No McKenna Celtic Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to completing his team's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is this week.
"I have a special job here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."
Background and Agreement Details
Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."
McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.
Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
- Both managers connected with Celtic position
- Bellamy unavailable until after tournament matches
