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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- 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 part of my focus is currently.

"I have a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

The coach signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

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

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to complete the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive European competition performance, should they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies having talks with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
• Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches