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 expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat 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 a number of clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back after the break, exposing the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third 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.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "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 set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, 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."

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

Pundits Deliver Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh 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 carry on and it should not have happened. The people on the board who allowed this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the problem: "The problems aren't 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 remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the correct 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 concluded: "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: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change

The post-match mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 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 fall guy. We don't have 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 refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.