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Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the English capital native former 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 part of my concentration is currently.

"I have a special job here at a special team. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported £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 disclose you regardless!

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

Bellamy's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Both managers linked with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches