🔗 Share this article

The under-pressure manager stated he did not fear dismissal, asserting, “The team is really close to things turning around,” even after moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Old Firm Loss

The Hoops were ahead Rangers at the break but a second-half capitulation allowed Rangers to move level on points with the reigning league title holders. Nancy, who was brought in in December, has now overseen six setbacks in eight fixtures.

“The board and I are united at the club,” stated the manager.

Questioned about the speculation, the 48-year-old replied: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on finding ways to help my team to improve on small moments.

Supporters' Anger On Display

Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – directed at the board and manager – by protesting at full time. Club directors are thought to be considering to return to Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a temporary stint last year, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. However in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. No. The message is we are really close, extremely close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

The coach remains focused on the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for poor finishing they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.

“The performance we had at certain moments was of top quality. That is a fact. I could not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I said this is the same story. That’s why I feel a change is coming to things turning around. Currently: details, details, details.”

“There were a lot of encouraging signs that we did, as was the case today. The issue now it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My message would be different if I didn't believe it. Therefore I am a big believer we will manage to fix this.”

Opposition Reaction Response

The victorious boss played down talk of a title charge in spite of what felt like a statement victory. “One match at a time, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The belief in the group is immense.”