Defiant Celtic's manager insists he is not worried about dismissal yet the Parkhead faithful show anger following derby defeat.

The Celtic boss declared he was not afraid of the sack, asserting, “We are really close to a turnaround,” even after moving dangerously close to the exit with a comprehensive loss to their arch-rivals.

A Second-Half Collapse Results in Derby Disaster

The Hoops were ahead the visitors at the break but a collapse after the break allowed Danny Röhl’s team to move level on points with the defending league title holders. The former MLS manager, who was hired from the MLS, has now overseen six setbacks in his last eight games.

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

Pressed on the speculation, the 48-year-old replied: “It’s not on my mind. My focus is on finding ways to help my team to excel on details.

Supporters' Anger Outside Parkhead

Hundreds of supporters made their feelings clear – aimed at the board and manager – by gathering at Parkhead. The hierarchy would be most likely to return to Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful temporary stint last year, should a change be made.

“Wins and losses [that leads to pressure]. So this is the truth for the moment. Yet in stating that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am giving up. Not at all. My point is we are on the cusp, really, really close to reverse our form.”

Focus on the Details

The coach remains focused on the fact the side can perform strongly for one half at a time. For instance, were it not for poor finishing they would have been more than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit aside from the fact that we missed more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I must remain objective.

“The performance we had at stages was exceptionally high. That happened. I wouldn't say that if it was untrue. That is the reason, regarding outcomes, I mentioned this is the same story. Which is why I feel we are nearly there to a shift in fortunes. Currently: the fine margins.”

“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. The issue now is performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. Therefore I am convinced the team can to get back on track.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

The victorious boss played down talk of a championship push in spite of what felt like a huge result. “We take it game by game, and we can gradually build momentum,” he said. “The faith in the squad is immense.”

John Mendez
John Mendez

Elena is a tech enthusiast and digital strategist with over a decade of experience in analyzing emerging technologies and their impact on society.