Emmanuel Fernandez 'ecstatic' for career first as defender opens up on Rangers pressure
Emmanuel Fernandez hasn't always had the easiest time at Rangers.
The centre-back joined the Bears from Peterborough United last summer in a deal worth £3million.
The Nigeria international initially struggled to cope with the Ibrox pressure under Russell Martin, but came good once the latter departed.
Fernandez started this season off in a poor manner under Derek McInnes, receiving criticism as the Gers started the campaign off underwhelmingly.
He has since formed a formidable partnership at the back with summer recruit Olwethu Makhanya, and has helped the Light Blues keep four consecutive clean sheets, including two against Celtic.
Fernandez has been called up to Nigeria's squad for their upcoming African Cup of Nations qualification matches, and has spoken out about the pressures at Rangers.
Emmanuel Fernandez reveals perseverance key to beat Rangers 'pressure'
Fernandez was given the call-up by Nigeria boss Eric Chelle and is reportedly in line to make his competitive debut against Madagascar on Friday, as per the Daily Record.
His nation is in Group L of the competition, and will also face Guinea-Bissau before a friendly match against Russia on 6 October.
The 24-year-old will then return to Auchenhowie, where he will prepare for Rangers' return to club football.
Speaking to Football Fans Tribe ahead of making his competitive debut for his country, Fernandez spoke about his past struggles at Rangers, as well as his delight at being called up.
He said: "I feel like there are going to be moments in the season where you feel maybe under pressure, but obviously you need to get through it.
"You need to show how good you are, so you can get through it; that’s where you build your mentality as a player.
"I was excited [for the call-up]. It is something I have been waiting for my whole career. It will be an ecstatic feeling because I have never played in Nigeria. It is something I have always wanted to do."
Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, and as Fernandez mentioned, it will be the first time playing in his own country.
He has made three non-competitive appearances for the Super Eagles before, and even has one goal for his nation.
Who is Fernandez's competition for Nigeria?
Fernandez is a sure starter week in, week out under McInnes, and that will most likely remain the case for the rest of his time with the Bears.
However, he has an extra tinge of competition for Nigeria, with several top defenders also in their ranks.
Fulham's Calvin Bassey is the obvious name, someone that the Ibrox faithful know all about.
Hull City's Semi Ajayi has had a brilliant start to the Premier League season for the Tigers, and also has a case to be starting.
Other competitors Fernandez will be up against for a future starting spot are Annecy FC'S Julien Kouadio and Chibuike Nwaiwu of Trabzonspor.