Zero McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
The Manager'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 "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.
"There have been such conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Contractual Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be 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 am here."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to finish as their group runners-up.
Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Both coaches linked with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers
