Defiant Wilfried Nancy does not fear being fired yet Celtic fans display wrath following derby defeat.
The under-pressure manager declared he had no concerns about dismissal, asserting, “We are extremely close to things turning around,” despite sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a heavy loss to Rangers.
A Second-Half Collapse Results in Old Firm Loss
Celtic had led the visitors at half-time but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to pull level on points with the reigning league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was appointed in December, has now overseen six defeats in eight games.
“We are together with the board,” insisted Nancy.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old responded: “It’s not on my mind. I concentrate on finding ways to aid my players to improve on small moments.
Fan Fury Outside Parkhead
The fans displayed their anger – directed at the board and manager – by protesting at Parkhead. Club directors would be most likely to re-appoint the interim manager, who steered the club during a interim spell previously, should a change be made.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the truth for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. Not at all. The message is we are on the cusp, imminently close to turn things around.”
Focus on the Details
Nancy continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they could have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay objective.
“The standard we had at times was of top quality. This is the reality. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. But now it’s about sustaining it. My outlook would be different if I didn't believe it. That’s why I firmly believe we will manage to fix this.”
Opposition Reaction Stance
Danny Röhl was cautious about a title charge despite what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, then we can gradually build something here,” he said. “The belief in the squad is excellent.”