Bullish Celtic's manager does not fear being fired but supporters show fury following derby defeat.
The under-pressure manager insisted he did not fear losing his job, asserting, “We are extremely close to changing our fortunes,” despite edging perilously close to the exit with a heavy defeat by Rangers.
A Second-Half Meltdown Results in Derby Loss
The home side had led Rangers at half-time but a collapse after the break allowed Danny Röhl’s team to draw level on points with the reigning league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six losses in his first eight matches.
“There is unity at the club,” said the manager.
Questioned about whether he was concerned, he replied: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on discovering solutions to get the team to excel on small moments.
Fan Fury Erupts
Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – aimed at the board and manager – by protesting outside the stadium. Club directors are reportedly likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who steered the club during a caretaker period before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. Yet in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. What I mean the turnaround is near, imminently close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
Nancy remains focused on the fact his team can perform strongly for a half at a time. In fact, if not for missed chances they might have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain fair.
“The performance we had at stages was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I wouldn't talk like that if it was not the case. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I noted this is the same story. That’s why I believe we are really close to getting it right. Right now: small things.”
“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. But now is sustaining it. My message would be different if I didn't believe it. This is why I firmly believe we will manage to get back on track.”
Röhl’s Cautious Response
The victorious boss played down talk of a championship push despite what appeared to be a statement victory. “Step by step, so we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the team is excellent.”
