No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Soccer Coaching News

Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Celtic vacancy

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born former Irish young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is this week.

"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."

McKenna agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Given his current position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Highlights

  • Kieran McKenna denies having talks with Celtic
  • McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
  • Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
  • Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
  • Bellamy not free until post tournament matches
Eddie Reed
Eddie Reed

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