Defiant Wilfried Nancy shows no fear of the sack yet the Parkhead faithful show fury following loss.
The Celtic boss stated he did not fear the sack, claiming, “We are extremely close to a turnaround,” despite edging perilously close to being fired with a heavy loss to the Ibrox side.
Another Capitulation Leads to Derby Loss
The home side were in front the visitors at the interval but a collapse after the break allowed Rangers to pull level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six losses in eight games.
“We are together at the club,” insisted the manager.
Asked directly about whether he was concerned, Nancy responded: “That’s not my focus. I think about working out methods to aid my players to improve on details.
Protest Erupts
Celtic’s support voiced their fury – directed at the board and manager – in their hundreds outside the stadium. Club directors are reportedly likely to bring back Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. Yet in stating this is the reality, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. No. My point is we are really close, really, really close to reverse our form.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy remains focused on the fact Celtic play well for one half at a time. In fact, but for missed chances they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.
“The level we had at times was of top quality. That happened. I could not speak so positively if it was not the case. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that a change is coming to getting it right. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“We produced many, many good things that we did, like today again. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My outlook would not be if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am a big believer we will manage to turn things around.”
Opposition Reaction Response
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a title charge despite what appeared to be a huge result. “One match at a time, then we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the group is outstanding.”