No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Football Coaching News

Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic vacancy

Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his team's international campaign.

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

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them 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 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked 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 unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."

McKenna agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they not finish as their group second place.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

  • Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach stresses dedication to his current club
  • Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
  • Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
  • The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers
Stephanie Jones
Stephanie Jones

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