Defiant Wilfried Nancy does not fear being fired yet supporters display anger after defeat.
The under-pressure manager declared he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “I believe we are really close to changing our fortunes,” despite moving dangerously close to the exit with a comprehensive defeat by their arch-rivals.
Another Capitulation Results in Derby Disaster
Celtic were ahead the visitors at half-time but a disastrous second period enabled Rangers to pull level on points with the current league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed from the MLS, has now presided over six losses in his first eight fixtures.
“There is unity at the club,” said the manager.
Questioned about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old replied: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on working out methods to aid my players to be good on details.
Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead
The fans voiced their fury – directed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds at Parkhead. Club directors would be most likely to bring back the former boss, who enjoyed a successful temporary stint previously, if Nancy departs.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. Not at all. My point is we are really close, imminently close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
The coach continues to cling to the fact the side show good levels for one half at a time. Indeed, if not for missed chances they might have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we missed more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be fair.
“The performance we had at certain moments was of top quality. This is the reality. And I would not talk like that if it was not the case. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I believe we are really close to getting it right. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“We produced plenty of positives that we did, once more. However it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be the same. That’s why I firmly believe we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Outlook
Rangers manager was cautious about a serious challenge despite what seemed like a huge result. “We take it game by game, then we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is immense.”