Nancy Remains Defiant Following His Team's Derby Loss to City Rivals

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

The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, exposing the home side's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.

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

Addressing the media, Nancy stated, "It 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 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 understand the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable 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 reverse our fortunes."

He finished by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Analysts Give Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal take: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated 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 facilitated this should be shown the door as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the problem: "The problems aren't 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 woefully poor."

"Celtic have just collapsed. 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 don't do that."

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

The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like amateurs. 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 style. These players are not bad 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.