Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals

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

The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

However, their city rivals roared back in the second period, exposing the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third 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 subject to the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome 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 tactics, this is about key instances."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable 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 talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

He finished by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Analysts Give Blunt 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 continue and it should not have happened. The people on the board who allowed this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

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 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 give, 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change

The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of anger and calls 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 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 don't have 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 refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.