Nancy Remains Defiant Following Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat 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 took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of clear chances.
Yet, their city rivals fought back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."
"In the second half, we conceded three goals from set-pieces. It's tough 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."
"We are really close, there are many things that can be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He concluded by stressing, "We are together with the board."
Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap between the manager and the team is so stark."
"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who allowed this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "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 right 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 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 been appointed in the first place, but he'll be used as the fall guy. We don't have 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.