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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on Celtic

McKenna described 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 took charge of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is minded to complete the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they not end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers