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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is this week.

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

Background and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."

The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

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

Bellamy's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to finish the current World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

Wales are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup matches