Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales

Football Coaching Updates

Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to completing 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.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized 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 won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is this week.

"I have a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Contractual Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

The coach signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release 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 role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to complete the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J second place.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

  • Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
  • Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
  • Both coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
  • Bellamy not free until post World Cup matches
Marissa Miller
Marissa Miller

A passionate tech journalist and gamer with over a decade of experience covering emerging trends and innovations.