Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains 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 performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.
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 third strike from Mikey Moore.
This result means Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.
Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required more goals."
"In the second half, we let in three goals from throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about me, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're able 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 speak like this. I truly believe we can turn things around."
He concluded by stressing, "We are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Unworkable 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 continue 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 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 right 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 movie before with Nancy's Celtic."
"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team don't do that."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break 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 bad 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 scapegoat. 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 improvement. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.
