Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
Ipswich Town's their manager says he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach the former striker is dedicated to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.
Both have been linked with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.
The Manager's Stance on Celtic
McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.
The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.
"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Northern Ireland youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my concentration is this week.
"I have a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."
Background and Contractual Aspects
It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.
"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."
McKenna signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported buyout clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!
"I approach this role 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 remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to finish the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed Macedonia.
Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of making those, due to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to end up their group second place.
Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.
Key Highlights
- Ipswich's manager refutes any talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
- Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
- Both managers connected with Celtic position
- The Welsh coach unavailable until after World Cup qualifiers
