Nancy Remains Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.
The French manager praised an "outstanding" 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.
However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "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 throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, 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."
"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 really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
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 take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect 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 allowed this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "The problems are not 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 added: "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 change, 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like a pub team. 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 system. 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 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.