No McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Soccer Managerial Updates

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Celtic vacancy

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.

Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division 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 young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big football club."

The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract 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, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, even if they not end up Group J runners-up.

Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Highlights

  • Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with Celtic
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
  • Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
  • Each managers connected with the Glasgow position
  • The Welsh coach not free until after tournament matches
Juan Romero
Juan Romero

Elara is a seasoned betting analyst with over a decade of experience in sports journalism and online gaming insights.

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