Unbowed Celtic's manager does not fear dismissal yet supporters display fury after loss.
The under-pressure manager declared he had no concerns about dismissal, claiming, “I believe we are very near to a turnaround,” despite edging perilously close to the exit with a comprehensive loss to the Ibrox side.
A Second-Half Capitulation Leads to Derby Defeat
The Hoops were in front the visitors at half-time but a disastrous second period enabled Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired in December, has now overseen six setbacks in eight matches.
“The board and I are united at the club,” stated the manager.
Questioned about the speculation, he said: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to get the team to improve on details.
Fan Fury Erupts
The fans made their feelings clear – aimed at the hierarchy – by gathering outside the stadium. Club directors would be most likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful interim spell before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. However in stating that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am giving up. No. What I mean we are really close, really, really close to reverse our form.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
He highlights the fact the side can perform strongly for a half at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they might have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay objective.
“The standard we had at times was really, really, really high. This is the reality. And I would not talk like that if it was different. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Currently: the fine margins.”
“We produced many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. But now comes down to consistency. My narrative would change if it was not the case. This is why I firmly believe we’re going to be able to fix this.”
The Rangers Boss Response
Danny Röhl played down talk of a title charge even after what seemed like a landmark win. “One match at a time, so we can develop momentum,” he said. “The faith in the squad is immense.”
