🔗 Share this article

Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear dismissal, maintaining, “We are really close to a turnaround,” in the wake of edging perilously close to the chopping block with a convincing setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Capitulation Results in Old Firm Loss

The home side were in front Rangers at the interval but a disastrous second period let the Gers to move level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six setbacks in his last eight games.

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

Questioned about whether he was concerned, he replied: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on working out methods to help my team to be good on the fine details.

Fan Fury Erupts

Celtic’s support voiced their fury – towards the board and manager – by gathering outside the stadium. The hierarchy would be most likely to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a caretaker period last year, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. No. What I mean we are really close, really, really close to reverse our form.”

Focus on the Details

He remains focused on the fact his team can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, but for missed chances they would have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be fair.

“The level we had at times was exceptionally high. That is a fact. And I would not say that if it was untrue. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I mentioned we've seen this before. For that reason I believe we are nearly there to getting it right. Currently: details, details, details.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, like today again. However it’s about sustaining it. My narrative would change if it was not the case. This is why I firmly believe we will manage to fix this.”

The Rangers Boss Stance

Rangers manager was cautious about a title charge despite what felt like a huge result. “We take it game by game, then we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the squad is excellent.”