Unbowed Celtic's manager does not fear being fired yet supporters unleash fury following loss.
The under-pressure manager declared he had no concerns about the sack, asserting, “The team is very near to things turning around,” even after sliding worryingly close to being fired with a comprehensive loss to the Ibrox side.
A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Old Firm Disaster
Celtic had led their oldest rivals at half-time but a collapse after the break let the Gers to draw level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was hired from Columbus Crew, has now overseen six losses in his first eight fixtures.
“The board and I are united with the board,” insisted the manager.
Questioned about the speculation, he replied: “I don’t think about it. My focus is on finding ways to get the team to improve on details.
Protest Outside Parkhead
Hundreds of supporters displayed their anger – towards the hierarchy – by gathering at Parkhead. The hierarchy are thought to be considering to bring back Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period previously, if the Frenchman were sacked.
“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. And that’s the truth for the moment. However in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Not at all. My point is we are really close, really, really close to change the narrative.”
Focus on the Details
The coach remains focused on the fact the side show good levels for a half at a time. Indeed, were it not for wastefulness in front of goal they might have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives except the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I have also to be balanced.
“The performance we had at times was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I could not say that if it was different. But that’s why, in terms of results, I mentioned it's a repeating pattern. For that reason I feel 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. The issue now it’s about sustaining it. My message would be different the same. This is why I firmly believe the team can to get back on track.”
The Rangers Boss Response
The victorious boss played down talk of a title charge despite what appeared to be a landmark win. “We take it game by game, so we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The faith in the squad is excellent.”
