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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control 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 relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had such conversations," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.

"I have a unique position here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

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

McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
• Each managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers