No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team

Soccer Managerial News

Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.

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

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland 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 part of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"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 used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."

McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded 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 currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, should they not end up Group J runners-up.

Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

  • Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with Celtic
  • McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
  • Both managers connected with the Glasgow position
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament qualifiers
Sara Gates
Sara Gates

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