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

The Manager's Position on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

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

"I have a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "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 indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in 2005, but the former Wales striker is minded to finish the ongoing World Cup qualification, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

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

Wins over the minnows and North Macedonia in next month would secure their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League performance, should they not end up their group runners-up.

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

Key Highlights

• Ipswich's manager denies any talks with Celtic
• The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
• Wales' manager focused on international qualification
• Both managers connected with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers