Wilfried Nancy Remains Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals

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 damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in eight games.

The French manager praised an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

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

This outcome means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the later result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we let in three goals from throw-ins. 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 me, 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 be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

He concluded by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Pundits Deliver Stark Assessment on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken 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 facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

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 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 collapsed. 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."

Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change

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

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single 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 poor players all of a sudden. The answer is self-explanatory.

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 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 progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.