Nancy Remains Resolute After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.
Yet, their city rivals roared back in the second period, exposing the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we required more goals."
"In the second half, we conceded 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 key instances."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand 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 really believe we can turn things around."
He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Untenable 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 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 complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed 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 right things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."
"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to give, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "We've seen this story before with Nancy's Celtic."
"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team doesn't do that."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The full-time mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single 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 system. These players are not bad players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.
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 fall guy. 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.