Nancy Stands Defiant Following Celtic's Derby Loss to City Rivals

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth defeat in eight games.

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

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

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "It was disappointing because we merited a better outcome 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 players or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're capable to do."

"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 reverse our fortunes."

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

Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap 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 shown the door as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "The problems are not 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 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 change, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton summed up: "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."

Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one way of playing and can't adapt. 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 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 wanting to give him a chance, but there is no progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.