Nancy Stands Resolute Following His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers

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

The French manager 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 opportunities.

However, their city rivals fought back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders 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 conceded three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand 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 be improved. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark 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 allowed this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "The problems are not high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape at the back and the defensive qualities."

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 concluded: "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."

Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

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

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break 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 style. These players are not bad 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 wanting 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.