Nancy Remains Resolute After His Team's Home Defeat to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in eight games.
The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other opportunities.
However, their city rivals fought back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "The result 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 throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's reality. 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 frustration, 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."
Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so obvious."
"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 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 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 poor 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 improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.