Nancy Remains Resolute After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.
The French manager hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other opportunities.
Yet, their city rivals roared back in the second period, 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 end up six points adrift leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed 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 individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're able 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 talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."
He finished by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh 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 allowed this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "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 brutally bad."
"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to give, 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 don't do that."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't react. 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 self-explanatory.
James: The board are wholly to blame. I feel sorry for Nancy as he should never been appointed in the first place, but he'll be used as the fall guy. We don't have 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.