TIME IS NOT ON SIDE OF NANCY

NOWHERE TO HIDE Luke McCowan - in action in the loss to Rangers (far left) - reckons new boss Wilfried Nancy will get a limited number of games to sort Celtic out, with interim chairman Brian Wilson and chief executive Michael Nicholson (below) sure to be concerned by six defeats from just eight games since the Frenchman took charge

- BY MICHAEL GANNON

WILFRIED NANCY begged for more time going into Saturday's Old Firm clash.

But Luke McCowan is well aware time is a commodity in short supply at Celtic, particularly after losing 3-1 to Rangers.

And it's quickly running out for the Frenchman after a nightmare start to life at Parkhead - with only two wins from eight games.

This is the dilemma the club is now wrestling with. There was always going to be a period of pain appointing a manager determined to implement his strategy from the first kick of the ball in training.

But how much agony is acceptable when there are competitions to be won?

The Premier Sports Cup is already down the drain after last month's loss to St Mirren.

The Premiership is now in the balance with Rangers level on points with the Bhoys and leaders Hearts six points ahead and the bookies' favourites for the title.

The Europa League is on the horizon - with a visit to Bologna in 17 days' time - and the Celts, in 24th spot from 36 teams, need at least a win at a time when they can barely buy them.

Even Junior side Auchinleck Talbot will be rubbing their hands ahead of the Scottish Cup fourthround tie at Rugby Park in 13 days.

Nancy has flames licking at his feet after the shocking second-half collapse to Rangers made it six defeats from his first eight games.

It's a run of results that would end most manager's reign but he's still in position as they have come right at the start of his regime.