No McKenna Celtic Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales

Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

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

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"I have not had such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland 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 focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

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

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they not end up their group runners-up.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy not free until post World Cup qualifiers