🔗 Share this article

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

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

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

Context and Agreement 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 questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

The coach agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, even if they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on international qualification
• Each coaches connected with Celtic position
• Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers