Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant Following Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.
The French manager hailed an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of opportunities.
Yet, their city rivals fought back after the break, exposing the Celtic's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind leaders Hearts depending on the later result.
Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome 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 the situation. 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 know 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 truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by stressing, "We are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt 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 gap 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 shown the door 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 shape at the back and the ability to defend."
Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."
"Celtic have just capitulated. 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."
Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change
The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has one way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!
Iain: It's very clear for all to see that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. 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 been appointed 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 hoping 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.