The under-pressure manager insisted he did not fear dismissal, maintaining, “I believe we are very near to a turnaround,” despite edging perilously close to being fired with a comprehensive loss to their arch-rivals.
Celtic were in front Rangers at the break but a collapse after the break allowed Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the reigning league title holders. The French coach, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six defeats in his last eight games.
“There is unity at the club,” said the manager.
Pressed on the speculation, he said: “I don’t think about it. I think about finding ways to get the team to be good on the fine details.
Hundreds of supporters made their feelings clear – towards the board and manager – by gathering outside the stadium. The board are reportedly likely to bring back the former boss, who steered the club during a caretaker period last year, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. However by saying this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. Absolutely not. What I mean we are really close, extremely close to reverse our form.”
Nancy remains focused on the fact Celtic can perform strongly for a half at a time. Indeed, but for poor finishing they would have been more than 1-0 up. “There were positives except the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain objective.
“The level we had at stages was exceptionally high. That is a fact. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was untrue. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said we've seen this before. That’s why I believe we are nearly there to things turning around. Right now: details, details, details.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. However comes down to sustaining it. My outlook would be different if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am convinced we’re going to be able to get back on track.”
Rangers manager played down talk of a title charge in spite of what felt like a huge result. “Step by step, then we can develop momentum,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is outstanding.”
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