Nancy Remains Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in their last eight outings.

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

Yet, their city rivals roared back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more 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 moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the meaning of this game. I can understand the frustration, 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 speak like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Analysts Give 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 disconnect between the manager and the team is so obvious."

"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have happened. The people on the board who facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "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 remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the right things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."

"Celtic have just capitulated. 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: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The full-time mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls 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 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 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 improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.