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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

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

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the English capital native former Irish young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is this week.

"I have a unique job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Agreement 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 affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales striker is inclined to complete the current global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

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

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

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any talks with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
• Both coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches