Wilfried Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared 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 marks a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The French manager hailed an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of opportunities.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "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 difficult 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 me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can understand the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."
"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 truly believe we can turn things around."
He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken 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 allowed this should be removed 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 organisation at the back and the defensive qualities."
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 brutally bad."
"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to give, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "We've seen this movie before with Nancy's Celtic."
"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team doesn't do that."
Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The post-match mood among the fanbase 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 poor 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 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.