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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had such conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a special position here at a special club. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is minded to complete the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.

Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup matches