Defiant Celtic's manager insists he is not worried about dismissal yet Celtic fans display anger after defeat.

Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear the sack, asserting, “I believe we are extremely close to things turning around,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to the chopping block with a comprehensive loss to their arch-rivals.

Another Collapse Results in Derby Disaster

The home side had led Rangers at the break but a collapse after the break enabled Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in in December, has now presided over six defeats in his first eight fixtures.

“There is unity at the club,” said Nancy.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on finding ways to get the team to excel on the fine details.

Fan Fury Erupts

Celtic’s support displayed their anger – towards the hierarchy – by gathering outside the stadium. The hierarchy are thought to be considering to return to Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a caretaker period before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. But by saying this is the reality, I am not saying that I am giving up. Not at all. What I mean we are on the cusp, extremely close to change the narrative.”

Focus on the Details

The coach continues to cling to the fact his team play well for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, were it not for missed chances they might have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The standard we had at stages was of top quality. That is a fact. I wouldn't talk like that if it was not the case. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I said we've seen this before. For that reason I said that we are nearly there to getting it right. Currently: small things.”

“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. However comes down to consistency. My narrative would not be the same. Therefore I am convinced we will manage to get back on track.”

Opposition Reaction Response

Danny Röhl was cautious about a title charge despite what seemed like a huge result. “Step by step, so we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The faith in the squad is outstanding.”

David Walker
David Walker

A tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their impact on society.