Nancy Remains Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager 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 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.

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

Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third 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 depending on the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome 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 reality. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about me, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the meaning 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 be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

He concluded by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Pundits Deliver Stark Assessment on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh 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 continue 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 complete disarray."

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 defensive qualities."

Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds added: "As much as Rangers have done the correct 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."

Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The post-match mood among the fanbase 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 one way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very clear for all to see 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 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 don't have 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.

Scott Smith
Scott Smith

A tech enthusiast and writer passionate about digital innovation and sharing knowledge with the community.

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