Bullish Nancy shows no fear of being fired but the Parkhead faithful display fury after defeat.
The Celtic boss declared he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “I believe we are really close to things turning around,” even after sliding worryingly close to the exit with a convincing loss to the Ibrox side.
Another Meltdown Sees Derby Defeat
Celtic were ahead the visitors at the break but a second-half capitulation enabled the Gers to draw level on points with the reigning league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was appointed in December, has now presided over six defeats in his first eight matches.
“There is unity with the board,” insisted Nancy.
Questioned about his own future, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. I think about discovering solutions to aid my players to be good on details.
Protest Erupts
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – directed at the dugout and directors – by protesting at full time. Club directors would be most likely to return to the former boss, who steered the club during a interim spell last year, should a change be made.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. However when I say that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. No. The message is we are really close, imminently close to change the narrative.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy highlights the fact Celtic play well for one half at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they would have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain balanced.
“The standard we had at stages was of top quality. This is the reality. I could not speak so positively if it was different. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said we've seen this before. Which is why I said that a change is coming to things turning around. Currently: the fine margins.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. However is performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. This is why I am convinced we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Opposition Reaction Response
Rangers manager played down talk of a title charge despite what felt like a huge result. “We take it game by game, then we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The belief in the group is immense.”