Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I have a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Contractual Aspects
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."
The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 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, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to complete the current World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as their group runners-up.
Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
- The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
- Both coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy unavailable until post tournament qualifiers