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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years 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 Championship and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition performance, should they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
• Both coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches