No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Soccer Coaching Updates

Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position

The Championship club's their manager says he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his team's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"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 remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, 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."

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

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

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

  • Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
  • Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
  • Bellamy unavailable until post tournament qualifiers
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