Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's their manager says he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to completing his squad's international campaign.
Both are being considered with the manager's job 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 referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."
The coach signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!
"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."
Bellamy's Position
Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as Group J second place.
Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
- Both coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches
