Wilfried Nancy Remains Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.
The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, exposing the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed 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 players or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about me, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the meaning of this game. I can understand the frustration, 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 speak like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Stark Assessment on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable 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 removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified 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 correct 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 concluded: "We've seen this story before with Nancy's Celtic."
"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team don't do that."
Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The full-time sentiment among supporters was one of anger and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't react. Get him out now!
Iain: It's very painfully obvious that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's system. These players are not bad 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 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 wanting 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.