🔗 Share this article

Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know 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 understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to end up their group second place.

Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each managers linked with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers