Emmanuel Fernandez in action for Rangers and Andy Halliday speaking on BBC Sportscene
Emmanuel Fernandez and Andy HallidayImago/BBC Sportscene

Andy Halliday makes 'monster' Emmanuel Fernandez claim after what he saw in Rangers vs Celtic

Jacob Raw

Correspondent AUTHORITY Sports journalist with experience at the Northern Echo and Durham Cricket Club; Teesside University graduate. FOCUS Long-form opinion and deep-dive content across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Jacob utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, analytical reporting. He provides in-depth opinion and insight to ensure fans get beyond the headlines and into the detail.

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Andy Halliday was impressed with Emmanuel Fernandez's performance in Rangers' win over Celtic on Sunday.

The Bears picked up their second Old Firm win in a matter of seven days, only this time coming at Celtic Park.

Ryan Naderi's goal secured a 1-0 result for the Gers, who now sit just two points off the Hoops at the top of the Scottish Premiership heading into the international break.

Derek McInnes has earned his plaudits after the two victories, with Martin O'Neill now considering his position as Celtic boss.

The Light Blues' defence was on top form in the Old Firm showdown, with the likes of Olwethu Makhanya and Dujon Sterling receiving high praise.

However, Fernandez had to recover after a shaky start, as Halliday makes a strong claim about the Rangers centre-back.

Andy Halliday says Emmanuel Fernandez has 'got everything' after Old Firm win

Rangers have been backed to make a fortune on Fernandez in the future, even though Peterborough United are said to be due a chunk of whatever profit is made.

The Nigerian international has gone from strength to strength since arriving in Govan, but some people suggest he still has a mistake or two in him.

The centre-half was booked four minutes into the game, and looked as though he may have got himself a sending-off early into the contest.

While speaking to Aiden McGeady and others on Open Goal, Halliday shared his thoughts on Fernandez, claiming what he would have done if he were McInnes.

Halliday said: "Fernandez is a monster, honestly. I know every game he's got this 10-minute period, but people don't realise how good he is for 80 minutes as well.

"He's got everything; [but] after that second one, I'm taking him straight off, because he'll commit another foul."

McGeady replied: "He reminds me of Boba Balde, but maybe a bit more technical about him; an absolute monster, but he just bullies everyone that comes close to him."

The Gers won 54 per cent of their aerial duels against Celtic, and Fernandez was a big reason why.

He did well to calm himself down after looking rattled early on, proving the hype behind his name.

Emmanuel Fernandez in action for Rangers and Andy Halliday speaking on BBC Sportscene
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How much could Rangers realistically get for Fernandez?

Rangers had interest in Fernandez in the summer transfer window, but managed to keep hold of one of their biggest assets.

The 24-year-old still has plenty of time to improve, which only helps the Bears when it comes to transfer discussions.

The same can be said for Youssef Chermiti, who the 49ers value at around £34million.

With that said, Fernandez could be worth at least £30m, as Rangers have no urgent need to sell any of their players.

If anybody were to leave Ibrox in January for big money, it would most likely be Nicolas Raskin, not Fernandez.

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