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The Celtic boss declared he was not afraid of dismissal, claiming, “We are very near to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of edging perilously close to the chopping block with a comprehensive defeat by Rangers.

A Second-Half Meltdown Leads to Derby Loss

The home side were in front Rangers at the interval but a second-half capitulation allowed the Gers to draw level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was hired from the MLS, has now overseen six defeats in his last eight matches.

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

Questioned about his own future, the 48-year-old responded: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on finding ways to help my team to be good on the fine details.

Protest Erupts

Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – towards the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. The board are thought to be considering to re-appoint the former boss, who steered the club during a interim spell last year, if Nancy departs.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. But when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. What I mean the turnaround is near, extremely close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

The coach continues to cling to the fact his team play well for one half at a time. Indeed, but for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay objective.

“The performance we had at stages was exceptionally high. That is a fact. And I would not talk like that if it was untrue. But that’s why, in terms of results, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I feel we are really close to things turning around. But for the moment: details, details, details.”

“We produced plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. However it’s about sustaining it. My narrative would not be if I didn't believe it. This is why I firmly believe we will manage to get back on track.”

Röhl’s Cautious Stance

Rangers manager played down talk of a serious challenge even after what appeared to be a huge result. “Step by step, so we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The faith in the team is outstanding.”