Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “We are really close to a turnaround,” even after moving dangerously close to the exit with a comprehensive setback against Rangers.
Celtic were in front the visitors at the interval but a second-half capitulation let the Gers to draw level on points with the reigning league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six defeats in his last eight games.
“There is unity with the board,” stated Nancy.
Asked directly about his own future, Nancy said: “That’s not my focus. I think about working out methods to get the team to be good on small moments.
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – aimed at the board and manager – by gathering outside the stadium. The hierarchy would be most likely to re-appoint the former boss, who had a fruitful interim spell last year, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. But in stating this is the reality, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. No. The message is the turnaround is near, extremely close to turn things around.”
The coach highlights the fact the side can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for poor finishing they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay balanced.
“The performance we had at certain moments was of top quality. That happened. And I would not say that if it was different. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I said that a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: the fine margins.”
“There were plenty of positives that we did, like today again. However it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My message would be different if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer we will manage to turn things around.”
Danny Röhl was cautious about a title charge despite what appeared to be a landmark win. “One match at a time, so we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the group is immense.”
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