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Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Agreement Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."

McKenna signed a new multi-year deal 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, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is minded to finish the current World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

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

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.

Given his present position, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each coaches connected with Celtic position
• Bellamy not free until after tournament matches