🔗 Share this article

Wilfried Nancy declared he had no concerns about dismissal, asserting, “The team is very near to a turnaround,” even after moving dangerously close to the exit with a comprehensive loss to their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Meltdown Results in Old Firm Disaster

Celtic were ahead Rangers at half-time but a disastrous second period allowed Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The French coach, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six defeats in eight fixtures.

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

Asked directly about his own future, the 48-year-old replied: “I don’t think about it. I think about working out methods to get the team to improve on the fine details.

Fan Fury On Display

The fans displayed their anger – towards the dugout and directors – in their hundreds at Parkhead. The board would be most likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful interim spell previously, if Nancy departs.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the truth for the moment. Yet by saying this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. What I mean we are really close, imminently close to change the narrative.”

Focus on the Details

Nancy remains focused on the fact the side show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The standard we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That happened. And I would not talk like that if it was not the case. That is the reason, in terms of results, I said this is the same story. That’s why I feel we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: small things.”

“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. However it’s about consistency. My message would be different the same. Therefore I am convinced the team can to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Response

The victorious boss played down talk of a serious challenge even after what seemed like a statement victory. “One match at a time, then we can develop momentum,” he said. “The belief in the group is excellent.”