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The under-pressure manager insisted he had no concerns about dismissal, claiming, “I believe we are very near to things turning around,” despite sliding worryingly close to the exit with a convincing setback against Rangers.

A Second-Half Capitulation Leads to Derby Disaster

The home side were in front their oldest rivals at the interval but a second-half capitulation let the Gers to move level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. The French coach, who was hired in December, has now presided over six losses in his first eight matches.

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

Asked directly about whether he was concerned, he said: “That’s not my focus. I think about discovering solutions to aid my players to improve on details.

Supporters' Anger Erupts

The fans voiced their fury – towards the board and manager – by protesting at full time. Club directors would be most likely to bring back Martin O’Neill, who enjoyed a successful caretaker period last year, should a change be made.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. That is the situation for the moment. However when I say this is the reality, I am not saying that I am giving up. No. My point is we are on the cusp, extremely close to turn things around.”

“Really, Really Close”

He remains focused on the fact the side can perform strongly for one half at a time. For instance, were it not for wastefulness in front of goal they would have been better than 1-0 up. “The performance had merit other than the fact that we haven’t scored more goals,” he said. “I know that we lost, but I have also to be fair.

“The level we had at times was really, really, really high. That is a fact. I could not talk like that if it was different. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I mentioned this is the same story. That’s why I said that we are nearly there to things turning around. Currently: small things.”

“We produced plenty of positives that we did, once more. The issue now it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would change the same. Therefore I am a big believer we will manage to turn things around.”

Röhl’s Cautious Outlook

The victorious boss played down talk of a serious challenge in spite of what felt like a statement victory. “Step by step, then we can really build up a challenge,” he said. “The faith in the group is immense.”