Unbowed Wilfried Nancy insists he is not worried about being fired yet the Parkhead faithful display wrath after loss.
Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear losing his job, asserting, “The team is really close to things turning around,” despite sliding worryingly close to the exit with a heavy setback against their arch-rivals.
Another Collapse Results in Derby Disaster
The Hoops were ahead their oldest rivals at the interval but a second-half capitulation allowed the Gers to draw level on points with the reigning league title holders. The French coach, who was brought in from the MLS, has now overseen six setbacks in his first eight fixtures.
“The board and I are united with the board,” said Nancy.
Pressed on his own future, he responded: “That’s not my focus. I think about working out methods to get the team to be good on small moments.
Protest On Display
Celtic’s support displayed their anger – directed at the board and manager – by gathering outside the stadium. The board are reportedly likely to return to the former boss, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. No. What I mean we are on the cusp, extremely close to reverse our form.”
Nancy’s Persistent Belief
Nancy highlights the fact his team can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, were it not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain fair.
“The performance we had at times was really, really, really high. That happened. I could not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I believe a change is coming to things turning around. Currently: small things.”
“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, as was the case today. The issue now is sustaining it. My narrative would change the same. This is why I am convinced we’re going to be able to get back on track.”
Röhl’s Cautious Outlook
Danny Röhl played down talk of a championship push even after what felt like a statement victory. “One match at a time, then we can gradually build something here,” he said. “The confidence in the group is outstanding.”