Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Soccer Managerial News

Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic vacancy

The Championship club's their manager declares he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.

Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is this week.

"I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Background and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach forever. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is minded to complete the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive European competition performance, even if they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Highlights

  • Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
  • Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
  • Bellamy not free until after World Cup matches
Angela Farmer
Angela Farmer

A certified wellness coach with over a decade of experience in holistic health, passionate about helping others achieve inner peace and vitality.