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Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear losing his job, maintaining, “We are extremely close to changing our fortunes,” even after edging perilously close to the exit with a convincing defeat by their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Collapse Sees Old Firm Loss

The home side were in front the visitors at half-time but a collapse after the break let Rangers to move level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six defeats in eight games.

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

Asked directly about his own future, he replied: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to get the team to be good on details.

Fan Fury On Display

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – aimed at the dugout and directors – by protesting at Parkhead. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to bring back the former boss, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period last year, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. Yet when I say this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. No. My point is we are on the cusp, really, really close to reverse our form.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He continues to cling to the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, if not for missed chances they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives other than the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The standard we had at stages was really, really, really high. This is the reality. And I would not talk like that if it was not the case. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I believe a change is coming to getting it right. But for the moment: details, details, details.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. But now it’s about sustaining it. My message would not be if it was not the case. Therefore I firmly believe we’re going to be able to turn things around.”

Röhl’s Cautious Stance

The victorious boss was cautious about a championship push in spite of what felt like a landmark win. “We take it game by game, so we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is outstanding.”