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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

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

Background and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, 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 agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to finish the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J second place.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers