Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position
Ipswich Town's their manager states he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.
Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on Monday.
The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Irish 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 focus is this week.
"I possess a special position here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as while I am here."
The Welsh Coach's Position
Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they not finish as their group runners-up.
Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
- McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
- Each managers linked with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches
