Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team

Football Coaching Updates

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to completing his squad's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

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

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

"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, should they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

  • Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
  • The coach stresses dedication to his current club
  • Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
  • Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
  • Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers
Tim Black
Tim Black

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