Nancy Remains Defiant Following His Team's Derby Loss 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 loss to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.

The Frenchman hailed 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, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

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

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "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 throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."

"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 really believe we can turn things around."

He concluded 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 analysis: "Untenable 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 removed 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 organisation 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 collapsed. Something has to change, 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 doesn't do that."

Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change

The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, 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 completely 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 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.

Amy Olson
Amy Olson

Elara is a seasoned travel writer and photographer who has explored over 50 countries, sharing unique cultural experiences and practical advice for fellow adventurers.