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Wilfried Nancy stated he did not fear losing his job, claiming, “We are extremely close to things turning around,” despite sliding worryingly close to being fired with a convincing loss to Rangers.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Derby Defeat

Celtic were in front their oldest rivals at the break but a disastrous second period let Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six setbacks in his first eight matches.

“There is unity at the club,” said the manager.

Questioned about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old replied: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on finding ways to get the team to excel on details.

Fan Fury Outside Parkhead

Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – directed at the dugout and directors – by protesting at full time. The hierarchy would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful interim spell previously, if Nancy departs.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am giving up. Not at all. What I mean we are really close, really, really close to reverse our form.”

“Really, Really Close”

The coach remains focused on the fact the side can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, but for poor finishing they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we didn't take a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain objective.

“The standard we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That happened. And I would not talk like that if it was untrue. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I said it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that we are really close to things turning around. Currently: small things.”

“We produced many, many good things that we did, like today again. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My message would not be if it was not the case. That’s why I am convinced the team can to turn things around.”

Röhl’s Cautious Response

The victorious boss played down talk of a serious challenge in spite of what felt like a huge result. “One match at a time, then we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the squad is outstanding.”