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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

The Manager's Position on Celtic

McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

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

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

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

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

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

"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know 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

Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is minded to complete 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 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 virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international qualification
• Each managers connected with the Glasgow position
• Bellamy not free until after tournament qualifiers