Wilfried Nancy Remains Defiant After His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in their last eight outings.
The French manager praised an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.
However, their city rivals fought back in the second period, exposing the Celtic'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 depending on the later result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It 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 reality. 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 understand the meaning of this game. I can appreciate 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 speak like this. I truly believe we can turn things around."
He concluded by stressing, "We are together with the board."
Analysts Give Blunt Assessment 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 continue 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 issue: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape at the back and the defensive qualities."
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 movie before with Nancy's Celtic."
"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team doesn't do that."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one way of playing and can't react. Get him out now!
Iain: It's very painfully obvious 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 fall guy. 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 improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.