No McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team

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

The Manager's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born 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 have a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Agreement Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

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

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

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, should they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
• Both coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers