No McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.
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.
The Manager's Position on Celtic
The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been such conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."
Background and Contractual Details
It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna agreed to a fresh 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, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."
Bellamy's Situation
Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.
Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they fail to end up their group second place.
Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with Celtic
- McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
- Both coaches connected with the Glasgow position
- Bellamy not free until post tournament matches