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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had such conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a massive football club."

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

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the ongoing global tournament qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

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

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they not end up their group runners-up.

Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Each managers connected with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament qualifiers