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Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" 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 back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had such conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Contractual Aspects

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

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout 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 tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is minded to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are currently third in their qualifying group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they not finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Highlights

• Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
• Both managers linked with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy not free until post World Cup matches