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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

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

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my concentration is currently.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Agreement Aspects

It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

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

The coach signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I approach this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they not finish as Group J second place.

Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Each managers connected with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup matches