Defiant Celtic's manager shows no fear of dismissal but supporters show fury following derby defeat.
The Celtic boss stated he did not fear the sack, claiming, “The team is very near to changing our fortunes,” despite sliding worryingly close to being fired with a heavy defeat by the Ibrox side.
A Second-Half Meltdown Leads to Old Firm Disaster
The Hoops were in front the visitors at the break but a second-half capitulation let Rangers to pull level on points with the current league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was hired from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in eight fixtures.
“We are together at the club,” stated Nancy.
Questioned about the speculation, he replied: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on discovering solutions to get the team to be good on small moments.
Protest On Display
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – towards the dugout and directors – by protesting at Parkhead. Club directors would be most likely to bring back the interim manager, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. But by saying that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. What I mean we are on the cusp, really, really close to change the narrative.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
Nancy highlights the fact Celtic show good levels for one half at a time. Indeed, but for poor finishing they could have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain objective.
“The standard we had at stages was of top quality. That is a fact. I could not talk like that if it was untrue. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I said this is the same story. For that reason I feel we are really close to getting it right. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“We produced plenty of positives that we did, once more. But now is consistency. My outlook would change if I didn't believe it. Therefore I am convinced we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Response
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a title charge despite what felt like a landmark win. “We take it game by game, then we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”
