Nancy Remains Defiant After Celtic's Home Defeat to City Rivals

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.

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

However, their city rivals fought 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 sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we required more goals."

"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's difficult to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about moments."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance 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 turn around. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Pundits Deliver Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The gap 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 absolute state."

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 woefully poor."

"Celtic have just collapsed. 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

The full-time mood among supporters was one of frustration and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. 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 poor players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.

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 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.