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The under-pressure manager insisted he had no concerns about the sack, maintaining, “We are really close to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to being fired with a comprehensive loss to their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Meltdown Results in Derby Defeat

The Hoops were ahead Rangers at the break but a disastrous second period let Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was appointed in December, has now been in charge for six losses in his last eight games.

“There is unity at the club,” said the manager.

Pressed on the speculation, Nancy responded: “It’s not on my mind. I concentrate on discovering solutions to help my team to be good on details.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – towards the hierarchy – by protesting outside the stadium. The board would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am giving up. Not at all. The message is we are on the cusp, really, really close to reverse our form.”

“Really, Really Close”

The coach remains focused on the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. For instance, were it not for poor finishing they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The standard we had at certain moments was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was untrue. That is the reason, regarding outcomes, I said we've seen this before. For that reason I believe we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Currently: small things.”

“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, as was the case today. But now is consistency. My narrative would be different if it was not the case. That’s why I am convinced we will manage to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Outlook

The victorious boss refused to contemplate a serious challenge even after what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, and we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is immense.”