Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.
The French manager hailed an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.
However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, exposing the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the later result.
Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals."
"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about me, this is about letting down the fans because I know 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 turn around. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by reiterating, "We are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt 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 disconnect between the manager and the team is so obvious."
"It is not something that can continue and it should not have happened. The people on the board who allowed this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the issue: "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 give, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "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."
Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among supporters was one of anger and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single 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 completely to blame. I feel sorry for Nancy as he should never got the job in the first place, but he'll be used as the scapegoat. We lack the players for his system.
Andy: Nancy has to go. I've been one of those hoping to give him a chance, but there is no progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.