Defiant Celtic's manager shows no fear of the sack but supporters display anger after defeat.
The under-pressure manager insisted he did not fear dismissal, maintaining, “The team is very near to changing our fortunes,” despite sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a heavy loss to their arch-rivals.
Another Capitulation Sees Old Firm Defeat
The home side were in front Rangers at the interval but a second-half capitulation allowed the Gers to pull level on points with the reigning league title holders. The French coach, who was appointed from the MLS, has now overseen six losses in his last eight matches.
“We are together at the club,” insisted the manager.
Questioned about his own future, Nancy responded: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on discovering solutions to get the team to improve on small moments.
Supporters' Anger On Display
Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – towards the hierarchy – by protesting at full time. Club directors would be most likely to bring back the former boss, who had a fruitful temporary stint previously, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. Yet by saying that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. Not at all. The message is we are really close, extremely close to reverse our form.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy remains focused on the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, if not for missed chances they could have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The standard we had at stages was exceptionally high. That happened. I could not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I feel a change is coming to things turning around. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“We produced plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. However it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My message would be different if it was not the case. This is why I firmly believe we will manage to turn things around.”
The Rangers Boss Outlook
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a serious challenge even after what felt like a huge result. “Step by step, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The faith in the squad is immense.”