Nancy Stands Defiant Following His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The French manager praised an "outstanding" 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 Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, exposing the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the later result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."
"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the players or the game plan, 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 understand the disappointment, 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 talk like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by reiterating, "We are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken 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 facilitated this should be shown the door 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 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 movie 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 Growing Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 self-explanatory.
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.