Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Football Coaching Updates

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

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna says he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team 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 twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had such conversations," the London-born former Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.

"I have a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything external hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."

The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

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

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to finish as Group J second place.

Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

  • Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with the Scottish club
  • McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
  • Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
  • Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers
Steven Scott
Steven Scott

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