Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

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

The Manager's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is this week.

"I have a special job here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Contractual Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

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

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J second place.

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

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers