Unbowed Celtic's manager shows no fear of the sack yet the Parkhead faithful show wrath after loss.
Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear the sack, asserting, “The team is extremely close to changing our fortunes,” despite sliding worryingly close to the exit with a comprehensive loss to their arch-rivals.
A Second-Half Collapse Results in Derby Loss
The home side had led Rangers at half-time but a disastrous second period let Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six setbacks in his last eight fixtures.
“The board and I are united with the board,” said the manager.
Questioned about whether he was concerned, he replied: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on finding ways to get the team to be good on the fine details.
Protest Outside Parkhead
Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – directed at the board and manager – by gathering at Parkhead. Club directors are thought to be considering to re-appoint the interim manager, who steered the club during a caretaker period last year, if Nancy departs.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. However when I say that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. What I mean we are on the cusp, really, really close to reverse our form.”
“Really, Really Close”
The coach highlights the fact the side show good levels for a half at a time. Indeed, were it not for missed chances they could have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” 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. And I would not say that if it was untrue. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that we are really close to things turning around. Currently: the fine margins.”
“We produced plenty of positives that we did, once more. But now is consistency. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. Therefore I am convinced the team can to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Outlook
Rangers manager was cautious about a serious challenge in spite of what felt like a landmark win. “We take it game by game, then we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the group is immense.”
