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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is currently.

"I possess a unique job here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

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

"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament qualifiers