Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" 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.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers draw 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 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 tactics, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, 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 concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal 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 facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "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 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 don't do that."
Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of anger and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 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 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 scapegoat. 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.