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Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear losing his job, maintaining, “The team is really close to things turning around,” even after edging perilously close to the exit with a heavy defeat by their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Capitulation Leads to Derby Disaster

The home side had led their oldest rivals at the interval but a disastrous second period enabled Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the reigning league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was brought in in December, has now been in charge for six losses in eight games.

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

Pressed on his own future, he responded: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on finding ways to aid my players to be good on details.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support voiced their fury – towards the board and manager – by gathering at full time. The board would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. But in stating that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. No. The message is we are really close, really, really close to reverse our form.”

“Really, Really Close”

Nancy remains focused on the fact the side play well for a half at a time. For instance, were it not for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The performance we had at times was of top quality. That happened. I could not say that if it was different. But that’s why, in terms of results, I said it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I feel we are really close to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: details, details, details.”

“There were plenty of positives that we did, once more. But now is sustaining it. My message would be different if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer the team can to turn things around.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a championship push despite what appeared to be a huge result. “We take it game by game, then we can develop something here,” he said. “The confidence in the team is excellent.”