No McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic manager position
The Championship club's their manager states he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is committed to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.
Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Position on Celtic
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I have a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, 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.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is minded to complete the current global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.
Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
- Both coaches connected with Celtic position
- Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers
