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Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team 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 twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a unique position here at a special team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

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

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up their group second place.

Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes having talks with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Each coaches linked with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament matches