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

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"There have been any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

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

Background and Agreement Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big football club."

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

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

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not finish as their group second place.

Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
• Both coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy not free until after tournament qualifiers