No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is this week.

"I possess a special position here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

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

"I tackle this job like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on international campaign
• Both coaches linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until after tournament qualifiers