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Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had such conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

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

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition campaign, even if they not finish as Group J second place.

Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both managers linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers