Unbowed Wilfried Nancy shows no fear of dismissal however supporters show anger following derby defeat.
The under-pressure manager stated he did not fear the sack, claiming, “We are really close to a turnaround,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a convincing defeat by Rangers.
A Second-Half Collapse Leads to Old Firm Loss
Celtic were in front the visitors at the interval but a second-half capitulation enabled the Gers to draw level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired from the MLS, has now been in charge for six setbacks in his last eight matches.
“We are together with the board,” said the manager.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, Nancy replied: “That’s not my focus. I think about working out methods to aid my players to be good on details.
Supporters' Anger On Display
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – aimed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at Parkhead. The board would be most likely to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful caretaker period before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. But in stating this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. No. The message is we are on the cusp, extremely close to change the narrative.”
Focus on the Details
The coach remains focused on the fact his team play well for one half at a time. In fact, if not for missed chances they could have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be fair.
“The performance we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That happened. And I would not speak so positively if it was different. But that’s why, in terms of results, I noted this is the same story. That’s why I said that we are nearly there to getting it right. But for the moment: small things.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. However is sustaining it. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. Therefore I am convinced we’re going to be able to fix this.”
Opposition Reaction Outlook
Rangers manager played down talk of a championship push despite what appeared to be a landmark win. “We take it game by game, so we can develop momentum,” he said. “The belief in the squad is outstanding.”
