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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 described the Glasgow giants as "a really big 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 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish 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 possess a unique position here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched 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.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," 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 will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to complete the current World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, should they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
• Both coaches connected with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup qualifiers