Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in eight games.
The French manager hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, exposing the Celtic's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals."
"In the second half, we let in three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable to do."
"I believe we are really close, there are many things that can be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."
He finished by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap between the manager and the team is so obvious."
"It is not something that can continue and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who allowed this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape at the back and the ability to defend."
Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds added: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."
"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to give, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "We've seen this movie before with Nancy's Celtic."
"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team doesn't do that."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among supporters was one of anger and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!
Iain: It's very clear for all to see that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. These players are not poor players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.
James: The board are completely to blame. I feel sorry for Nancy as he should never been appointed in the first place, but he'll be used as the scapegoat. We don't have the players for his system.
Andy: Nancy has to go. I've been one of those wanting to give him a chance, but there is no progress. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.