Nancy Remains Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of opportunities.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought 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 sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the later result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more 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 the situation. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about key instances."
"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I know the significance 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 turn around. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He concluded by stressing, "We are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "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 absolute state."
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 woefully poor."
"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to change, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "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: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure
The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 style. 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 been appointed in the first place, but he'll be used as the scapegoat. We don't have 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 improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.