🔗 Share this article Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is committed to completing his team's international campaign. Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week. McKenna's Stance on Celtic The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town. The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship. "There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist. "This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently. "I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness." Background and Contractual Aspects Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances. "Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization." The coach signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged buyout clause. "In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway! "I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here." The Welsh Coach's Situation The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job. Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia. Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, even if they not finish as Group J runners-up. Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest. Important Highlights Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with Celtic McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign Each managers linked with Celtic vacancy Bellamy not free until post World Cup matches