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The under-pressure manager insisted he did not fear losing his job, maintaining, “The team is extremely close to things turning around,” even after sliding worryingly close to the exit with a comprehensive defeat by their arch-rivals.

Another Meltdown Leads to Derby Disaster

The Hoops had led the visitors at half-time but a collapse after the break allowed Rangers to pull level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was hired in December, has now been in charge for six losses in his last eight fixtures.

“The board and I are united with the board,” said Nancy.

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, Nancy replied: “That’s not my focus. I think about finding ways to aid my players to be good on small moments.

Protest Erupts

The fans displayed their anger – aimed at the board and manager – by protesting outside the stadium. The hierarchy would be most likely to re-appoint the interim manager, who had a fruitful temporary stint last year, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. But in stating this is the reality, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. My point is we are really close, really, really close to turn things around.”

Focus on the Details

He remains focused on the fact his team can perform strongly for 45 minutes at a time. For instance, if not for poor finishing they could have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but it's important to stay fair.

“The level we had at stages was of top quality. This is the reality. And I would not talk like that if it was different. But that’s why, when it comes to wins, I noted we've seen this before. For that reason I said that a change is coming to things turning around. But for the moment: the fine margins.”

“I saw many, many good things that we did, once more. But now it’s about consistency. My narrative would be different the same. That’s why I am a big believer we will manage to turn things around.”

Opposition Reaction Stance

Rangers manager refused to contemplate a title charge even after what seemed like a huge result. “We take it game by game, and we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The belief in the team is excellent.”