No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had such discussions," the London-born former 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 focus is this week.
"I have a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Background and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."
The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they not finish as their group runners-up.
Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Both coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy not free until after tournament qualifiers