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Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is this week.

"I possess a unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach signed a new multi-year deal in last year 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 anyway!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition campaign, even if they not finish as their group runners-up.

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

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until after tournament qualifiers