Nancy Remains Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat 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 represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman praised an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of opportunities.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the later result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required more goals."
"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, 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 able 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 reverse our fortunes."
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 brutal take: "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 carry on and it should not have happened. The people on the board who facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "The problems aren't 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 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 give, 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: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like amateurs. 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 system. These players are not poor 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 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 wanting to give him a chance, but there is no progress. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.