Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.
The Frenchman hailed 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 opportunities.
However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "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 reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about moments."
"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, 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 concluded by reiterating, "We are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation
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 obvious."
"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 absolute state."
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 collapsed. Something has to change, 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among supporters was one of frustration and demand 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 adapt. 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 self-explanatory.
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 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 progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.