Bullish Nancy does not fear being fired however the Parkhead faithful display fury following loss.
The under-pressure manager insisted he was not afraid of dismissal, claiming, “The team is very near to a turnaround,” in the wake of edging perilously close to being fired with a convincing defeat by their arch-rivals.
A Second-Half Collapse Results in Old Firm Disaster
Celtic had led Rangers at half-time but a collapse after the break enabled the Gers to move level on points with the current league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six defeats in eight games.
“The board and I are united with the board,” stated Nancy.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old responded: “It’s not on my mind. I think about finding ways to aid my players to improve on small moments.
Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead
Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – towards the hierarchy – by gathering at full time. Club directors are thought to be considering to return to Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful interim spell previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. However by saying that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. Not at all. What I mean we are really close, extremely close to reverse our form.”
“Really, Really Close”
He remains focused on the fact the side show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they could have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I must remain fair.
“The performance we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That happened. And I would not speak so positively if it was different. That is the reason, in terms of results, I said we've seen this before. For that reason I believe we are really close to things turning around. Right now: details, details, details.”
“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, as was the case today. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. This is why I am convinced the team can to turn things around.”
Opposition Reaction Response
Rangers manager played down talk of a serious challenge in spite of what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, and we can develop momentum,” he said. “The faith in the team is outstanding.”