No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized 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 English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international 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 focus is currently.
"I possess a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."
The coach signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to finish as Group J second place.
Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
- Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy not free until after World Cup matches
