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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched 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.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

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

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they not finish as Group J second place.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
• Bellamy not free until after World Cup qualifiers