Unbowed Celtic's manager insists he is not worried about being fired however the Parkhead faithful display fury following defeat.
The under-pressure manager declared he had no concerns about dismissal, maintaining, “I believe we are extremely close to changing our fortunes,” despite edging perilously close to the chopping block with a comprehensive defeat by the Ibrox side.
Another Meltdown Leads to Derby Defeat
Celtic had led their oldest rivals at half-time but a second-half capitulation allowed Rangers to pull level on points with the defending league title holders. The French coach, who was brought in from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in eight fixtures.
“There is unity with the board,” stated the manager.
Pressed on the speculation, he responded: “That’s not my focus. I concentrate on discovering solutions to aid my players to be good on small moments.
Supporters' Anger On Display
The fans displayed their anger – aimed at the hierarchy – by protesting outside the stadium. The board would be most likely to return to the interim manager, who steered the club during a interim spell before Nancy was hired, should a change be made.
“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. Yet when I say that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. My point is the turnaround is near, extremely close to turn things around.”
“Really, Really Close”
He continues to cling to the fact his team can perform strongly for one half at a time. Indeed, but for missed chances they would have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives other than the fact that we didn't take a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be fair.
“The level we had at times was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was untrue. That is the reason, in terms of results, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. That’s why I believe we are nearly there to getting it right. Currently: details, details, details.”
“There were a lot of encouraging signs that we did, as was the case today. But now is performing for 90 minutes. My outlook would change if I didn't believe it. That’s why I am convinced we will manage to get back on track.”
Röhl’s Cautious Response
Danny Röhl refused to contemplate a serious challenge in spite of what seemed like a statement victory. “We take it game by game, and we can develop something here,” he said. “The belief in the squad is excellent.”
