Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League 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 presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group runners-up.
Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Each managers connected with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until after tournament matches