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The Celtic boss declared he was not afraid of the sack, maintaining, “The team is very near to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to being fired with a comprehensive defeat by their arch-rivals.

Another Collapse Sees Derby Loss

The Hoops were in front their oldest rivals at the break but a disastrous second period allowed Rangers to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from the MLS, has now overseen six defeats in his first eight matches.

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

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, he responded: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on discovering solutions to aid my players to be good on details.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

The fans displayed their anger – aimed at the hierarchy – by gathering at full time. The board would be most likely to re-appoint the former boss, who had a fruitful interim spell last year, if Nancy departs.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. But in stating that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am a defeatist guy. No. The message is we are really close, imminently close to reverse our form.”

“Really, Really Close”

He continues to cling to the fact Celtic can perform strongly for one half at a time. For instance, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “I saw enough other than the fact that we haven’t scored a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The standard we had at times was exceptionally high. This is the reality. I could not say that if it was untrue. That is the reason, in terms of results, I noted it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I feel we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: the fine margins.”

“There were many, many good things that we did, once more. However it’s about consistency. My message would not be the same. This is why I am convinced the team can to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Stance

The victorious boss played down talk of a serious challenge despite what felt like a landmark win. “One match at a time, and we can gradually build something here,” he said. “The faith in the team is outstanding.”