No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's their manager says he has had "no conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to completing his team's international campaign.
Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those 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 part of my concentration is currently.
"I have a unique position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories 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, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up Group J second place.
Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers
