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Both are being considered 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 The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

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

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is this week.

"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 Agreement Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

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

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

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

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

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with Celtic
• The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each coaches linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers