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

Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

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

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in 2021 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 second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is this week.

"I have a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

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

"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each coaches connected with the Glasgow position
• Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers