Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Soccer Coaching Updates

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Scottish champions vacancy

Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

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

"I possess a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

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

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not end up Group J second place.

Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

  • Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
  • Each coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches
Ana Patel
Ana Patel

A seasoned entertainment journalist with a passion for uncovering the latest celebrity scoops and trends.