Nancy Stands Defiant Following His Team'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 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in their last eight outings.
The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, exposing the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we required 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 individuals 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 appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable to do."
"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 really believe we can turn things around."
He finished by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated 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 shown the door 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 organisation 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 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 His Departure
The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!
Iain: It's very painfully obvious 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 wanting to give him a chance, but there is no progress. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.
