Bullish Celtic's manager does not fear being fired but supporters display wrath after derby defeat.
Wilfried Nancy declared he had no concerns about losing his job, maintaining, “The team is extremely close to things turning around,” even after edging perilously close to the chopping block with a convincing loss to Rangers.
A Second-Half Meltdown Results in Old Firm Loss
The home side were in front the visitors at half-time but a second-half capitulation enabled Rangers to pull level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was brought in from the MLS, has now overseen six defeats in his first eight matches.
“There is unity at the club,” insisted the manager.
Asked directly about whether he was concerned, Nancy said: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on working out methods to get the team to be good on small moments.
Supporters' Anger Erupts
Hundreds of supporters made their feelings clear – aimed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds at Parkhead. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to bring back Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a caretaker period before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. Yet by saying that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. No. My point is we are on the cusp, extremely close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
He continues to cling to the fact the side can perform strongly for a half at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they would have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we didn't take a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay balanced.
“The level we had at stages was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. But that’s why, in terms of results, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: details, details, details.”
“I saw plenty of positives that we did, once more. But now comes down to consistency. My narrative would be different if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Stance
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a serious challenge even after what appeared to be a huge result. “We take it game by game, and we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The belief in the group is outstanding.”
