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The under-pressure manager insisted he was not afraid of dismissal, asserting, “We are really close to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to the chopping block with a convincing setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Capitulation Results in Derby Loss

Celtic were ahead their oldest rivals at half-time but a collapse after the break let Rangers to pull level on points with the defending league title holders. Nancy, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six defeats in eight matches.

“There is unity at the club,” said Nancy.

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

Protest Erupts

Celtic’s support displayed their anger – directed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds at full time. Club directors are reportedly likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful caretaker period before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. However in stating that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. The message is the turnaround is near, extremely close to change the narrative.”

“Really, Really Close”

He highlights the fact his team show good levels for a half at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they could have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be fair.

“The performance we had at times was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was not the case. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. That’s why I said that we are nearly there to getting it right. But for the moment: small things.”

“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. The issue now is sustaining it. My narrative would not be if I didn't believe it. This is why I am a big believer we’re going to be able to fix this.”

The Rangers Boss Outlook

The victorious boss played down talk of a title charge even after what seemed like a huge result. “One match at a time, then we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the group is immense.”