🔗 Share this article

The Celtic boss declared he was not afraid of losing his job, maintaining, “The team is really close to things turning around,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a heavy defeat by the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Collapse Sees Derby Loss

Celtic were in front the visitors at half-time but a disastrous second period allowed the Gers to pull level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was hired in December, has now been in charge for six losses in eight games.

“We are together with the board,” insisted Nancy.

Pressed on his own future, he said: “That’s not my focus. I think about finding ways to aid my players to be good on small moments.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

The fans made their feelings clear – aimed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. Club directors would be most likely to return to the former boss, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. However when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. No. My point is the turnaround is near, imminently close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

Nancy continues to cling to the fact the side can perform strongly for a half at a time. For instance, but for missed chances they would have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but it's important to stay objective.

“The performance we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That happened. I wouldn't talk like that if it was different. But that’s why, in terms of results, I said this is the same story. For that reason I believe a change is coming to things turning around. Currently: small things.”

“We produced many, many good things that we did, like today again. The issue now is consistency. My narrative would change if it was not the case. This is why I firmly believe we will manage to fix this.”

Röhl’s Cautious Response

Rangers manager refused to contemplate a serious challenge in spite of what appeared to be a landmark win. “One match at a time, then we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”