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Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the current global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Both coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches