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Wilfried Nancy declared he was not afraid of the sack, asserting, “The team is extremely close to things turning around,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to the chopping block with a comprehensive setback against their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Old Firm Disaster

The home side had led Rangers at the break but a disastrous second period enabled Danny Röhl’s team to draw level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was appointed in December, has now been in charge for six losses in his last eight matches.

“There is unity with the board,” said Nancy.

Pressed on whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old responded: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on finding ways to get the team to improve on the fine details.

Supporters' Anger Erupts

Celtic’s support voiced their fury – aimed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. The board are thought to be considering to return to Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful interim spell before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. Yet by saying that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. The message is the turnaround is near, imminently close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

The coach remains focused on the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. Indeed, were it not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I must remain objective.

“The standard we had at stages was exceptionally high. That happened. And I would not say that if it was not the case. That is the reason, in terms of results, I noted this is the same story. For that reason I feel a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Right now: small things.”

“There were plenty of positives that we did, like today again. The issue now is consistency. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer we’re going to be able to get back on track.”

Röhl’s Cautious Stance

The victorious boss played down talk of a title charge in spite of what appeared to be a huge result. “Step by step, then we can develop something here,” he said. “The belief in the squad is immense.”