Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is committed to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.
"I have a special job here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."
Background and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not end up Group J second place.
Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Both coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers