No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales
Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's their manager states he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to completing his team's international campaign.
Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.
The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years 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 12th in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.
"I have a special position here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."
Context and Agreement Aspects
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."
McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.
"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.
Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, should they not end up Group J second place.
Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with Celtic
- McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
- Both coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament matches
