Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
The Championship club's their manager says he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to completing his team's international campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
The Manager's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"I have not had such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.
"I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not finish as Group J second place.
Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
- Both coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers
