Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted 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 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.

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

Yet, their city rivals fought back in the second period, exposing the Celtic'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 leaders Hearts subject to the later result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded 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 disappointing the fans because I understand 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 speak like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Stark Assessment on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so obvious."

"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 identified the issue: "The problems are not 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 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."

Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change

The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for action.

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

Iain: It's very clear for all to see 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 got the job 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.