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The under-pressure manager insisted he did not fear the sack, claiming, “I believe we are really close to changing our fortunes,” in the wake of sliding worryingly close to being fired with a heavy defeat by the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Meltdown Results in Derby Defeat

The Hoops were ahead their oldest rivals at the break but a collapse after the break let Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was appointed in December, has now overseen six setbacks in his last eight fixtures.

“The board and I are united at the club,” said the manager.

Questioned about his own future, Nancy replied: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on working out methods to aid my players to excel on small moments.

Fan Fury Erupts

Celtic’s support voiced their fury – aimed at the board and manager – by protesting at full time. The hierarchy would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful temporary stint last year, if Nancy departs.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. No. What I mean the turnaround is near, imminently close to reverse our form.”

“Really, Really Close”

He highlights the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, but for poor finishing they would have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be fair.

“The performance we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. That is a fact. And I would not speak so positively if it was not the case. That is the reason, in terms of results, I said it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I said that a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Right now: the fine margins.”

“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. But now it’s about consistency. My message would not be if it was not the case. This is why I firmly believe the team can to turn things around.”

The Rangers Boss Response

Rangers manager refused to contemplate a title charge even after what seemed like a huge result. “Step by step, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The faith in the group is immense.”