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

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked 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 special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Agreement Aspects

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

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this role like I will remain Town's coach 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 Situation

Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

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

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
• Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament matches