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

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

The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

Yet, their city rivals roared back after the break, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts depending on 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 throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I know 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 be improved. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I truly believe we can turn things around."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

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 stark."

"It is not something that can continue and it should not have occurred. 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 identified the problem: "The problems are not high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the shape at the back and the defensive qualities."

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 brutally bad."

"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."

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

The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of anger and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. Get him out now!

Iain: It's very clear for all to see that Celtic cannot play to Nancy's style. 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 fall guy. 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.