No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic manager position
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is committed to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is currently.
"I have a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition campaign, even if they not finish as their group second place.
Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
- Each coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches