Defiant Celtic's manager insists he is not worried about the sack but supporters unleash fury following loss.
The Celtic boss stated he had no concerns about losing his job, claiming, “We are very near to changing our fortunes,” even after moving dangerously close to being fired with a heavy defeat by their arch-rivals.
Another Meltdown Sees Old Firm Loss
The Hoops were ahead their oldest rivals at half-time but a collapse after the break let the Gers to move level on points with the reigning league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six setbacks in his last eight games.
“The board and I are united at the club,” stated the manager.
Questioned about his own future, the 48-year-old said: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to help my team to improve on details.
Protest On Display
Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – towards the board and manager – by protesting outside the stadium. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to bring back Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a caretaker period before Nancy was hired, 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, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. The message is we are on the cusp, really, really close to reverse our form.”
“Really, Really Close”
The coach remains focused on the fact Celtic can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, but for poor finishing they could have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we missed more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The standard we had at stages was really, really, really high. That is a fact. And I would not say that if it was different. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that a change is coming to getting it right. Currently: the fine margins.”
“There were many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. But now is sustaining it. My message would change if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am convinced the team can to turn things around.”
Opposition Reaction Outlook
Danny Röhl played down talk of a championship push even after what appeared to be a statement victory. “We take it game by game, and we can develop momentum,” he said. “The faith in the squad is excellent.”