Wilfried Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in eight games.
The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.
However, their city rivals fought back in the second period, exposing the home side's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required more goals."
"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. 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 understand the meaning of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're able 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 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 analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap between the manager and the team is so obvious."
"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 absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the problem: "The problems aren't 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 remarked: "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 give, 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 don't do that."
Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like amateurs. 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 style. These players are not bad players all of a sudden. The answer is self-explanatory.
James: The board are completely 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 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 progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.