Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Soccer Coaching News

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

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his team's World Cup campaign.

Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years 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 12th in the Championship.

"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native former Irish 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 portion of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big football club."

McKenna agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

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

"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

  • Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with Celtic
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
  • Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
  • Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament matches
Gary Grimes
Gary Grimes

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