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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years 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 currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

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

"I possess a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't reached my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

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

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with Celtic
• The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
• Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers