Wilfried Nancy Stands Defiant Following His Team's Home Defeat to Rangers
Parkhead manager Wilfried Nancy has declared he is still "in unison with the board" and expresses belief that "the team can turn things around" in the face of a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in their last eight outings.
The French manager praised an "exceptional" first-half performance from his side, a period in which they went ahead through Yang Hyun-Jun and passed up several other opportunities.
However, their Glasgow counterparts fought back after the break, capitalising on the home side's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This outcome sees Rangers draw level on points with their rivals 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 deserved more 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 reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about key instances."
"This is not about myself, this is about letting down 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."
"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 Assessment on Celtic's Situation
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh analysis: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a defeated man. The disconnect between the manager and the team is so obvious."
"It is not something that can carry on and it should not have happened. The people on the board who facilitated this should be shown the door 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 remarked: "As much as Rangers have done the correct things in this second half, Celtic have been just brutally bad."
"Celtic have just collapsed. 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 doesn't do that."
Supporters' Views: Understanding for Nancy But Mounting Calls for His Departure
The full-time sentiment among supporters was one of anger and calls for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, post half-time we looked like a pub team. Nancy has one 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 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 got the job in the first place, but he'll be used as the fall guy. 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 mediocre Rangers team. Nancy must go.
