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

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of clear chances.

However, their city rivals roared back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts depending on the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome 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 reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can appreciate 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 speak like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap between the manager and the team is so obvious."

"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have occurred. 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 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 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 Growing Calls for His Departure

The post-match mood among supporters was one of anger and demand for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very painfully obvious that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. These players are not bad 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 improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.