Unbowed Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about dismissal but supporters unleash wrath following loss.
The under-pressure manager stated he did not fear losing his job, claiming, “We are extremely close to changing our fortunes,” even after moving dangerously close to the exit with a convincing loss to the Ibrox side.
A Second-Half Collapse Leads to Derby Disaster
The Hoops were in front the visitors at half-time but a second-half capitulation let Rangers to move level on points with the defending league title holders. Nancy, who was brought in in December, has now been in charge for six setbacks in his last eight fixtures.
“We are together at the club,” stated Nancy.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, Nancy replied: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on working out methods to aid my players to excel on the fine details.
Supporters' Anger Erupts
Celtic’s support voiced their fury – towards the board and manager – in their hundreds at Parkhead. The board are thought to be considering to re-appoint the interim manager, who had a fruitful interim spell before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. However by saying that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. No. What I mean the turnaround is near, really, really close to turn things around.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
The coach highlights the fact the side play well for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, if not for poor finishing they would have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The standard we had at certain moments was of top quality. This is the reality. I could not speak so positively if it was different. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I mentioned we've seen this before. Which is why I feel a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Right now: small things.”
“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. But now it’s about consistency. My message would change the same. That’s why I am a big believer we will manage to fix this.”
Opposition Reaction Stance
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a championship push in spite of what seemed like a huge result. “Step by step, so we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The confidence in the team is immense.”