Defiant Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about dismissal but the Parkhead faithful show anger following defeat.

The Celtic boss insisted he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “The team is very near to a turnaround,” despite moving dangerously close to being fired with a heavy setback against Rangers.

Another Collapse Leads to Derby Defeat

The Hoops were ahead the visitors at the interval but a collapse after the break let the Gers to draw level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was appointed in December, has now been in charge for six losses in eight games.

“The board and I are united at the club,” insisted Nancy.

Questioned about whether he was concerned, Nancy responded: “It’s not on my mind. I think about finding ways to get the team to excel on small moments.

Protest Erupts

Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – aimed at the board and manager – in their hundreds at full time. The hierarchy are thought to be considering to bring back Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a temporary stint previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. But by saying this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. No. My point is the turnaround is near, extremely close to change the narrative.”

“Really, Really Close”

Nancy highlights the fact his team play well for one half at a time. In fact, but for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The level we had at certain moments was of top quality. That happened. I could not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I noted it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I believe a change is coming to getting it right. Currently: small things.”

“There were many, many good things that we did, like today again. The issue now comes down to performing for 90 minutes. My message would be different the same. Therefore I firmly believe we will manage to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Stance

Danny Röhl played down talk of a title charge in spite of what seemed like a statement victory. “One match at a time, then we can develop momentum,” he said. “The faith in the team is excellent.”

Kimberly Smith
Kimberly Smith

A technology strategist with over a decade of experience in IT consulting and digital transformation projects across Europe and Asia.