Nancy Remains Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.
The French manager hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of clear chances.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts depending on the later result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals."
"In the second half, we let in three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about key instances."
"This is not about me, 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 capable 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 finished by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Stark 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 stark."
"It is not something that can continue and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who facilitated 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 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 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change
The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!
Iain: It's very painfully obvious 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 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 fall guy. 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 progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.
