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Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight 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 presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

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

Context and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."

The coach agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

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

Victories over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful Nations League campaign, should they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies any talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
• Each managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers