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Wilfried Nancy stated he was not afraid of the sack, asserting, “The team is very near to a turnaround,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to the chopping block with a heavy setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Old Firm Defeat

Celtic had led Rangers at half-time but a second-half capitulation allowed the Gers to draw level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was appointed in December, has now presided over six losses in his first eight matches.

“We are together with the board,” said Nancy.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old responded: “It’s not on my mind. I concentrate on working out methods to aid my players to excel on small moments.

Supporters' Anger On Display

The fans displayed their anger – directed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds outside the stadium. Club directors would be most likely to bring back the interim manager, who had a fruitful temporary stint last year, should a change be made.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. But by saying that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. No. The message is the turnaround is near, really, really close to reverse our form.”

“Really, Really Close”

He highlights the fact Celtic show good levels for one half at a time. Indeed, if not for missed chances they could have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.

“The level we had at stages was of top quality. That happened. And I would not talk like that if it was different. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I mentioned we've seen this before. For that reason I believe a change is coming to things turning around. Currently: details, details, details.”

“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. The issue now it’s about sustaining it. My message would be different the same. That’s why I firmly believe we will manage to get back on track.”

Opposition Reaction Response

The victorious boss refused to contemplate a championship push in spite of what felt like a statement victory. “One match at a time, then we can really build up something here,” he said. “The faith in the squad is immense.”