Nancy Stands Defiant Following His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth loss in eight games.

The French manager 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 opportunities.

Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, exposing the Celtic's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind leaders Hearts subject to the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "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 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 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 truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "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 continue and it should not have happened. The people on the board who facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the issue: "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 correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."

"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to change, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "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: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, 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 clear for all to see 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 hoping to give him a chance, but there is no improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.