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Each have been linked with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, 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.

"I have not had such conversations," the London-born ex- Irish young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

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

"I have a special position here at a special club. And we're at a really important phase of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Contractual Aspects

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a massive football club."

The coach agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

Bellamy's Situation

The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is inclined to complete the current global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, should they not end up Group J runners-up.

Given his present position, Bellamy, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Important Points

• Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
• Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
• Bellamy not free until post tournament matches