No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his team's international campaign.
Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.
"I have not had such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is this week.
"I have a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."
Context and Agreement Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as while I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, should they fail to finish as Group J second place.
Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
- Wales' manager focused on international campaign
- Both coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament matches
