Celtic: No Kieran McKenna talks as Craig Bellamy commits to Wales

It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to talking to Celtic, given his childhood commitment.

When asked about these, he said, “We all have affinities growing up.” “I don’t think everyone needs to go around explaining what happened but of course this is a really big football club.”

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

“Every manager has some things in his contract,” he replied. “I don’t know what mine is, and if I did I wouldn’t tell you anyway!

“I’m approaching this job as if I’ll be the Ipswich manager forever. I know it won’t always be the case but as long as I’m here I’ll always do my best.”

Bellamy joined Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales striker is looking to play out the current World Cup campaign, which would effectively prevent the 46-year-old from taking the Celtic job immediately.

Wales currently sit third in their qualifying group, behind leaders Belgium and second-place North Macedonia.

Victories against Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November will secure their place in the knockout play-offs, but even if they fail to finish second in Group J, they are almost certain to do so thanks to their successful Nations League campaign.

Given his current standing, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, will not be able to feature until after the play-offs at the earliest.