No Kieran McKenna Celtic Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years 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 relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a unique job 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."

Background and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release 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 approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

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

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.

Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
• Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament qualifiers