Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant After Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks 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 spurned several other clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the later result.

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

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can appreciate 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 speak like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

He finished by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Analysts Give Stark Assessment on Celtic's Situation

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

"It is not something that can carry on 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 pinpointed the problem: "The problems aren't 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 added: "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 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 doesn't do that."

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

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

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 adapt. 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 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 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.