No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Soccer Managerial Updates

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh national team manager Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

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

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just 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.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I have a special job here at a special team. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

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

"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they not finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

  • Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach stresses commitment to his current club
  • Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
  • Each managers linked with Celtic vacancy
  • The Welsh coach not free until after tournament matches
Robin Singh
Robin Singh

A professional poker player and coach with over a decade of experience in tournaments and cash games.