Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.
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.
Yet, their city rivals fought back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This result sees Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts depending on the later result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "It 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 individuals 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 capable to do."
"We are really close, there are many things that can turn around. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."
He finished 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 harsh take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The gap 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 removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
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 correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."
"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."
Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change
The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of anger and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.
