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

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

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

Background and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to finish the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.

Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any talks with Celtic
• The coach stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
• Each coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament qualifiers