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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

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is currently.

"I have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly 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.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales striker is minded to complete the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they not finish as their group second place.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Both coaches connected with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches