Nancy Stands Defiant Following His Team's Derby Loss 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" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.
The French manager hailed an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.
However, their city rivals fought back after the break, exposing the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind leaders Hearts depending on the later result.
Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result 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 set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about moments."
"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the meaning of this game. I can understand the frustration, but I also saw what we're able 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 turn things around."
He finished by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal take: "Untenable 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 continue and it should not have occurred. The people on the board who facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
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 defensive qualities."
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 brutally bad."
"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to change, 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 post-match mood among supporters was one of frustration and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 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 lack 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.
