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Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Position on Celtic

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

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

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

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

Context and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to complete the ongoing World Cup qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and North Macedonia in November would secure their place 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 finish as Group J runners-up.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
• Each managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches