No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales

Football Managerial Updates

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy

The Championship club's their manager declares he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.

Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

The Manager's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.

"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to finish the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they not finish as their group second place.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Highlights

  • Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with Celtic
  • McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
  • Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament matches
Curtis Hunt
Curtis Hunt

A seasoned business strategist with over 15 years of experience in driving organizational success and innovation.