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The under-pressure manager insisted he had no concerns about the sack, asserting, “I believe we are very near to changing our fortunes,” even after sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a convincing setback against the Ibrox side.

Another Collapse Results in Derby Disaster

Celtic had led their oldest rivals at half-time but a collapse after the break allowed the Gers to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was appointed from the MLS, has now been in charge for six defeats in his first eight fixtures.

“The board and I are united at the club,” stated Nancy.

Questioned about the speculation, he responded: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on discovering solutions to help my team to improve on details.

Protest On Display

The fans made their feelings clear – directed at the dugout and directors – by gathering at Parkhead. Club directors would be most likely to re-appoint the interim manager, who had a fruitful caretaker period last year, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. The message is we are really close, really, really close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

Nancy continues to cling to the fact Celtic can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, but for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I must remain objective.

“The level we had at stages was of top quality. That is a fact. I wouldn't talk like that if it was different. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said we've seen this before. For that reason I feel we are nearly there to things turning around. Right now: details, details, details.”

“I saw plenty of positives that we did, once more. But now comes down to sustaining it. My message would not be the same. That’s why I firmly believe the team can to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Stance

Danny Röhl played down talk of a title charge even after what appeared to be a landmark win. “We take it game by game, then we can really build up something here,” he said. “The belief in the group is immense.”