Unbowed Nancy insists he is not worried about dismissal but the Parkhead faithful show wrath after loss.
The Celtic boss insisted he did not fear the sack, maintaining, “I believe we are extremely close to things turning around,” despite moving dangerously close to the exit with a heavy loss to the Ibrox side.
Another Capitulation Sees Old Firm Defeat
Celtic were in front Rangers at the break but a disastrous second period allowed the Gers to pull level on points with the reigning league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed in December, has now overseen six setbacks in his first eight games.
“There is unity with the board,” insisted the manager.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on finding ways to help my team to improve on the fine details.
Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead
Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – aimed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds outside the stadium. The hierarchy would be most likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a caretaker period previously, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the truth for the moment. But in stating that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am giving up. No. What I mean we are on the cusp, extremely close to change the narrative.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
He remains focused on the fact his team play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, but for poor finishing they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.
“The level we had at times was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I wouldn't talk like that if it was untrue. But that’s why, in terms of results, I said we've seen this before. Which is why I feel a change is coming to things turning around. Currently: details, details, details.”
“We produced many, many good things that we did, like today again. However is consistency. My outlook would change the same. This is why I am a big believer we will manage to fix this.”
Opposition Reaction Outlook
The victorious boss refused to contemplate a serious challenge even after what felt like a landmark win. “We take it game by game, and we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The faith in the group is excellent.”