Unbowed Celtic's manager does not fear dismissal but the Parkhead faithful show fury after derby defeat.
The under-pressure manager insisted he was not afraid of the sack, asserting, “The team is very near to a turnaround,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a convincing setback against their arch-rivals.
Another Collapse Results in Derby Disaster
Celtic were ahead the visitors at the interval but a collapse after the break allowed the Gers to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired in December, has now presided over six defeats in his first eight fixtures.
“We are together at the club,” insisted the manager.
Pressed on his own future, he said: “That’s not my focus. I think about discovering solutions to help my team to be good on the fine details.
Fan Fury Erupts
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – towards the dugout and directors – by gathering at full time. The hierarchy would be most likely to re-appoint the interim manager, who steered the club during a caretaker period previously, if Nancy departs.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. However by saying this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. What I mean we are on the cusp, extremely close to change the narrative.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy highlights the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for poor finishing they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain objective.
“The level we had at times was of top quality. That is a fact. I wouldn't talk like that if it was not the case. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I feel a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Currently: the fine margins.”
“We produced many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. The issue now is sustaining it. My outlook would be different if it was not the case. Therefore I firmly believe the team can to get back on track.”
The Rangers Boss Outlook
Danny Röhl was cautious about a title charge despite what appeared to be a landmark win. “Step by step, so we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the group is excellent.”
