The Celtic boss declared he did not fear dismissal, asserting, “I believe we are extremely close to a turnaround,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to the exit with a convincing loss to their arch-rivals.
Celtic were ahead the visitors at the break but a collapse after the break let Danny Röhl’s team to draw level on points with the defending Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was brought in from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six losses in eight fixtures.
“We are together at the club,” insisted Nancy.
Pressed on his own future, the 48-year-old responded: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on discovering solutions to aid my players to improve on small moments.
Celtic’s support voiced their fury – directed at the board and manager – in their hundreds outside the stadium. The board would be most likely to re-appoint Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful temporary stint last year, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. However by saying that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. No. The message is the turnaround is near, extremely close to change the narrative.”
He highlights the fact the side play well for a half at a time. Indeed, were it not for missed chances they might have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives except the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The standard we had at certain moments was of top quality. That happened. I could not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted this is the same story. Which is why I said that a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: small things.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. The issue now is sustaining it. My outlook would change the same. This is why I firmly believe we’re going to be able to get back on track.”
Danny Röhl was cautious about a serious challenge despite what appeared to be a statement victory. “Step by step, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The confidence in the squad is excellent.”
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