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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those discussions," 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 portion of my concentration is this week.

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

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

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

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, even if they fail to end up their group second place.

Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both coaches linked with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches