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" despite a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.

The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of opportunities.

However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This result sees Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable 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 turn things around."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The gap 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 facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "The problems aren't 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 remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the right things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."

"Celtic have just collapsed. 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 doesn't do that."

Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of frustration and demand 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 clear for all to see that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.