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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a special job 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."

Background and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."

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

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

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

The Welsh Coach's Situation

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

The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a productive Nations League performance, should they fail to end up Group J second place.

Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with Celtic
• The coach stresses dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches