Wilfried Nancy Stands Resolute After His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "the team can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 defeat to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in eight games.

The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up a number of 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 final strike from Mikey Moore.

This outcome means Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up 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 required more goals."

"In the second half, we let in three goals from set-pieces. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the players or the game plan, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I know the meaning 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 be improved. 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 Blunt Assessment on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal take: "Untenable 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 complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed 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 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 don't do that."

Fan Reaction: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for Change

The post-match sentiment among supporters was one of anger and demand for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single 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 bad players all of a sudden. The answer is obvious.

James: The board are completely 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 hoping to give him a chance, but there is no progress. He has a formation that he refuses to alter. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.