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

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were demoted back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

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 affinities," he said when asked about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a new four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."

Bellamy's Position

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

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they not end up Group J runners-up.

Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until after the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with Celtic
• The coach stresses commitment to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international campaign
• Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy not free until post World Cup matches