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The under-pressure manager stated he had no concerns about dismissal, maintaining, “The team is really close to changing our fortunes,” despite edging perilously close to the chopping block with a heavy loss to their arch-rivals.

Another Capitulation Sees Derby Loss

Celtic were ahead the visitors at the interval but a collapse after the break let Rangers to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The French coach, who was brought in in December, has now been in charge for six defeats in eight matches.

“There is unity with the board,” stated Nancy.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, Nancy said: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on working out methods to help my team to improve on the fine details.

Supporters' Anger On Display

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – directed at the dugout and directors – by protesting at full time. Club directors are reportedly likely to bring back the interim manager, who steered the club during a interim spell before Nancy was hired, if Nancy departs.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the situation for the moment. However in stating that’s how it is, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. What I mean we are really close, imminently close to reverse our form.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

He remains focused on the fact his team can perform strongly for a half at a time. Indeed, but for poor finishing they would have been more than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we didn't take our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.

“The standard we had at certain moments was of top quality. That is a fact. I could not talk like that if it was untrue. That is the reason, when it comes to wins, I mentioned we've seen this before. Which is why I said that a change is coming to getting it right. But for the moment: small things.”

“We produced plenty of positives that we did, as was the case today. The issue now it’s about sustaining it. My narrative would change if it was not the case. Therefore I am a big believer we will manage to fix this.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

Rangers manager played down talk of a championship push even after what appeared to be a landmark win. “Step by step, so we can really build up something here,” he said. “The belief in the squad is immense.”