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Wilfried Nancy insisted he did not fear the sack, maintaining, “The team is extremely close to things turning around,” despite sliding worryingly close to the exit with a comprehensive defeat by their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Collapse Results in Old Firm Loss

Celtic were in front the visitors at the interval but a second-half capitulation let Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was appointed in December, has now presided over six defeats in his first eight games.

“We are together at the club,” said the manager.

Pressed on whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old said: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on finding ways to help my team to excel on small moments.

Supporters' Anger On Display

Celtic’s support voiced their fury – directed at the board and manager – by gathering outside the stadium. Club directors would be most likely to bring back the former boss, who steered the club during a temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the reality for the moment. Yet in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. The message is we are really close, extremely close to change the narrative.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He highlights the fact the side play well for 45 minutes at a time. In fact, but for missed chances they could have been greater than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay balanced.

“The level we had at times was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I wouldn't talk like that if it was untrue. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I said it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I feel a change is coming to getting it right. Right now: details, details, details.”

“There were plenty of positives that we did, once more. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would be different if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am convinced we’re going to be able to fix this.”

Röhl’s Cautious Stance

Rangers manager played down talk of a title charge despite what appeared to be a landmark win. “Step by step, then we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The confidence in the team is immense.”