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The Celtic boss stated he was not afraid of the sack, maintaining, “I believe we are really close to changing our fortunes,” despite edging perilously close to being fired with a comprehensive defeat by their arch-rivals.

Another Capitulation Sees Old Firm Disaster

Celtic were ahead their oldest rivals at the interval but a second-half capitulation enabled the Gers to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was appointed from the MLS, has now presided over six losses in his last eight matches.

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

Asked directly about his own future, he said: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on discovering solutions to help my team to improve on small moments.

Fan Fury Erupts

Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – towards the hierarchy – by protesting at full time. The board would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who enjoyed a successful interim spell previously, should a change be made.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the situation for the moment. Yet when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. Not at all. What I mean we are really close, imminently close to turn things around.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He remains focused on the fact Celtic show good levels for a half at a time. In fact, if not for poor finishing they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives except the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.

“The standard we had at stages was exceptionally high. That happened. I could not talk like that if it was different. That is the reason, in terms of results, I noted it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I feel a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: small things.”

“I saw a lot of encouraging signs that we did, as was the case today. However is sustaining it. My outlook would change the same. Therefore I am a big believer we’re going to be able to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Stance

Rangers manager refused to contemplate a serious challenge despite what seemed like a statement victory. “Step by step, and we can really build up something here,” he said. “The faith in the team is excellent.”