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The under-pressure manager stated he was not afraid of losing his job, claiming, “The team is very near to a turnaround,” in the wake of edging perilously close to being fired with a heavy setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Collapse Leads to Derby Loss

Celtic were in front the visitors at the interval but a second-half capitulation enabled Rangers to pull level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The former MLS manager, who was hired from the MLS, has now presided over six setbacks in his last eight matches.

“There is unity at the club,” stated the manager.

Pressed on his own future, the 48-year-old responded: “I don’t think about it. I concentrate on working out methods to help my team to improve on small moments.

Fan Fury Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support made their feelings clear – directed at the hierarchy – by gathering outside the stadium. Club directors are thought to be considering to bring back the former boss, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the reality for the moment. Yet in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. No. The message is the turnaround is near, imminently close to change the narrative.”

“Really, Really Close”

He highlights the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, were it not for poor finishing they would have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we missed a second goal,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The standard we had at times was of top quality. That happened. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was untrue. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I feel we are nearly there to getting it right. Right now: small things.”

“There were plenty of positives that we did, like today again. The issue now comes down to consistency. My outlook would change if it was not the case. Therefore I am convinced we’re going to be able to fix this.”

The Rangers Boss Stance

Danny Röhl was cautious about a serious challenge even after what seemed like a landmark win. “We take it game by game, so we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the team is outstanding.”