Unbowed Celtic's manager does not fear being fired however supporters show anger after derby defeat.
The under-pressure manager insisted he had no concerns about losing his job, claiming, “I believe we are really close to a turnaround,” even after edging perilously close to the exit with a heavy defeat by the Ibrox side.
Another Collapse Leads to Derby Loss
The Hoops had led Rangers at the interval but a second-half capitulation let the Gers to draw level on points with the current league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was hired in December, has now been in charge for six losses in his last eight games.
“The board and I are united at the club,” insisted Nancy.
Questioned about whether he was concerned, he replied: “I don’t think about it. I think about working out methods to help my team to excel on the fine details.
Supporters' Anger On Display
The fans made their feelings clear – aimed at the dugout and directors – by protesting at full time. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to bring back the interim manager, who had a fruitful caretaker period before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. What I mean we are on the cusp, imminently close to change the narrative.”
“Really, Really Close”
He highlights the fact his team play well for one half at a time. Indeed, if not for missed chances they might have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives other than the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be objective.
“The level we had at certain moments was of top quality. This is the reality. I could not talk like that if it was different. That is the reason, in terms of results, I mentioned this is the same story. That’s why I said that we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Right now: the fine margins.”
“There were many, many good things that we did, like today again. The issue now comes down to sustaining it. My narrative would change the same. Therefore I am convinced we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Röhl’s Cautious Stance
Rangers manager refused to contemplate a serious challenge in spite of what seemed like a huge result. “We take it game by game, so we can really build up something here,” he said. “The faith in the team is outstanding.”
