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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich 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 presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native 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 part of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."

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 things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach'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 global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they not finish as Group J second place.

Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any talks with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup matches