No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Football Managerial News

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

The Championship club's their manager says he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player 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 possess a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."

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

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

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as while 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 Wales striker is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

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

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, even if they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Highlights

  • Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
  • Both coaches connected with Celtic position
  • Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches
Susan Baker
Susan Baker

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