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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" 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 managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

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

Context and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."

The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to finish the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

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

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a successful European competition performance, even if they not end up Group J runners-up.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Both managers linked with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup matches