Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in eight games.

The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back after the break, exposing the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts depending on the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we required 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 moments."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable to do."

"I believe 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 really believe we can reverse our fortunes."

He finished by stressing, "We are together with the board."

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so obvious."

"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have occurred. 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 problem: "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 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 concluded: "We've seen this story 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 Growing Calls for Change

The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of anger 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 react. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very clear for all to see 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 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 hoping to give him a chance, but there is no improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.