Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “We are very near to things turning around,” even after moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to Rangers.
The Hoops were ahead their oldest rivals at the break but a second-half capitulation enabled Danny Röhl’s team to draw level on points with the current league title holders. Nancy, who was hired from the MLS, has now presided over six setbacks in his first eight matches.
“The board and I are united with the board,” stated the manager.
Questioned about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on discovering solutions to get the team to be good on the fine details.
Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – aimed at the hierarchy – by gathering outside the stadium. Club directors are reportedly likely to return to the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful interim spell previously, should a change be made.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. But by saying this is the reality, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. No. What I mean we are on the cusp, imminently close to reverse our form.”
Nancy highlights the fact Celtic can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, were it not for poor finishing they could have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we missed more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I must remain fair.
“The level we had at stages was of top quality. This is the reality. I wouldn't talk like that if it was not the case. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I feel we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Currently: the fine margins.”
“I saw many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. However comes down to performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would be different if it was not the case. That’s why I am a big believer we’re going to be able to fix this.”
The victorious boss played down talk of a serious challenge despite what seemed like a huge result. “We take it game by game, so we can really build up something here,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”
Award-winning investigative journalist with over 15 years of experience covering political and social issues across Europe.
Alexandra James
Alexandra James
Alexandra James
Alexandra James
Alexandra James