Zero McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.
Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Irish young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, should they not end up Group J second place.
Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with Celtic
- McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
- Each managers linked with Celtic vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup matches
