Nancy Stands Resolute After Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.
The Frenchman praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of clear chances.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, exposing the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves 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 needed more goals."
"In the second half, we conceded three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about key instances."
"This is not about me, 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 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 truly believe we can turn things around."
He finished by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal take: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated 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 allowed this should be shown the door 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 organisation 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 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 His Departure
The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like amateurs. 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 bad 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 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.
