No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control 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 season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release 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 tell you regardless!

"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they not finish as Group J runners-up.

Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with Celtic
• The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament qualifiers