No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I have a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Agreement Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."

The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a productive European competition performance, even if they fail to end up their group second place.

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

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
• The coach stresses dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on international campaign
• Both coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches