Nancy Remains Resolute Following His Team's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.
The Frenchman praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other clear chances.
However, their city rivals roared back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts depending on the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required 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 game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about me, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can understand 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 really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by stressing, "We are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The gap between the manager and the team is so obvious."
"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 complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "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 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."
Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure
The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 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.