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

The Manager's Position on Celtic

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

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

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

"I have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."

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

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I understand 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 Position

The former striker represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition performance, even if they not finish as Group J second place.

Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
• Both coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until after tournament qualifiers