The Celtic boss insisted he did not fear the sack, maintaining, “I believe we are very near to things turning around,” in the wake of moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing loss to the Ibrox side.
The Hoops had led the visitors at half-time but a collapse after the break let Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was appointed from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six losses in his first eight fixtures.
“We are together with the board,” stated Nancy.
Pressed on whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old replied: “It’s not on my mind. I concentrate on finding ways to aid my players to improve on the fine details.
The fans made their feelings clear – towards the dugout and directors – by gathering at full time. The hierarchy would be most likely to bring back the former boss, who steered the club during a temporary stint previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. However when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am giving up. No. My point is the turnaround is near, imminently close to turn things around.”
Nancy remains focused on the fact his team can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, if not for wastefulness in front of goal they could have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” 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. I wouldn't say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, in terms of results, I mentioned this is the same story. Which is why I said that we are really close to a shift in fortunes. Right now: details, details, details.”
“There were plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. However is consistency. My outlook would be different if I didn't believe it. That’s why I firmly believe the team can to fix this.”
The victorious boss refused to contemplate a serious challenge despite what appeared to be a huge result. “Step by step, then we can really build up momentum,” he said. “The belief in the group is outstanding.”