Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers

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

The French manager hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other clear chances.

However, their city rivals fought 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 result sees Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the later result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can understand the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."

"We are really close, there are many things that can turn around. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict 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 obvious."

"It is not something that can carry on 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 identified the problem: "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 added: "As much as Rangers have done the correct 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 full-time mood among supporters was one of frustration and demand for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 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 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.