No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.
"I have a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they not end up Group J runners-up.
Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with Celtic
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
- Both managers linked with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers