Nancy Stands Resolute Following His Team's Derby Loss to Rangers

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

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

Yet, their Glasgow counterparts 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 their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts subject to the later result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "It 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 individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."

"This is not about me, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, 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, "We are together with the board."

Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The disconnect 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 allowed this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "The problems are not 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 right 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 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 Growing Calls for Change

The post-match mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and demand for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like amateurs. 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 self-explanatory.

James: The board are wholly 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.

Karen Boyd MD
Karen Boyd MD

A passionate sports analyst with over a decade of experience in betting strategies and market trends.