Defiant Nancy does not fear the sack but the Parkhead faithful display wrath following defeat.

Wilfried Nancy declared he was not afraid of losing his job, claiming, “I believe we are very near to changing our fortunes,” even after sliding worryingly close to the exit with a comprehensive setback against their arch-rivals.

Another Capitulation Sees Derby Disaster

The Hoops were ahead their oldest rivals at half-time but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to draw level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was appointed in December, has now overseen six losses in his last eight matches.

“The board and I are united with the board,” stated the manager.

Asked directly about the speculation, Nancy responded: “It’s not on my mind. I think about working out methods to help my team to be good on small moments.

Fan Fury Outside Parkhead

The fans voiced their fury – aimed at the board and manager – in their hundreds at Parkhead. The board would be most likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful interim spell previously, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. Yet when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am giving up. Absolutely not. The message is we are on the cusp, extremely close to reverse our form.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He continues to cling to the fact Celtic can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for missed chances they might have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we missed more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The level we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That is a fact. I wouldn't talk like that if it was different. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: small things.”

“There were a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. But now it’s about consistency. My message would change the same. That’s why I firmly believe we’re going to be able to fix this.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

Danny Röhl played down talk of a serious challenge in spite of what felt like a landmark win. “We take it game by game, and we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The belief in the squad is immense.”