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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on Monday.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.

"I have a special job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Details

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

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

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

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the current global tournament qualification, a position 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 Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a productive European competition performance, should they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies having conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Each managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers