Wilfried Nancy Remains Defiant After His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers

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

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other clear chances.

However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals 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 behind table-toppers Hearts depending on the later 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 conceded three goals from set-pieces. It's tough to accept, but it's reality. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about letting down the fans because I know the significance of this game. I can appreciate the frustration, but I also saw what we're able to do."

"We are really close, there are many things that can turn around. If it was not the case, I would not talk like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."

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

Analysts Give Stark Verdict on Celtic's Predicament

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal 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 happened. The people on the board who facilitated this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an complete disarray."

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 added: "As much as Rangers have done the right 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 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: Sympathy for Nancy But Growing Calls for His Departure

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

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like amateurs. 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 wanting 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 poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.