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Each have been linked with the coaching position 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 referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

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

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

Context and Contractual Details

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £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 anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing 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 leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup campaign
• Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches