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

The Manager's Position on Celtic

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I possess a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Contractual Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach 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."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales striker is inclined to finish the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a productive European competition performance, even if they not end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his present position, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna stresses commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Both coaches linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches