Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of clear chances.
Yet, their city rivals fought back after the break, exposing the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind table-toppers Hearts depending on the later result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required more goals."
"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about key instances."
"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can understand the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable to do."
"We are really close, there are many things that can be improved. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so stark."
"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have happened. The people on the board who facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the ability to defend."
Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds added: "As much as Rangers have done the right things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."
"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to change, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "We've seen this story 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 Growing Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like amateurs. Nancy has one way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!
Iain: It's very painfully obvious that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's system. These players are not poor players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.
James: The board are wholly to blame. I feel sorry for Nancy as he should never been appointed in the first place, but he'll be used as the fall guy. We lack 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 improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.