Unbowed Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about dismissal yet supporters unleash anger following defeat.
The Celtic boss stated he was not afraid of dismissal, asserting, “The team is really close to changing our fortunes,” even after moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing defeat by their arch-rivals.
A Second-Half Collapse Results in Derby Disaster
Celtic were in front the visitors at the break but a collapse after the break let Rangers to move level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was appointed from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in eight matches.
“There is unity with the board,” said the manager.
Asked directly about whether he was concerned, Nancy responded: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on finding ways to get the team to improve on details.
Supporters' Anger On Display
Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – aimed at the board and manager – in their hundreds at full time. The board would be most likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful interim spell previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. Yet in stating this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. My point is we are on the cusp, imminently close to turn things around.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
He remains focused on the fact the side can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, were it not for missed chances they might have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The performance we had at certain moments was of top quality. This is the reality. I could not speak so positively if it was not the case. That is the reason, regarding outcomes, I said it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I feel we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: details, details, details.”
“There were plenty of positives that we did, like today again. But now is consistency. My narrative would change the same. That’s why I firmly believe the team can to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Response
The victorious boss refused to contemplate a championship push in spite of what appeared to be a statement victory. “We take it game by game, then we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the group is excellent.”