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Wilfried Nancy declared he did not fear losing his job, asserting, “We are really close to changing our fortunes,” even after sliding worryingly close to the chopping block with a heavy setback against their arch-rivals.

Another Meltdown Sees Derby Loss

The Hoops had led Rangers at the interval but a collapse after the break enabled Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the defending league title holders. Nancy, who was appointed from the MLS, has now presided over six defeats in eight games.

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

Questioned about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old responded: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on finding ways to aid my players to improve on the fine details.

Supporters' Anger Erupts

Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – aimed at the dugout and directors – by gathering at full time. Club directors are thought to be considering to bring back Martin O’Neill, 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]. And that’s the situation for the moment. But when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am giving up. Not at all. My point is we are on the cusp, imminently close to change the narrative.”

“Really, Really Close”

Nancy highlights the fact his team can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, were it not for missed chances they would have been more than 1-0 up. “I saw enough aside from the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain fair.

“The level we had at stages was really, really, really high. That happened. I wouldn't say that if it was different. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I mentioned we've seen this before. For that reason I believe a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. But for the moment: the fine margins.”

“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, like today again. The issue now is sustaining it. My narrative would be different the same. That’s why I am convinced we will manage to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Outlook

Rangers manager played down talk of a championship push even after what felt like a landmark win. “Step by step, then we can develop something here,” he said. “The confidence in the group is outstanding.”