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The under-pressure manager insisted he was not afraid of losing his job, asserting, “We are really close to changing our fortunes,” despite edging perilously close to being fired with a comprehensive loss to their arch-rivals.

Another Collapse Results in Old Firm Defeat

Celtic were ahead Rangers at the interval but a collapse after the break allowed the Gers to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six defeats in his last eight fixtures.

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

Asked directly about his own future, Nancy responded: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on finding ways to aid my players to excel on small moments.

Fan Fury On Display

The fans displayed their anger – directed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. The board are reportedly likely to bring back the interim manager, who steered the club during a interim spell last year, if Nancy departs.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. However when I say that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. Not at all. My point is we are on the cusp, extremely close to turn things around.”

“Really, Really Close”

The coach continues to cling to the fact Celtic can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, but for poor finishing they would have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we missed more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay objective.

“The level we had at times was exceptionally high. That is a fact. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was different. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that we are nearly there to things turning around. Currently: details, details, details.”

“There were a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. But now comes down to sustaining it. My narrative would not be if I didn't believe it. This is why I am convinced we will manage to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Outlook

Danny Röhl played down talk of a title charge despite what felt like a statement victory. “Step by step, so we can gradually build something here,” he said. “The confidence in the team is excellent.”