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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland 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 currently.

"I have a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I approach this role like I will remain 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 am here."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Given his current position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
• Each managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament qualifiers