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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

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

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland 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 concentration is this week.

"I possess a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

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

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

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

"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

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

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.

Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches