Bullish Celtic's manager shows no fear of the sack yet supporters display anger following loss.
Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “The team is really close to a turnaround,” even after moving dangerously close to the chopping block with a convincing defeat by their arch-rivals.
A Second-Half Capitulation Leads to Old Firm Defeat
Celtic were ahead their oldest rivals at the interval but a second-half capitulation allowed the Gers to draw level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in his last eight fixtures.
“There is unity at the club,” stated Nancy.
Questioned about his own future, Nancy said: “That’s not my focus. I think about discovering solutions to get the team to excel on small moments.
Supporters' Anger On Display
Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – directed at the dugout and directors – by gathering at full time. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to re-appoint the former boss, who had a fruitful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. But by saying that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am giving up. No. What I mean the turnaround is near, extremely close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
He continues to cling to the fact the side can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, if not for missed chances they could have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The level we had at times was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I could not say that if it was not the case. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I mentioned we've seen this before. For that reason I feel we are nearly there to getting it right. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“There were many, many good things that we did, once more. But now is consistency. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer we will manage to turn things around.”
The Rangers Boss Stance
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a title charge in spite of what felt like a statement victory. “One match at a time, so we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the team is outstanding.”