Nancy Remains Resolute Following His Team's Home Defeat to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of opportunities.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the later 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 throw-ins. It's tough 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 know the significance of this game. I can understand 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 really believe we can turn things around."
He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so stark."
"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 pinpointed the issue: "The problems aren't 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 correct 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."
Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like a pub team. 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 style. These players are not bad players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.
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 scapegoat. 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 improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.