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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" 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 won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a special job here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached 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 affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive European competition performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.

Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup qualification
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow position
• Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup matches