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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

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

Context and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

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

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, should they not end up their group runners-up.

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

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
• Both coaches linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers