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Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international 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 this week.

"I possess a special job here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

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

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

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

"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J second place.

Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches