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Wilfried Nancy declared he was not afraid of dismissal, asserting, “We are very near to a turnaround,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Meltdown Sees Old Firm Disaster

The Hoops were in front Rangers at the break but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to draw level on points with the current league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed in December, has now been in charge for six losses in his last eight games.

“The board and I are united with the board,” said Nancy.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old replied: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to help my team to improve on small moments.

Protest Erupts

Hundreds of supporters made their feelings clear – aimed at the board and manager – by gathering at Parkhead. The hierarchy would be most likely to re-appoint the former boss, who enjoyed a successful interim spell before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. But in stating that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. The message is we are really close, imminently close to change the narrative.”

Focus on the Details

Nancy remains focused on the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, were it not for missed chances they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain fair.

“The level we had at times was really, really, really high. That is a fact. And I would not say that if it was not the case. Therefore, in terms of results, I said this is the same story. That’s why I said that we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Right now: details, details, details.”

“We produced plenty of positives that we did, like today again. However comes down to performing for 90 minutes. My message would change if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer we’re going to be able to get back on track.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

The victorious boss was cautious about a championship push despite what appeared to be a huge result. “We take it game by game, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The belief in the team is outstanding.”