Bullish Wilfried Nancy does not fear dismissal however supporters display anger following defeat.
Wilfried Nancy stated he had no concerns about the sack, asserting, “The team is really close to changing our fortunes,” even after sliding worryingly close to the exit with a convincing loss to their arch-rivals.
Another Collapse Results in Derby Defeat
Celtic were ahead Rangers at half-time but a collapse after the break allowed Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in in December, has now presided over six setbacks in his first eight games.
“We are together with the board,” said Nancy.
Questioned about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old replied: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to aid my players to be good on details.
Protest Outside Parkhead
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – towards the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. The board are thought to be considering to bring back Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a temporary stint previously, should a change be made.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. Yet by saying this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am giving up. Absolutely not. The message is we are on the cusp, imminently close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy continues to cling to the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been more than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The level we had at certain moments was of top quality. This is the reality. I could not say that if it was different. That is the reason, in terms of results, I said this is the same story. For that reason I feel we are really close to things turning around. Right now: small things.”
“We produced plenty of positives that we did, like today again. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My message would not be if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am convinced we’re going to be able to fix this.”
Opposition Reaction Stance
Danny Röhl played down talk of a championship push despite what appeared to be a huge result. “We take it game by game, so we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The faith in the group is excellent.”
