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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games 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 young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

The coach agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, 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 forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J second place.

Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
• Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches