Defiant Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about being fired however Celtic fans show fury after loss.
The under-pressure manager declared he did not fear the sack, claiming, “We are very near to things turning around,” even after moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to their arch-rivals.
Another Meltdown Results in Old Firm Loss
Celtic had led Rangers at the break but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to move level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in his first eight fixtures.
“We are together at the club,” said Nancy.
Asked directly about his own future, he responded: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on working out methods to aid my players to be good on small moments.
Protest Erupts
The fans displayed their anger – towards the board and manager – in their hundreds outside the stadium. Club directors would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. But in stating this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am giving up. Absolutely not. The message is we are really close, imminently close to reverse our form.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
Nancy continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. In fact, but for missed chances they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The performance we had at times was of top quality. That is a fact. I wouldn't talk like that if it was different. That is the reason, in terms of results, I said we've seen this before. Which is why I feel we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: the fine margins.”
“We produced many, many good things that we did, once more. However is sustaining it. My message would change if it was not the case. This is why I am a big believer the team can to turn things around.”
Opposition Reaction Response
The victorious boss refused to contemplate a title charge in spite of what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, and we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”