Nancy Remains Defiant After His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.
However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This result sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.
Addressing the media, 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 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 understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable to do."
"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, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation
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 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 absolute state."
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 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 woefully poor."
"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to change, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "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."
Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, 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 system. These players are not poor 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 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 refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.