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The under-pressure manager stated he was not afraid of the sack, asserting, “We are very near to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to Rangers.

Another Capitulation Results in Old Firm Defeat

Celtic were in front Rangers at the interval but a disastrous second period allowed the Gers to move level on points with the reigning league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed in December, has now been in charge for six setbacks in his first eight fixtures.

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

Pressed on whether he was concerned, he said: “It’s not on my mind. I concentrate on finding ways to help my team to be good on details.

Protest On Display

Celtic’s support displayed their anger – aimed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds outside the stadium. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful temporary stint last year, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. However in stating this is the reality, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. No. The message is we are really close, really, really close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He continues to cling to the fact his team can perform strongly for one half at a time. In fact, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain fair.

“The level we had at certain moments was really, really, really high. That happened. I could not speak so positively if it was different. But that’s why, in terms of results, I noted this is the same story. For that reason I believe we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Currently: small things.”

“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My outlook would change if I didn't believe it. This is why I am a big believer we’re going to be able to fix this.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

The victorious boss played down talk of a championship push even after what felt like a statement victory. “Step by step, and we can develop something here,” he said. “The faith in the team is outstanding.”