Nancy Stands Resolute After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of clear chances.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we deserved more 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 individuals or the tactics, this is about key instances."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the meaning of this game. I can understand 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, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap between the manager and the team is so stark."
"It is not something that can continue and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified 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 added: "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 movie before with Nancy's Celtic."
"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team doesn't do that."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change
The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of anger and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 self-explanatory.
James: The board are wholly to blame. I feel sorry for Nancy as he should never got the job 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.