Bullish Wilfried Nancy does not fear being fired but supporters display fury after defeat.
The Celtic boss declared he did not fear losing his job, claiming, “The team is really close to a turnaround,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to being fired with a comprehensive setback against their arch-rivals.
A Second-Half Meltdown Results in Derby Disaster
The Hoops were ahead their oldest rivals at the break but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to draw level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six setbacks in his first eight matches.
“There is unity at the club,” stated the manager.
Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old responded: “It’s not on my mind. I think about finding ways to get the team to improve on details.
Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead
Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – aimed at the hierarchy – by protesting at Parkhead. The board are reportedly likely to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. However when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. My point is the turnaround is near, extremely close to change the narrative.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy highlights the fact Celtic can perform strongly for a half at a time. Indeed, but for missed chances they would have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we didn't take a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be fair.
“The standard we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. This is the reality. I could not speak so positively if it was different. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I mentioned we've seen this before. That’s why I said that a change is coming to getting it right. Right now: details, details, details.”
“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. The issue now it’s about consistency. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. This is why I am convinced the team can to fix this.”
The Rangers Boss Stance
Danny Röhl was cautious about a championship push in spite of what felt like a huge result. “One match at a time, so we can develop something here,” he said. “The belief in the group is immense.”