Defiant Celtic's manager shows no fear of dismissal yet Celtic fans display fury after loss.
The under-pressure manager declared he was not afraid of losing his job, maintaining, “I believe we are really close to changing our fortunes,” despite moving dangerously close to the chopping block with a comprehensive setback against Rangers.
Another Capitulation Results in Derby Loss
The Hoops were in front the visitors at the interval but a collapse after the break allowed the Gers to draw level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was appointed from the MLS, has now overseen six losses in his last eight matches.
“The board and I are united with the board,” insisted Nancy.
Pressed on his own future, he said: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on discovering solutions to get the team to excel on small moments.
Fan Fury Outside Parkhead
Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – towards the board and manager – by protesting at Parkhead. The board are reportedly likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. However by saying that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. The message is the turnaround is near, really, really close to change the narrative.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
Nancy remains focused on the fact the side play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, but for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been more than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I must remain fair.
“The level we had at stages was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I wouldn't say that if it was untrue. Therefore, in terms of results, I said it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: the fine margins.”
“There were plenty of positives that we did, like today again. However comes down to performing for 90 minutes. My message would be different if it was not the case. Therefore I am convinced we’re going to be able to fix this.”
Röhl’s Cautious Stance
The victorious boss was cautious about a serious challenge in spite of what appeared to be a huge result. “Step by step, so we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the squad is immense.”