No Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
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 Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.
McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, 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 the Championship.
"There have been such conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Agreement Details
It has been suggested 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 asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.
Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they not end up their group second place.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Points
- Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with Celtic
- The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on international qualification
- Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers