🔗 Share this article

Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, 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.

"There have been any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Details

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

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently 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 assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, should they not end up Group J second place.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with Celtic
• The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
• Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy unavailable until post tournament qualifiers