Bullish Wilfried Nancy does not fear being fired however supporters show fury following defeat.
The under-pressure manager insisted he had no concerns about the sack, claiming, “I believe we are very near to a turnaround,” even after sliding worryingly close to being fired with a heavy setback against the Ibrox side.
Another Capitulation Leads to Derby Defeat
Celtic had led the visitors at half-time but a collapse after the break allowed the Gers to move level on points with the reigning league title holders. Nancy, who was brought in in December, has now been in charge for six setbacks in eight games.
“The board and I are united at the club,” said Nancy.
Pressed on the speculation, the 48-year-old said: “It’s not on my mind. I concentrate on discovering solutions to get the team to improve on the fine details.
Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead
Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – directed at the dugout and directors – by protesting outside the stadium. The board are reportedly likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. Yet by saying this is the reality, I am not saying that I am giving up. Not at all. The message is we are really close, extremely close to change the narrative.”
“Really, Really Close”
The coach continues to cling to the fact Celtic play well for a half at a time. Indeed, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The standard we had at certain moments was of top quality. That happened. I could not speak so positively if it was different. Therefore, in terms of results, I mentioned we've seen this before. For that reason I feel a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: small things.”
“There were plenty of positives that we did, once more. But now it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be if I didn't believe it. Therefore I firmly believe we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Opposition Reaction Outlook
Rangers manager refused to contemplate a championship push in spite of what seemed like a landmark win. “One match at a time, so we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The confidence in the team is outstanding.”
