Defiant Celtic's manager insists he is not worried about the sack but Celtic fans unleash anger after defeat.
Wilfried Nancy insisted he had no concerns about dismissal, asserting, “I believe we are very near to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to being fired with a heavy defeat by Rangers.
A Second-Half Collapse Results in Derby Defeat
The Hoops were ahead Rangers at the break but a second-half capitulation enabled the Gers to pull level on points with the current league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed in December, has now been in charge for six defeats in his first eight fixtures.
“There is unity at the club,” insisted the manager.
Questioned about the speculation, he responded: “I don’t think about it. I think about finding ways to help my team to improve on details.
Supporters' Anger Erupts
Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – towards the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. The board are thought to be considering to re-appoint the former boss, who enjoyed a successful interim spell last year, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. However in stating that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. What I mean we are on the cusp, imminently close to turn things around.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
The coach remains focused on the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, but for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives other than the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The standard we had at stages was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I could not talk like that if it was different. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I feel we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Right now: small things.”
“We produced plenty of positives that we did, like today again. However it’s about sustaining it. My message would not be if it was not the case. That’s why I am a big believer we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Outlook
The victorious boss refused to contemplate a serious challenge despite what felt like a huge result. “One match at a time, and we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The faith in the team is immense.”
