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The Celtic boss declared he was not afraid of the sack, maintaining, “The team is very near to things turning around,” even after sliding worryingly close to being fired with a heavy setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Old Firm Loss

Celtic were ahead their oldest rivals at the break but a collapse after the break enabled the Gers to pull level on points with the defending league title holders. Nancy, who was hired from the MLS, has now been in charge for six defeats in his last eight games.

“The board and I are united with the board,” said Nancy.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. I think about finding ways to get the team to be good on details.

Protest On Display

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – directed at the hierarchy – by protesting at full time. Club directors are reportedly likely to re-appoint the former boss, who had a fruitful temporary stint previously, if Nancy departs.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. Not at all. The message is the turnaround is near, extremely close to reverse our form.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

The coach continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for one half at a time. Indeed, were it not for poor finishing they could have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives except the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The performance we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That happened. I could not speak so positively if it was different. That is the reason, in terms of results, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I said that we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Currently: details, details, details.”

“There were a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. The issue now it’s about sustaining it. My message would change if it was not the case. This is why I am convinced we’re going to be able to fix this.”

The Rangers Boss Outlook

Rangers manager refused to contemplate a championship push despite what appeared to be a huge result. “Step by step, and we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The faith in the squad is excellent.”