Wilfried Nancy stated he was not afraid of losing his job, asserting, “I believe we are extremely close to things turning around,” despite edging perilously close to the exit with a convincing defeat by the Ibrox side.
Celtic had led Rangers at the break but a second-half capitulation enabled Rangers to pull level on points with the current league title holders. Nancy, who was hired from the MLS, has now presided over six losses in his last eight matches.
“The board and I are united at the club,” said the manager.
Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. I think about working out methods to aid my players to excel on the fine details.
The fans made their feelings clear – directed at the hierarchy – in their hundreds outside the stadium. Club directors are reportedly likely to bring back Martin O’Neill, who had a fruitful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. However by saying that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. The message is we are on the cusp, imminently close to change the narrative.”
The coach remains focused on the fact his team show good levels for one half at a time. Indeed, were it not for missed chances they could have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain fair.
“The performance we had at times was exceptionally high. That is a fact. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was different. Therefore, when it comes to wins, I said it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: details, details, details.”
“I saw plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. The issue now is performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. This is why I am convinced we’re going to be able to turn things around.”
Rangers manager refused to contemplate a championship push even after what seemed like a huge result. “Step by step, and we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”
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