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

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

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

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

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

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

"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they not finish as their group second place.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers