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Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

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

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"There have been such discussions," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I have a special job here at a special club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Details

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

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

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

"I approach this job like I'll be Town's coach forever. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

Wales are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind leaders the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League campaign, should they not finish as Group J runners-up.

Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with Celtic
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both managers linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy not free until post World Cup qualifiers