No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is dedicated to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"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 given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I have a unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial 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 boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."
McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, even if they not finish as their group runners-up.
Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager denies having talks with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Each managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers