Nancy Stands Defiant Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals

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

The French manager 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 in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This result means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers 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 throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about key instances."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable 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 turn things around."

He concluded by stressing, "We are together with the board."

Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal take: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken 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 occurred. 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 issue: "The problems are not high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape 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 change, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "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 full-time mood among supporters 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 painfully obvious that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's system. 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 improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.