Zero McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich 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 Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up Group J second place.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament qualifiers