Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant Following Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison 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 Frenchman hailed an "outstanding" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

However, their city rivals fought back in the second period, exposing the home side's fragile defence with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third 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, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we required more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from set-pieces. 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 understand 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 speak like this. I truly believe we can turn things around."

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

Analysts Give Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Untenable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap between the manager and the team is so obvious."

"It is not something that can continue and it should not have happened. 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 problem: "The problems aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the ability to defend."

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

"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to change, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "We've seen this story 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 Change

The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has one way of playing and can't react. 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 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 scapegoat. We lack 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.