Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Commits to Wales

Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.

"I possess a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big football club."

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to finish the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, should they not finish as Group J second place.

Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with Celtic
• The coach stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches