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

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had such conversations," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I have a unique position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

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

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this role like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always 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 Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

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

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not end up their group second place.

Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having talks with Celtic
• The coach stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament matches