Bullish Wilfried Nancy does not fear being fired however Celtic fans unleash anger following derby defeat.

The under-pressure manager stated he had no concerns about losing his job, claiming, “The team is very near to things turning around,” even after moving dangerously close to being fired with a heavy defeat by their arch-rivals.

Another Capitulation Results in Derby Disaster

Celtic had led their oldest rivals at the interval but a collapse after the break let the Gers to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was hired from the MLS, has now been in charge for six losses in eight fixtures.

“We are together at the club,” stated the manager.

Asked directly about the speculation, he replied: “That’s not my focus. I think about finding ways to help my team to excel on small moments.

Protest Erupts

Hundreds of supporters made their feelings clear – aimed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds outside the stadium. Club directors are reportedly likely to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a interim spell before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. Yet when I say this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. Not at all. The message is we are on the cusp, extremely close to reverse our form.”

Focus on the Details

He continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for poor finishing they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The performance we had at stages was of top quality. This is the reality. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was different. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I believe we are nearly there to getting it right. Currently: details, details, details.”

“We produced many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. But now it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My outlook would be different if I didn't believe it. Therefore I am a big believer the team can to fix this.”

Röhl’s Cautious Response

The victorious boss played down talk of a serious challenge in spite of what felt like a statement victory. “One match at a time, and we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the team is outstanding.”

James Vaughn
James Vaughn

Elena Vance is a seasoned business strategist with over 15 years of experience in corporate consulting and digital transformation.