Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers

Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a damaging 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.

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 a number of clear chances.

Yet, their city rivals roared back after the break, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This result sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points behind leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.

Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more 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 players or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."

"We are really close, there are many things that can be improved. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I really believe we can turn things around."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "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 occurred. 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 shape at the back and the ability to defend."

Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds added: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just woefully poor."

"Celtic have just capitulated. 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: Understanding for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single 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 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 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.

Katherine Wise
Katherine Wise

Elara is a seasoned gaming analyst with a passion for demystifying online betting strategies and casino trends for enthusiasts worldwide.