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

Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "together with the board" and maintains 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 hailed an "exceptional" first-half display from his side, a period in which they took the lead through Yang Hyun-Jun and spurned several other opportunities.

Yet, their Glasgow counterparts roared back in the second period, capitalising on the Celtic's fragile defence with a two goals from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.

This result means 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 stated, "The result was disappointing because we merited a better outcome today, but again we required more goals."

"In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It's difficult to accept, but it's the situation. This is not about the individuals or the tactics, this is about moments."

"This is not about myself, this is about disappointing 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."

"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 Stark Verdict on Celtic's Situation

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a harsh take: "Unworkable position for Nancy. He looks like a broken man. The gap between the manager and the team is so obvious."

"It is not something that can continue 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 organisation at the back and the ability to defend."

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 movie 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 Growing Calls for His Departure

The full-time mood among the fanbase was one of frustration and calls for action.

Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, 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 system. These players are not poor 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 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 won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.