Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat 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 damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.

The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts fought 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 sees Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It 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 individuals or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning 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 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 stressing, "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 analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect 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 absolute state."

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

Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds added: "As much as Rangers have done the right things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."

"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to change, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "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 Mounting Calls for His Departure

The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one way of playing and can't react. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very painfully obvious that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.