🔗 Share this article

Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear dismissal, asserting, “We are very near to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a heavy loss to Rangers.

A Second-Half Meltdown Leads to Old Firm Disaster

The Hoops were in front their oldest rivals at half-time but a second-half capitulation allowed Rangers to draw level on points with the defending league title holders. Nancy, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six losses in his last eight fixtures.

“We are together at the club,” stated the manager.

Asked directly about the speculation, the 48-year-old responded: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on working out methods to get the team to be good on small moments.

Protest On Display

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – aimed at the hierarchy – by protesting outside the stadium. Club directors would be most likely to re-appoint the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful interim spell before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. No. The message is we are on the cusp, really, really close to turn things around.”

Focus on the Details

The coach continues to cling to the fact his team can perform strongly for one half at a time. For instance, if not for poor finishing they would have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The performance we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. This is the reality. And I would not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I noted it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Right now: the fine margins.”

“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. The issue now it’s about sustaining it. My message would change if it was not the case. That’s why I am a big believer the team can to fix this.”

Opposition Reaction Response

Danny Röhl was cautious about a title charge even after what seemed like a statement victory. “Step by step, so we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The confidence in the group is immense.”