Wilfried Nancy Remains Defiant Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.

The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half performance 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 roared 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 sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts depending on the later result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from set-pieces. It's difficult 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 disappointing the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can understand the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable to do."

"I believe 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 turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "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 carry on and it should not have occurred. 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 pinpointed 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 remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."

"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to change, 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 doesn't do that."

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

The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't react. 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 bad players all of a sudden. The answer is self-explanatory.

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 fall guy. 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 progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.