🔗 Share this article

Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such discussions," the English capital native former Irish young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

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

McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

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

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches