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Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

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

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

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

Context and Contractual 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 preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive football club."

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

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive Nations League performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
• Both coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers