Nancy Remains Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in eight games.
The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of opportunities.
However, their Glasgow counterparts roared 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 result sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts depending on the later result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "It 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 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 understand the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable to do."
"I believe we are really close, there are many things that can turn around. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "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 allowed this should be shown the door 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 ability to defend."
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 capitulated. Something has to change, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "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."
Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like a pub team. 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 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 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 improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.