Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."
The coach signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to complete the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to end up their group second place.
Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Kieran McKenna denies having talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
- Each coaches connected with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches