No Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Soccer Coaching News

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

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna says he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his team's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had such discussions," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.

"I have a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that McKenna 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 all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."

The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they not end up their group runners-up.

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

Important Highlights

  • Kieran McKenna denies any talks with Celtic
  • McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
  • Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
  • Each managers connected with the Glasgow position
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament qualifiers
Jeremiah Butler
Jeremiah Butler

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