Unbowed Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about being fired however the Parkhead faithful display anger following loss.
The Celtic boss declared he had no concerns about dismissal, maintaining, “The team is really close to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to Rangers.
Another Collapse Results in Derby Disaster
The home side were in front the visitors at the interval but a second-half capitulation let the Gers to pull level on points with the defending league title holders. The French coach, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six setbacks in eight matches.
“The board and I are united with the board,” stated the manager.
Questioned about the speculation, he replied: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on finding ways to get the team to improve on details.
Fan Fury Erupts
The fans voiced their fury – aimed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds at full time. The board are reportedly likely to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. So this is the truth for the moment. But when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Not at all. The message is we are really close, really, really close to turn things around.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
Nancy continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they could have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The level we had at times was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I feel we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Currently: the fine margins.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. The issue now comes down to performing for 90 minutes. My outlook would not be if I didn't believe it. Therefore I firmly believe we’re going to be able to fix this.”
The Rangers Boss Stance
The victorious boss was cautious about a championship push in spite of what seemed like a statement victory. “Step by step, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is immense.”