🔗 Share this article

Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

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

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those discussions," the English capital native former Irish young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is minded to finish the ongoing global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

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

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, even if they fail to end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his current position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
• Each managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament matches