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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

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

Background and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

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

"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

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

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J second place.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers