Unbowed Wilfried Nancy shows no fear of the sack but Celtic fans display anger following loss.
The Celtic boss declared he had no concerns about losing his job, maintaining, “I believe we are extremely close to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to the Ibrox side.
Another Capitulation Results in Old Firm Disaster
The Hoops had led the visitors at the interval but a second-half capitulation let the Gers to draw level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was hired in December, has now overseen six losses in eight matches.
“There is unity at the club,” said Nancy.
Asked directly about the speculation, Nancy replied: “It’s not on my mind. I think about discovering solutions to help my team to be good on the fine details.
Protest Erupts
The fans displayed their anger – directed at the hierarchy – by gathering outside the stadium. Club directors would be most likely to bring back Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a caretaker period before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. My point is we are really close, imminently close to turn things around.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
He highlights the fact his team play well for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, were it not for missed chances they could have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be objective.
“The standard we had at stages was really, really, really high. That happened. I wouldn't talk like that if it was untrue. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I feel we are nearly there to getting it right. Currently: details, details, details.”
“We produced plenty of positives that we did, like today again. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be if I didn't believe it. This is why I firmly believe the team can to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Outlook
The victorious boss was cautious about a championship push in spite of what felt like a statement victory. “We take it game by game, and we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The belief in the squad is outstanding.”