No McKenna Celtic Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player said when questioned 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 currently.

"I have a unique position here at a special team. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Contractual Details

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

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup 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 group toppers Belgium and runners-up 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 reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J second place.

Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches