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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born former Irish 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 have a special job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk 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 declare what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

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

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they not end up Group J second place.

Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each managers connected with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers