Bullish Wilfried Nancy shows no fear of being fired yet supporters display anger after loss.
The Celtic boss declared he was not afraid of dismissal, maintaining, “The team is really close to a turnaround,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to the exit with a comprehensive defeat by their arch-rivals.
A Second-Half Collapse Sees Derby Disaster
The home side had led their oldest rivals at the interval but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to move level on points with the current league title holders. Nancy, who was brought in from the MLS, has now overseen six setbacks in eight games.
“The board and I are united at the club,” insisted the manager.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, Nancy replied: “It’s not on my mind. I think about finding ways to get the team to be good on details.
Fan Fury Outside Parkhead
The fans displayed their anger – directed at the board and manager – in their hundreds at full time. The hierarchy are thought to be considering to re-appoint the former boss, who had a fruitful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. However by saying this is the reality, I am not saying that I am giving up. Absolutely not. What I mean we are really close, imminently close to turn things around.”
Focus on the Details
He highlights the fact his team can perform strongly for a half at a time. For instance, if not for poor finishing they might have been more than 1-0 up. “There were positives other than the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be fair.
“The performance we had at certain moments was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I could not speak so positively if it was untrue. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Currently: the fine margins.”
“There were plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. But now it’s about consistency. My message would not be if it was not the case. This is why I am convinced the team can to fix this.”
Röhl’s Cautious Outlook
The victorious boss played down talk of a championship push even after what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, and we can gradually build something here,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is outstanding.”
