Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant Following Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in their last eight outings.

The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned a number of opportunities.

Yet, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This result sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult 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 understand the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're able 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 talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark 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 obvious."

"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 identified the issue: "The problems aren't 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 capitulated. Something has to give, 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 don't do that."

Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The full-time mood among supporters was one of anger and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single 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 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 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 progress. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.