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Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear losing his job, claiming, “I believe we are extremely close to a turnaround,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to the exit with a comprehensive setback against the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Collapse Leads to Derby Loss

The Hoops were ahead Rangers at the break but a collapse after the break enabled the Gers to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six defeats in his first eight fixtures.

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

Questioned about the speculation, the 48-year-old responded: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on working out methods to aid my players to be good on the fine details.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – towards the board and manager – by gathering at full time. The hierarchy would be most likely to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a temporary stint previously, if Nancy departs.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet by saying this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. The message is the turnaround is near, really, really close to change the narrative.”

“Really, Really Close”

The coach remains focused on the fact the side play well for one half at a time. In fact, were it not for poor finishing they might have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we didn't take a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be fair.

“The performance we had at stages was of top quality. This is the reality. I could not say that if it was not the case. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I said that we are nearly there to things turning around. Right now: the fine margins.”

“We produced many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. The issue now is performing for 90 minutes. My message would be different if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer we’re going to be able to fix this.”

Röhl’s Cautious Stance

Rangers manager was cautious about a championship push in spite of what seemed like a huge result. “One match at a time, and we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the group is excellent.”