No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales

Soccer Coaching Updates

Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to completing his team's World Cup campaign.

Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I possess a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Contractual Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."

The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Points

  • Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with Celtic
  • McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
  • Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament matches
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Rachel Johnson

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