Nancy Stands Defiant After Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together 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 eight games.

The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

Yet, their city rivals roared back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the later result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more 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 reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable 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 talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

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 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 removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the issue: "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 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 summed up: "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 full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, 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 painfully obvious that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's system. These players are not poor players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.

James: The board are wholly 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 hoping to give him a chance, but there is no improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.