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Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on Monday.

The Manager's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had such discussions," the English capital native former Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

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

"I possess a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

The coach signed a fresh multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

Wales are currently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a successful European competition campaign, even if they fail to end up Group J second place.

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

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager refutes having conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
• Each coaches connected with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach not free until after tournament qualifiers