Nancy Stands Resolute After His Team's Home Defeat to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat 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 took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts depending on the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we required more goals."
"In the second half, we conceded three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."
"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 truly believe we can turn things around."
He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so stark."
"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed 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 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 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 Mounting Calls for His Departure
The full-time mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like amateurs. 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 self-explanatory.
James: The board are completely 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 lack 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.