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

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had 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 given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Agreement Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while 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 forward is inclined to complete the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not end up their group second place.

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

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
• Both coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament matches