No McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had such discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is this week.
"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."
Context and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League performance, should they not finish as their group runners-up.
Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies any talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers
