Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy says he remains unconcerned by his team’s poor run of form, expressing confidence that they will bounce back despite Thursday’s Europa League defeat to AS Roma, SportPremi reports.
The former Columbus Crew manager made unwanted history on Thursday night, as he became the first Celtic manager to lose his first two games in charge of the club.
Nancy, 48, who took over earlier this month from interim manager Martin O’Neill, but is already under pressure following two subpar showings by the Hoops.
The Scottish champions suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat in front of their home supporters to the Italian side on Thursday night, dashing their hopes of a top eight finish.
Iheanacho returns, but Celtic suffer another defeat
Celtic had hoped to bounce back from last weekend’s 2-1 home defeat to Hearts in the Scottish league, but faced a tough task against the Italian side.
Liam Scales headed past his own goalkeeper after six minutes to give Roma a deserved lead, following a fast start.
Evan Ferguson then netted twice in 10 minutes to increase the scoreline and put the visitors 3-0 ahead heading into the break.
Celtic were given a lifeline back into the game, but Arne Engels hit the post frok the penalty spot as they went into the tunnel to loud boos by their own supporters.
Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho made his long-awaited return from injury at the interval and almost an immediate impact.
The Nigerian striker found the back of the net later in the half, although it was ruled out for offside in the buildup.
The game ended with no further goals as Celtic drop to 24th on the Europa League standings, while AS Roma move to 10th position.
Nancy reacts to Celtic defeat
Wilfried Nancy would have hoped for an easier start to his managerial career at Celtic, but has now lost both of his games in charge of the club.
The former Columbus Crew manager is however confident that his side will bounce back from their poor displays.
“The reality is we are not able to cope with the intensity. And they tried to do well, but the first half was difficult. We were not able to come out of the pressure.
“We had a few moments where we unbalanced them, but we didn’t keep the edge that we had. That’s why it was difficult. And as soon as we had a bit of time to play forward, we didn’t take the good decision, but it was not easy for my players”, the 48-year-old stated.
“I really liked the second half, good reaction. We played with a little bit more proximity between players to escape the pressure. And we started a little bit more after that.
“I don’t like to talk about luck, but the first goal that we conceded didn’t help. To come from behind was not easy. So, listen, the attitude was good.
“The second half was better, but it was not enough. I cannot tell you that they didn’t try. They tried. We should have been able to connect a little bit more, but we didn’t do it. So, again, this is the situation. I’m not concerned because I really like the reaction”, Nancy continued.
“And for me, this is the most important. They deserve at least to score one goal to see after that if the dynamic can change. I saw already good things. After that, the result is not what we want, for sure. But I saw already good things. Today, I saw good things.
“I would like the results to change today. But, again, we play to win games, but the reality is this is not the situation. And we had also hit the post in the last game”, the former Montreal manager concluded.
Celtic return to action on in the Scottish Cup final on Sunday when they face St Mirren, as Nancy will be eyeing a first silverware at the club.
