Wilfried Nancy Remains Defiant 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 "we can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in eight games.

The Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

Yet, their city rivals roared 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 sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can understand the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."

"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 truly believe we can turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Stark Assessment on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The disconnect 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 removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the problem: "The problems aren't 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 remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."

"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to give, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "We've seen this story before with Nancy's Celtic."

"You can score, but you've got to defend. This team don't do that."

Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change

The post-match mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for action.

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 clear for all to see that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. These players are not bad players all of a sudden. The answer is self-explanatory.

James: The board are wholly 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 don't have 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 progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.