No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his team's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had such discussions," the London-born former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged Ā£5m release 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 regardless!
"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'll always do my best as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is inclined to complete the current World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, should they not finish as Group J second place.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on international campaign
- Both managers connected with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers
