Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy has insisted he is still "in unison with the board" and maintains belief that "we can turn things around" despite a concerning 3-1 loss to Rangers, which represents a sixth loss in their last eight outings.
The French manager hailed an "outstanding" 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 fought back after the break, exposing the home side's defensive fragility with a double brace from Youssef Chermiti and a third strike from Mikey Moore.
This result sees Rangers move level on points with their rivals Celtic, who could end up six points adrift leaders Hearts depending on the later 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 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 tactics, this is about key instances."
"This is not about me, this is about disappointing the fans because I understand the meaning 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 turn around. If it was not the case, I would not speak like this. I truly believe we can reverse our fortunes."
He concluded by reiterating, "The manager and board are together with the board."
Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart offered a brutal analysis: "Unworkable 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 allowed this should be removed as well. Celtic are in an absolute state."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner identified the issue: "The problems aren't 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 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."
The post-match sentiment among the fanbase was one of anger and demand for action.
Pete: First 45 minutes looked promising, after the break we looked like a pub team. Nancy has a single way of playing and can't adapt. 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 poor 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 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 improvement. He has a formation that he won't change. We've been beaten by a poor Rangers team. Nancy must go.
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