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Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" 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 a handful of victories last season as they were demoted back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

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

"I have a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Everything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Contractual Details

Reports indicate that the manager 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 all people has to publicly and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna signed a new multi-year deal in last year and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

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

The Welsh Coach's Position

Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is minded to complete the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, even if they not finish as their group second place.

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

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
• Both managers connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy not free until post World Cup matches