Rangers: Nigerian media react to Emmanuel Fernandez showing vs Poland
Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez started for Nigeria as they drew to Poland on Wednesday.
The 24-year-old was a revelation for the Gers over the course of the season after initial concerns after his move from Peterborough United.
His performances certainly quietened any negativity as he became one of the first names on the team sheet at Ibrox.
That has allowed him to become a regular at international level having made his debut earlier this year.
Fernandez featured from the start against Poland and picked up positive reviews from national media.
Emmanuel Fernandez impresses away from Rangers
There’s no surprise from Govan that the centre-back has become a useful asset for his country this campaign.
His defensive output has been excellent for the Gers and that has clearly caught the eye of Nigeria boss Eric Chelle.
He handed the Ibrox star the chance to showcase his best in an end-of-season friendly as the Super Eagles faced Poland.
The two sides played out a 2-2 draw at Stadion Narodowy as the centre-back featured in the first half before being removed at half-time as part of seven changes.
The defender still managed to impress as All Nigeria Soccer described his performance as “solid before being withdrawn”.
That was only echoed by Soccernet, who also praised him suggesting that he “played well” while also noting that he “managed to keep Lewandowski relatively quiet”.
Fernandez has been great for Rangers, and it is positive to see that on the international stage.
Peterborough United staff still keeping tabs on Fernandez after Rangers move
As good as the 2001-born man has been this season, there were certainly concerns when he moved from the Posh over the summer.
Coming out of League One, the expectations weren’t particularly high.
He has managed to turn things around, but it seems as if Peterborough United are still watching his progress carefully.
Their press officer Phil Adlam took to X on Wednesday as he discussed the Poland draw.
He said: “Emmanuel Fernandez currently up against Robert Lewandowski as Nigeria take on Poland.”
The comments consist of fans revealing how gutting it is to see his progress after moving away in the summer.
Rangers look to have a top player on their hands who is starting to impress on the international stage, so must do what they can to help him grow further moving into the new season.