No McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Celtic vacancy
The Championship club's their manager states he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club
The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.
The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.
"I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."
Context and Contractual Aspects
It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."
The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!
"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."
Bellamy's Situation
The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.
Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to end up Group J runners-up.
Given his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Points
- Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
- The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
- Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
- Bellamy not free until post tournament matches
