Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.

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

Yet, their city rivals roared back in the second period, exposing the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift leaders Hearts subject to the later result.

Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "It 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 players or the tactics, this is about key instances."

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

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

Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh 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 happened. The people on the board who facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the problem: "The problems are not 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 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 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 Change

The full-time mood among supporters was one of anger and calls for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.