Nancy Remains Defiant Following Celtic's Home Defeat to Rangers

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

The Frenchman hailed an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

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

This outcome sees Rangers draw level on points with second-placed Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the later result.

Speaking post-match, Nancy stated, "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 set-pieces. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the game plan, this is about key instances."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the significance of this game. I can appreciate the disappointment, but I also saw what we're capable 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 turn things around."

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

Pundits Deliver Blunt Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect 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 complete disarray."

Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner pinpointed the issue: "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 added: "As much as Rangers have done the right things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."

"Celtic have just collapsed. Something has to give, there is no doubt."

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton concluded: "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 Mounting Calls for His Departure

The full-time sentiment among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for change.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked great, after the break we looked like amateurs. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. 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 obvious.

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 wanting 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.