Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Football Managerial Updates

Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born former Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big 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 things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they not end up their group runners-up.

Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

  • Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with the Scottish club
  • The coach stresses commitment to his current club
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
  • Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
  • The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches
Tammy Harding
Tammy Harding

Elara Vance is a tech journalist and software developer with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital innovations.