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Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear dismissal, maintaining, “I believe we are very near to a turnaround,” despite sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a convincing setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Meltdown Sees Derby Disaster

Celtic were in front Rangers at the interval but a second-half capitulation enabled Danny Röhl’s team to draw level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was appointed from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in eight games.

“There is unity with the board,” stated the manager.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on finding ways to aid my players to excel on small moments.

Supporters' Anger On Display

The fans made their feelings clear – aimed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. The board would be most likely to return to the former boss, who steered the club during a caretaker period before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. But by saying that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am giving up. Not at all. What I mean we are really close, really, really close to change the narrative.”

“Really, Really Close”

Nancy remains focused on the fact the side show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, were it not for missed chances they might have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be fair.

“The level we had at stages was exceptionally high. This is the reality. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. Therefore, in terms of results, I mentioned we've seen this before. That’s why I believe a change is coming to getting it right. Currently: small things.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. The issue now comes down to performing for 90 minutes. My outlook would not be if it was not the case. That’s why I am convinced the team can to fix this.”

The Rangers Boss Response

Rangers manager was cautious about a championship push despite what felt like a statement victory. “We take it game by game, then we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the team is excellent.”