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

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I possess a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."

McKenna agreed to a new multi-year deal in last year and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

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

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of making those, due to a productive European competition campaign, even if they not finish as Group J second place.

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

Important Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with Celtic
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on World Cup qualification
• Each coaches connected with Celtic vacancy
• Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers