No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position
The Championship club's their manager declares he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I have a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Contractual Aspects
It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Situation
The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to end up Group J runners-up.
Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers