Nancy Remains Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of opportunities.

Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, exposing the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening 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 let in three goals from set-pieces. It's difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can understand the frustration, 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 turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Unworkable 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 shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the issue: "The problems are not 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 added: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."

"Celtic have just collapsed. 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 Change

The full-time sentiment among supporters was one of frustration and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break 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 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 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.