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Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

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

"There have been such conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, 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 stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they not finish as Group J second place.

Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any talks with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
• Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup matches