🔗 Share this article

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on Monday.

The Manager's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road 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 the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Details

It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, should they fail to end up their group second place.

Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both managers linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches