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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I have a special job here at a special team. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked 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."

The coach signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

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

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

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

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as their group second place.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies having talks with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Both managers linked with Celtic position
• The Welsh coach not free until post World Cup qualifiers