No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player 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 currently.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare 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 buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, should they not end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Both managers linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy not free until after tournament qualifiers