Kieran McKenna Addresses Celtic Speculation Amid Ipswich Commitment
Kieran McKenna has acknowledged Celtic as "a really big football club," but he emphasized that he has had "no conversations" with the Scottish champions. He reiterated his commitment to a "long-term project" at Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old London-born former Northern Ireland youth international has been linked to the managerial position at Celtic following the resignation of Brendan Rodgers earlier this week.
Since taking the helm at Ipswich in 2021, McKenna has successfully led the team to the Premier League after achieving back-to-back promotions. However, the team has struggled upon their return to the Championship, currently sitting in 12th place.
When questioned about being a candidate for the Celtic job, McKenna stated, "I have not had any of those conversations." He added, "It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is this week. I have a special job here at a special club, and we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn’t touched my radar."
Speculation has arisen suggesting that McKenna might be open to discussions with Celtic due to his childhood loyalties. Addressing these ties, he remarked, "Growing up, we all have our affinities. I don’t think everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it’s a really big football club."
McKenna, who signed a new four-year contract in 2024, was also asked about his reported £5 million release clause. He responded, "In every manager’s contract, there are things. I don’t know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn’t tell you anyway!"
He concluded by stating, "I approach this job like I’ll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that’s not always going to be the case, but I’ll always do my best as long as I am here."