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The Celtic boss insisted he had no concerns about dismissal, claiming, “We are extremely close to a turnaround,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a convincing setback against the Ibrox side.

Another Collapse Results in Derby Disaster

The Hoops had led Rangers at the interval but a second-half capitulation let Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired in December, has now been in charge for six losses in his last eight fixtures.

“The board and I are united with the board,” said Nancy.

Pressed on whether he was concerned, he said: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on finding ways to help my team to improve on details.

Protest Erupts

Celtic’s support voiced their fury – directed at the board and manager – in their hundreds outside the stadium. Club directors would be most likely to bring back the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful interim spell previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. But in stating that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. The message is we are really close, really, really close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

The coach remains focused on the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, if not for poor finishing they could have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.

“The level we had at stages was of top quality. This is the reality. And I would not say that if it was not the case. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I said this is the same story. For that reason I feel a change is coming to things turning around. Right now: small things.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, as was the case today. The issue now it’s about sustaining it. My narrative would be different if it was not the case. This is why I firmly believe we’re going to be able to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Outlook

Rangers manager played down talk of a championship push even after what seemed like a landmark win. “One match at a time, and we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the squad is outstanding.”