Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat to City Rivals

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in eight games.

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other opportunities.

Yet, their city rivals roared back after the break, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed 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 tactics, 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 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 speak like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

He concluded by reiterating, "We are together with the board."

Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Unworkable 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 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 change, 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 don't do that."

Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change

The full-time 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 adapt. 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 self-explanatory.

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 wanting 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.