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

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

The Frenchman praised an "outstanding" first-half display 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 in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This result means Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could find themselves six points adrift table-toppers Hearts subject to the later result.

Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "The result was disappointing because we deserved more 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 reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about me, 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."

"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 truly believe we can turn things around."

He concluded by stressing, "The manager and board are together with the board."

Analysts Give Stark Assessment on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Untenable 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 allowed 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 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 woefully poor."

"Celtic have just capitulated. Something has to change, 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 don't do that."

Supporters' Views: Sympathy for Nancy But Mounting Calls for Change

The post-match mood among supporters was one of frustration and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 self-explanatory.

James: The board are completely 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 fall guy. We lack 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.