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

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "together with the board" and expresses belief that "we can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in their last eight outings.

The Frenchman praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of clear chances.

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

This outcome sees Rangers move level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could find themselves six points behind leaders Hearts depending on the evening result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome 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 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 meaning of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable 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 talk like this. I really believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Pundits Deliver Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap 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 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 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 concluded: "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: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure

The post-match mood among the fanbase was one of anger and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. 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 style. 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 got the job 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.