🔗 Share this article

Wilfried Nancy stated he did not fear the sack, asserting, “I believe we are very near to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of edging perilously close to being fired with a convincing loss to the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Derby Loss

Celtic were in front Rangers at the interval but a second-half capitulation enabled Rangers to draw level on points with the reigning league title holders. Nancy, who was hired from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six setbacks in eight matches.

“We are together with the board,” said the manager.

Pressed on whether he was concerned, Nancy replied: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on working out methods to aid my players to improve on small moments.

Protest Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – towards the board and manager – by gathering at Parkhead. Club directors are reportedly likely to re-appoint the former boss, who steered the club during a caretaker period previously, if Nancy departs.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet by saying this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. Not at all. My point is we are on the cusp, extremely close to turn things around.”

“Really, Really Close”

Nancy continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. In fact, but for missed chances they could have been better 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 have also to be fair.

“The performance we had at stages was really, really, really high. This is the reality. And I would not talk like that if it was untrue. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I mentioned we've seen this before. Which is why I feel we are nearly there to things turning around. Right now: small things.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. But now it’s about sustaining it. My outlook would be different the same. That’s why I am a big believer we’re going to be able to get back on track.”

Opposition Reaction Outlook

The victorious boss was cautious about a championship push even after what seemed like a huge result. “One match at a time, then we can develop something here,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is immense.”