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Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international 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 possess a unique 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 McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

The coach signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

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

"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they not end up Group J second place.

Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
• Both coaches connected with Celtic position
• Bellamy not free until after World Cup qualifiers