Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 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 have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Agreement Aspects
Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."
McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up 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, thanks to a productive European competition performance, should they fail to end up Group J second place.
Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
- Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy not free until post tournament matches