Bullish Wilfried Nancy shows no fear of being fired yet the Parkhead faithful display wrath following defeat.
The under-pressure manager stated he did not fear losing his job, claiming, “We are very near to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the exit with a heavy setback against their arch-rivals.
Another Collapse Results in Derby Loss
Celtic were in front their oldest rivals at the interval but a second-half capitulation allowed Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the reigning league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from the MLS, has now overseen six setbacks in his first eight matches.
“We are together at the club,” said Nancy.
Pressed on the speculation, the 48-year-old replied: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on finding ways to help my team to excel on details.
Protest On Display
Hundreds of supporters made their feelings clear – aimed at the board and manager – in their hundreds outside the stadium. The board would be most likely to return to the former boss, who steered the club during a caretaker period last year, should a change be made.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. But when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. My point is we are on the cusp, really, really close to reverse our form.”
Focus on the Details
He highlights the fact his team show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, if not for missed chances they would have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives other than the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be fair.
“The performance we had at times was of top quality. That is a fact. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I noted it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I feel a change is coming to getting it right. Currently: details, details, details.”
“We produced many, many good things that we did, like today again. However comes down to consistency. My message would not be the same. This is why I firmly believe we will manage to get back on track.”
Opposition Reaction Outlook
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a serious challenge in spite of what seemed like a landmark win. “We take it game by game, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The faith in the squad is immense.”