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

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants 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 assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, 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 the Championship.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born former Irish youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Aspects

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is inclined to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to finish as Group J second place.

Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches