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Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager'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 mid-thirties 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 season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is currently.

"I have a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, 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 new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

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

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is minded to complete the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament qualifiers