Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

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

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

The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

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

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

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having talks with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
• Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup matches