Defiant Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about the sack but the Parkhead faithful show fury following derby defeat.
The Celtic boss declared he had no concerns about the sack, asserting, “I believe we are extremely close to a turnaround,” even after edging perilously close to the exit with a heavy setback against their arch-rivals.
Another Collapse Results in Derby Defeat
The Hoops had led the visitors at the break but a second-half capitulation allowed Rangers to draw level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was appointed in December, has now overseen six defeats in his first eight fixtures.
“There is unity with the board,” insisted the manager.
Asked directly about the speculation, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on discovering solutions to aid my players to excel on details.
Protest Outside Parkhead
Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – aimed at the dugout and directors – by gathering at full time. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to return to the former boss, who steered the club during a caretaker period last year, if Nancy departs.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. But when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Not at all. What I mean we are really close, imminently close to change the narrative.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy remains focused on the fact Celtic can perform strongly for one half at a time. For instance, but for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but it's important to stay objective.
“The standard we had at stages was of top quality. That happened. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. That is the reason, in terms of results, I said this is the same story. For that reason I believe we are really close to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: details, details, details.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. But now it’s about sustaining it. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. That’s why I am a big believer the team can to fix this.”
The Rangers Boss Response
Rangers manager refused to contemplate a title charge in spite of what felt like a huge result. “One match at a time, then we can develop momentum,” he said. “The faith in the team is outstanding.”