Wilfried Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in eight games.
The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other clear chances.
Yet, their city rivals fought back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.
Speaking post-match, 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 set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about key instances."
"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can understand 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 speak like this. I really 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: "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 happened. The people on the board who allowed this should be removed 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 collapsed. Something has to give, 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting 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 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 got the job 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 progress. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.