Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's their manager says he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight 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 12th in England's second tier.
"There have been such discussions," the London-born former 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 possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."
Context and Contractual Details
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 asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."
McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I am here."
Bellamy's Position
The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they not finish as their group second place.
Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Important Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
- The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
- Both coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
- Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers
