Bullish Celtic's manager shows no fear of dismissal however the Parkhead faithful unleash anger after derby defeat.
Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear the sack, claiming, “We are very near to things turning around,” despite edging perilously close to the exit with a comprehensive setback against Rangers.
Another Capitulation Sees Old Firm Disaster
Celtic were in front the visitors at the break but a disastrous second period let Rangers to draw level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in eight fixtures.
“We are together with the board,” said the manager.
Asked directly about the speculation, the 48-year-old replied: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to aid my players to excel on small moments.
Supporters' Anger Erupts
Hundreds of supporters made their feelings clear – towards the board and manager – by protesting at Parkhead. The board are reportedly likely to bring back the interim manager, who had a fruitful temporary stint last year, if Nancy departs.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. No. My point is the turnaround is near, really, really close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy remains focused on the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for poor finishing they could have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives except the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but it's important to stay balanced.
“The performance we had at stages was exceptionally high. That is a fact. And I would not talk like that if it was different. But that’s why, in terms of results, I mentioned we've seen this before. For that reason I said that we are nearly there to things turning around. Right now: small things.”
“We produced many, many good things that we did, once more. But now it’s about sustaining it. My message would change the same. That’s why I firmly believe the team can to turn things around.”
The Rangers Boss Outlook
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a title charge despite what felt like a huge result. “We take it game by game, and we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is outstanding.”
