Nancy Stands Resolute Following His Team's Derby Loss to City Rivals
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat 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 opportunities.
Yet, their Glasgow counterparts roared back after the break, exposing the home side's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers draw 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 commented, "The result 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 individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."
"This is not about me, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable to do."
"We are really close, there are many things that can be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."
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 carry on and it should not have happened. The people on the board who allowed this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."
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 ability to defend."
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 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."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure
The post-match mood among supporters was one of anger 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 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 self-explanatory.
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 fall guy. We lack 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 refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.
