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The under-pressure manager declared he was not afraid of dismissal, claiming, “The team is extremely close to things turning around,” in the wake of edging perilously close to the chopping block with a comprehensive defeat by the Ibrox side.

A Second-Half Collapse Results in Old Firm Defeat

The home side had led the visitors at half-time but a collapse after the break allowed Rangers to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was brought in in December, has now presided over six losses in eight matches.

“We are together at the club,” insisted Nancy.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, the 48-year-old replied: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on working out methods to get the team to be good on details.

Fan Fury On Display

The fans made their feelings clear – directed at the dugout and directors – by protesting at full time. The hierarchy are reportedly likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the truth for the moment. Yet when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am pessimistic. Absolutely not. My point is we are really close, imminently close to reverse our form.”

Nancy’s Persistent Belief

The coach highlights the fact his team play well for a half at a time. Indeed, if not for missed chances they could have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit except the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I accept that we lost, but I have also to be objective.

“The level we had at certain moments was really, really, really high. This is the reality. And I would not say that if it was untrue. But that’s why, in terms of results, I noted it's a repeating pattern. Which is why I said that we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Currently: small things.”

“We produced many, many good things that we did, once more. But now it’s about consistency. My message would change if I didn't believe it. This is why I firmly believe we will manage to get back on track.”

Opposition Reaction Stance

Rangers manager was cautious about a championship push even after what seemed like a landmark win. “Step by step, so we can develop momentum,” he said. “The faith in the squad is excellent.”