Unbowed Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about being fired however supporters show wrath following derby defeat.
The under-pressure manager stated he was not afraid of dismissal, claiming, “We are very near to a turnaround,” in the wake of edging perilously close to being fired with a comprehensive loss to Rangers.
Another Meltdown Results in Old Firm Disaster
Celtic were ahead the visitors at the interval but a disastrous second period allowed Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the defending league title holders. The French coach, who was brought in in December, has now overseen six losses in eight games.
“We are together at the club,” stated the manager.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, Nancy responded: “I don’t think about it. I think about finding ways to help my team to excel on the fine details.
Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead
The fans displayed their anger – towards the board and manager – by protesting at full time. The hierarchy are thought to be considering to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a interim spell before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. But by saying that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Not at all. What I mean we are on the cusp, really, really close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy remains focused on the fact Celtic play well for a half at a time. Indeed, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be objective.
“The performance we had at certain moments was of top quality. This is the reality. And I would not say that if it was different. But that’s why, in terms of results, I said it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I said that a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Right now: details, details, details.”
“I saw plenty of positives that we did, like today again. However it’s about consistency. My outlook would not be if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am convinced we’re going to be able to fix this.”
Röhl’s Cautious Stance
Rangers manager refused to contemplate a serious challenge in spite of what appeared to be a landmark win. “One match at a time, so we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The faith in the team is excellent.”