Unbowed Celtic's manager does not fear being fired but Celtic fans display fury following defeat.
Wilfried Nancy declared he was not afraid of the sack, claiming, “We are very near to changing our fortunes,” despite edging perilously close to being fired with a comprehensive defeat by the Ibrox side.
A Second-Half Meltdown Sees Old Firm Disaster
Celtic were in front Rangers at half-time but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six defeats in his first eight matches.
“There is unity at the club,” stated Nancy.
Pressed on his own future, the 48-year-old replied: “That’s not my focus. I think about working out methods to get the team to excel on small moments.
Fan Fury On Display
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – aimed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds at Parkhead. The board are reportedly likely to bring back the former boss, who steered the club during a temporary stint previously, should a change be made.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. Yet when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. What I mean we are on the cusp, imminently close to change the narrative.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
The coach highlights the fact Celtic show good levels for one half at a time. For instance, were it not for missed chances they would have been more than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The level 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, regarding outcomes, I noted it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I feel we are nearly there to things turning around. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“I saw plenty of positives that we did, like today again. But now is consistency. My message would change if it was not the case. This is why I firmly believe we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
The Rangers Boss Outlook
Danny Röhl played down talk of a title charge despite what seemed like a statement victory. “We take it game by game, then we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The faith in the squad is excellent.”
