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Wilfried Nancy stated he was not afraid of the sack, claiming, “The team is extremely close to things turning around,” despite edging perilously close to being fired with a convincing setback against their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Old Firm Defeat

The Hoops were in front their oldest rivals at the break but a second-half capitulation allowed Rangers to pull level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six losses in his first eight matches.

“The board and I are united at the club,” stated the manager.

Pressed on his own future, the 48-year-old said: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on discovering solutions to get the team to improve on small moments.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support displayed their anger – directed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds at Parkhead. The hierarchy would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who had a fruitful interim spell previously, if Nancy departs.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am giving up. Absolutely not. My point is we are on the cusp, imminently close to change the narrative.”

Focus on the Details

Nancy continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. For instance, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I must remain objective.

“The performance we had at times was really, really, really high. This is the reality. And I would not say that if it was different. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said this is the same story. Which is why I said that we are really close to getting it right. Right now: details, details, details.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, once more. But now it’s about consistency. My message would not be if it was not the case. That’s why I am a big believer we’re going to be able to get back on track.”

Opposition Reaction Response

The victorious boss played down talk of a serious challenge in spite of what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, then we can really build up something here,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”