Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks 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.
However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts depending on the later 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 tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're able 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 talk like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He concluded by stressing, "We are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "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 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 pinpointed the issue: "The problems are not high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the defensive qualities."
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 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."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time 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 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.