Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's their manager declares he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to completing his team's international campaign.
Both are being considered 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 The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.
"I possess a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."
The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the current World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they not end up their group runners-up.
Given his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Important Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Each managers connected with Celtic position
- Bellamy not free until after World Cup qualifiers