🔗 Share this article

Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “The team is really close to a turnaround,” in the wake of edging perilously close to the exit with a convincing loss to their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Capitulation Leads to Derby Defeat

Celtic were ahead the visitors at half-time but a disastrous second period let the Gers to pull level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six defeats in his last eight fixtures.

“The board and I are united with the board,” insisted the manager.

Questioned about his own future, the 48-year-old replied: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on working out methods to get the team to excel on details.

Protest Erupts

The fans displayed their anger – aimed at the board and manager – in their hundreds outside the stadium. The board would be most likely to return to the former boss, who steered the club during a caretaker period previously, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the truth for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. What I mean we are on the cusp, really, really close to change the narrative.”

Focus on the Details

The coach remains focused on the fact his team show good levels for a half at a time. For instance, if not for poor finishing they might have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The level we had at stages was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I could not talk like that if it was untrue. That is the reason, in terms of results, I mentioned we've seen this before. For that reason I believe a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Currently: the fine margins.”

“We produced plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. The issue now is sustaining it. My narrative would be different the same. That’s why I am convinced the team can to get back on track.”

The Rangers Boss Outlook

Rangers manager refused to contemplate a title charge despite what felt like a landmark win. “One match at a time, and we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the team is immense.”