Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

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

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is currently.

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

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

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

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

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

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they not end up their group runners-up.

Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
• Each managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers