Wilfried Nancy Remains Resolute Following Celtic's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in their last eight outings.

The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

Yet, their city rivals fought back after the break, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This result means Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the evening result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we needed more goals."

"In the second half, we let in three goals from throw-ins. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning 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 talk like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Untenable 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 identified the problem: "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 remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the correct 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 doesn't do that."

Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change

The full-time mood among the fanbase 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 react. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very painfully obvious 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.

Patrick Barrett
Patrick Barrett

Elara is a seasoned gaming journalist with a passion for slot mechanics and player advocacy in the UK market.