Veteran winger James Forrest has suggested that Celtic's last-gasp victory over Aberdeen on Sunday could prove to be a crucial turning point for embattled manager Wilfried Nancy.
A Nerve-Shredding Finale at Parkhead
The match at Celtic Park looked destined to extend Nancy's miserable start, despite Aberdeen playing the entire second half with only ten men. After taking the lead, Celtic were pegged back by a Kenan Bilalovic equaliser for the Dons, threatening to prolong the pressure on the new boss.
However, in a dramatic finale, Kieran Tierney fired Celtic back into the lead with just minutes remaining. James Forrest then sealed the vital three points by adding a third goal deep into stoppage time, securing a 3-1 win and handing Nancy his first victory since taking charge.
Forrest Hails Squad Character Amid Pressure
Speaking after the match, Forrest emphasised the resilience shown by the squad following four consecutive defeats. "Off the back of four defeats, then being ahead only for Aberdeen to equalise, I think it showed a lot of character from the boys," he said.
"I think you've seen that at the end, we scored two in the last five minutes and we looked strong. The fans were behind us as well. It definitely could be [a turning point]."
Forrest, the most decorated player in the current squad, admitted the recent weeks have been uniquely challenging, even compared to past successes. "I would say maybe nothing [I have experienced] really kind of like the last couple of weeks," he confessed, highlighting the need for unity.
Looking Ahead to the Festive Fixtures
The win provides a much-needed respite for Nancy, but the scrutiny will remain intense. Celtic now face a critical run of games against Livingston, Motherwell, and Rangers over the festive period.
Forrest stressed the importance of maintaining focus and building momentum. "We don't want to get carried away. It's still so early in the season," he cautioned. "But I think it just shows that we are together and I just look forward to Saturday now [against Livingston]. Every game is massive."
The player acknowledged the ever-present pressure at Celtic but backed the team's experience to handle the title race, which remains tightly contested. The hope for Nancy and the Celtic support is that this dramatic late show marks the true beginning of his tenure.
