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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

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

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

Context and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

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

The coach agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to finish the current global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J second place.

Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies having talks with Celtic
• The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on international qualification
• Each managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers