Nancy Stands Resolute Following His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other opportunities.
However, 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 move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result 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 difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about key instances."
"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable to do."
"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."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "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 issue: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the defensive qualities."
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 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: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like a pub team. 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 completely 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 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.