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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I have a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

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

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as their group second place.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on international qualification
• Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers