Nancy Stands Resolute After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.

The Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

Yet, their city rivals roared back after the break, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

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

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're able 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 finished by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Pundits Deliver Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable 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 happened. The people on the board who allowed this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the ability to defend."

Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the correct 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."

Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

The post-match mood 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 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 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 hoping 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.