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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only 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.

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

"I possess a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up 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 assured of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up their group second place.

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

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Each managers connected with the Glasgow position
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament qualifiers