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Both have been linked 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 The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" 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 English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a special job here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

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

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

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J second place.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
• Each coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches