No McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" 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 consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

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

"I have a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."

McKenna agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

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

"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.

Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament matches