No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic manager position
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both 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 the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had such discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is this week.
"I possess a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that McKenna 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 everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand 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 Position
Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a productive European competition campaign, even if they not end up Group J runners-up.
Given his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with Celtic
- McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
- Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers
