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The under-pressure manager declared he was not afraid of the sack, maintaining, “I believe we are extremely close to things turning around,” 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 Loss

Celtic were in front their oldest rivals at the break but a disastrous second period let Rangers to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from the MLS, has now presided over six setbacks in his last eight matches.

“There is unity with the board,” said the manager.

Asked directly about the speculation, he replied: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on finding ways to get the team to improve on details.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support voiced their fury – directed at the board and manager – by gathering outside the stadium. The board are thought to be considering to return to the interim manager, who steered the club during a caretaker period before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. But in stating that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. Not at all. What I mean we are really close, imminently close to change the narrative.”

Focus on the Details

Nancy highlights the fact his team play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, if not for missed chances they could have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The standard we had at times was really, really, really high. That is a fact. 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. Which is why I believe a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Currently: details, details, details.”

“We produced plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. But now comes down to sustaining it. My narrative would be different if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am convinced we’re going to be able to get back on track.”

Röhl’s Cautious Stance

Danny Röhl played down talk of a serious challenge in spite of what appeared to be a statement victory. “One match at a time, and we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The faith in the team is immense.”