No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team

Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, 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.

"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I have a unique job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

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

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I tackle this role like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they fail to end up their group second place.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers