Nancy Stands Defiant After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.

The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of opportunities.

However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening 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 let in three goals from throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, 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 truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

He concluded by stressing, "We 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 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 removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "The problems are not high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape 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 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 doesn't do that."

Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of frustration and demand 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 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 been appointed in the first place, but he'll be used as the scapegoat. We don't have 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.