Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant Following His Team's Derby Loss to City Rivals

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat 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 went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back after the break, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the later result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down 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 concluded by reiterating, "We are together with the board."

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so obvious."

"It is not something that can continue and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who allowed 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 added: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."

"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to give, 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 doesn't do that."

Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 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 self-explanatory.

James: The board are completely 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.