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The Celtic boss insisted he did not fear the sack, asserting, “The team is really close to things turning around,” despite moving dangerously close to being fired with a convincing setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Collapse Leads to Derby Loss

The Hoops were ahead the visitors at half-time but a collapse after the break let Danny Röhl’s team to pull level on points with the current league title holders. The French coach, who was hired from Columbus Crew, has now been in charge for six defeats in his last eight games.

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

Pressed on the speculation, the 48-year-old said: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on working out methods to get the team to excel on small moments.

Protest Outside Parkhead

Hundreds of supporters voiced their fury – towards the board and manager – in their hundreds at full time. The hierarchy are thought to be considering to return to Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful interim spell last year, should a change be made.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. Yet when I say this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am pessimistic. No. What I mean we are really close, imminently close to turn things around.”

“Really, Really Close”

He continues to cling to the fact Celtic show good levels for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, were it not for poor finishing they would have been better than 1-0 up. “I saw enough except the fact that we didn't take more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain balanced.

“The level we had at certain moments was exceptionally high. This is the reality. I wouldn't speak so positively if it was not the case. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted this is the same story. Which is why I said that we are really close to things turning around. But for the moment: details, details, details.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, once more. The issue now it’s about sustaining it. My message would change if it was not the case. This is why I am convinced we will manage to turn things around.”

The Rangers Boss Outlook

The victorious boss played down talk of a title charge despite what felt like a statement victory. “We take it game by game, so we can gradually build a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the team is outstanding.”