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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.

"I have a unique position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything external hasn't touched my radar."

Context and Agreement Details

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

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big football club."

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

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

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

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is inclined to finish the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, should they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Considering his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would not be available until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
• Both managers linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy not free until post tournament qualifiers