Unbowed Celtic's manager insists he is not worried about being fired but the Parkhead faithful unleash anger following loss.
Wilfried Nancy insisted he was not afraid of the sack, asserting, “The team is really close to a turnaround,” even after edging perilously close to being fired with a heavy loss to Rangers.
A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Derby Loss
Celtic had led Rangers at the break but a collapse after the break allowed the Gers to draw level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired in December, has now presided over six losses in his last eight matches.
“We are together at the club,” insisted Nancy.
Asked directly about his own future, Nancy said: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on working out methods to aid my players to excel on the fine details.
Fan Fury On Display
Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – directed at the dugout and directors – by gathering at full time. The board are thought to be considering to re-appoint the interim manager, who had a fruitful temporary stint last year, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet by saying that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. No. The message is we are on the cusp, extremely close to change the narrative.”
Focus on the Details
Nancy continues to cling to the fact the side can perform strongly for a half at a time. In fact, but for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The performance we had at certain moments was really, really, really high. That happened. And I would not speak so positively if it was untrue. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I noted it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that a change is coming to getting it right. Currently: small things.”
“There were many, many good things that we did, once more. The issue now is performing for 90 minutes. My outlook would not be the same. That’s why I am a big believer we will manage to fix this.”
Opposition Reaction Response
Rangers manager refused to contemplate a title charge even after what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, and we can gradually build something here,” he said. “The faith in the squad is outstanding.”
