Wilfried Nancy Remains Defiant Following His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers
Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which marks a sixth defeat in eight games.
The French manager hailed an "exceptional" 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.
However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the home side's defensive fragility with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a final strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome means Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points behind table-toppers Hearts depending on the evening result.
Addressing the media, Nancy commented, "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 game plan, this is about key instances."
"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand 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 turn around. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He finished by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken 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 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 aren't high up the pitch for Celtic, the problems are the organisation at the back and the defensive qualities."
Former Rangers striker and coach Billy Dodds remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the right 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 summed up: "We've seen this story 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 full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for change.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 system. These players are not bad 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 scapegoat. We don't have 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 refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.
