Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Soccer Managerial News

Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is currently.

"I have a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."

The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned 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 role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, should they not finish as Group J second place.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

  • Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
  • McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
  • Both managers linked with Celtic position
  • Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers
Scott Ross
Scott Ross

A passionate gamer and content creator with years of experience in competitive gaming and strategy development.