Unbowed Celtic's manager shows no fear of the sack however the Parkhead faithful display anger after defeat.

Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear dismissal, asserting, “We are really close to a turnaround,” in the wake of edging perilously close to the exit with a comprehensive defeat by the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Derby Disaster

Celtic were ahead the visitors at half-time but a second-half capitulation allowed the Gers to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was hired from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six setbacks in eight matches.

“The board and I are united at the club,” stated Nancy.

Pressed on whether he was concerned, Nancy said: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to aid my players to improve on details.

Supporters' Anger On Display

The fans made their feelings clear – towards the hierarchy – by gathering at Parkhead. The board would be most likely to bring back the interim manager, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. No. My point is we are on the cusp, extremely close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He remains focused on the fact his team show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, were it not for poor finishing they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The standard we had at times was exceptionally high. This is the reality. And I would not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I believe we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Currently: details, details, details.”

“I saw plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. However is consistency. My narrative would change if I didn't believe it. Therefore I firmly believe we will manage to turn things around.”

Röhl’s Cautious Response

Rangers manager played down talk of a championship push despite what seemed like a huge result. “One match at a time, then we can really build up something here,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is outstanding.”

Kenneth Bell
Kenneth Bell

A tech strategist and writer passionate about digital transformation and emerging technologies.