Wilfried Nancy Remains Resolute Following His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat 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 went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.

Yet, their city rivals roared 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 means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind leaders Hearts subject to the later result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It 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 players or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can understand the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable 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 speak like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated 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 facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

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

"Celtic have just collapsed. 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."

Fan Reaction: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change

The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and calls 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 react. 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.