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Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear dismissal, asserting, “I believe we are very near to things turning around,” despite sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a heavy loss to their arch-rivals.

Another Capitulation Sees Old Firm Defeat

The home side were ahead the visitors at the interval but a second-half capitulation enabled Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the defending league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six losses in his last eight fixtures.

“We are together with the board,” stated the manager.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. I think about discovering solutions to get the team to improve on details.

Fan Fury On Display

Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – aimed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. The hierarchy would be most likely to re-appoint the former boss, who had a fruitful temporary stint last year, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet when I say that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. No. The message is we are on the cusp, extremely close to change the narrative.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He remains focused on the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. In fact, but for missed chances they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be fair.

“The level we had at times was exceptionally high. That is a fact. I could not talk like that if it was not the case. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. Which is why I feel we are really close to things turning around. Right now: the fine margins.”

“There were a lot of encouraging signs that we did, as was the case today. But now comes down to sustaining it. My narrative would change the same. That’s why I am a big believer we will manage to get back on track.”

Röhl’s Cautious Response

The victorious boss was cautious about a championship push even after what felt like a statement victory. “We take it game by game, so we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the team is outstanding.”