Nancy Remains Defiant Following 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" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in eight games.
The French manager 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 clear chances.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, exposing the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts depending on the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we required more goals."
"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the meaning of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're able to do."
"We are really close, there are many things that can be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I truly believe we can turn things around."
He concluded by reiterating, "We are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
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 obvious."
"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have occurred. 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 are not 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 woefully poor."
"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to change, there is no doubt."
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "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 His Departure
The full-time sentiment among supporters was one of frustration and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time 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 self-explanatory.
James: The board are completely 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 progress. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.
