Nancy Remains Resolute After Celtic's Derby Loss 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 defeat in their last eight outings.

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other clear chances.

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

This outcome means Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.

Addressing the media, 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 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 meaning of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're able 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 truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Analysts Give Stark Assessment on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The gap 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 absolute state."

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 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 capitulated. Something has to change, 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 Growing Calls for His Departure

The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single 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 been appointed 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.