🔗 Share this article

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

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I have a unique position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

The coach agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.

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

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager 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."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches