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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

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

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."

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 provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is minded to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Both coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until after tournament matches