Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 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 passed up several other opportunities.
However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals 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 subject to the later result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "It 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 difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."
"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the meaning 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 talk like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by reiterating, "We are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "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 complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified 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 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 summed up: "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 Mounting Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of frustration and demand 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 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 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 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 improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.