Bullish Celtic's manager insists he is not worried about being fired yet the Parkhead faithful unleash anger after defeat.

Wilfried Nancy stated he was not afraid of the sack, asserting, “I believe we are very near to a turnaround,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the exit with a comprehensive defeat by the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Derby Defeat

The home side were ahead their oldest rivals at the interval but a collapse after the break enabled Rangers to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was hired in December, has now been in charge for six defeats in eight matches.

“The board and I are united at the club,” said the manager.

Questioned about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old replied: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on working out methods to get the team to improve on the fine details.

Fan Fury Erupts

The fans made their feelings clear – aimed at the dugout and directors – by protesting outside the stadium. The hierarchy are thought to be considering to return to the interim manager, who had a fruitful interim spell last year, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. But in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Not at all. What I mean the turnaround is near, really, really close to reverse our form.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

The coach continues to cling to the fact Celtic can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but it's important to stay balanced.

“The standard we had at times was of top quality. That is a fact. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was not the case. That is the reason, in terms of results, I noted it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that a change is coming to getting it right. Currently: details, details, details.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, once more. But now comes down to sustaining it. My message would change if I didn't believe it. That’s why I firmly believe we’re going to be able to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Response

Rangers manager refused to contemplate a serious challenge even after what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, and we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the squad is immense.”