No Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native 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 portion of my concentration is this week.
"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Background and Agreement Aspects
It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is inclined to complete the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J second place.
Given his current position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
- The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers