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The under-pressure manager declared he was not afraid of losing his job, maintaining, “We are really close to a turnaround,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a heavy loss to their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Meltdown Leads to Old Firm Defeat

The Hoops were in front Rangers at the interval but a disastrous second period allowed the Gers to pull level on points with the reigning league title holders. Nancy, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now presided over six setbacks in his first eight matches.

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

Pressed on his own future, he responded: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on finding ways to help my team to improve on the fine details.

Protest Erupts

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – directed at the hierarchy – by protesting at full time. Club directors would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. Yet when I say that’s how it is, I am not saying that I am giving up. No. What I mean the turnaround is near, extremely close to reverse our form.”

Focus on the Details

He remains focused on the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, were it not for missed chances they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives other than the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.

“The level we had at times was exceptionally high. That happened. I wouldn't say that if it was not the case. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I mentioned we've seen this before. Which is why I believe we are really close to things turning around. But for the moment: small things.”

“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. However it’s about sustaining it. My message would be different the same. Therefore I firmly believe we’re going to be able to turn things around.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

The victorious boss refused to contemplate a serious challenge despite what felt like a statement victory. “We take it game by game, then we can develop something here,” he said. “The faith in the team is excellent.”