Rangers Boss McInnes Demands More From Super Eagles Defender Fernandez

Posted : 20 August 2026

Rangers manager Derek McInnes has challenged Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez to work harder and rediscover the form that made him one of the club’s standout players last season. The Nigerian centre-back has faced criticism after a difficult opening to the 2026/27 campaign.

Fernandez enjoyed an impressive first season at Ibrox. He was voted Rangers’ Men’s Player of the Year by supporters and was also selected in the PFA Scotland Premiership Team of the Year after a strong campaign in defence.

His performances also earned him his first Nigeria appearance. The 24-year-old made 28 appearances in all competitions last season, establishing himself as an important part of the Rangers defence.

The defender has struggled to reproduce that level early this season. He came under scrutiny during Rangers’ 2-1 defeat to Jagiellonia Bialystok in the Europa League qualifiers and was again criticised during the 5-1 Scottish League Cup win over St Mirren.

McInnes has defended his players but wants them to take greater responsibility for their performances. The Rangers boss said the squad must work towards its best form while improving concentration and defensive organisation.

“Every player is at a different moment but we need to make sure we are as stingy as we can be at the back,” McInnes said. He also stressed that players must remain focused and work harder when their performances are not coming naturally.

The Rangers manager added that talent alone is not enough. He believes Fernandez and his teammates must take responsibility for reaching their potential as the club attempts to recover from a difficult start.

Rangers began the new campaign under pressure after failing to win their opening four competitive matches. They were eliminated from the Europa League by Jagiellonia after a 3-2 aggregate defeat, forcing them into the Conference League play-off round.

The 5-1 victory over St Mirren finally gave McInnes his first win as Rangers manager. However, defensive concerns remain ahead of the crucial European tie against Czech side Jablonec.

Rangers host Jablonec at Ibrox on Thursday in the first leg of their Conference League play-off. Progression would keep their European campaign alive, while failure would leave the club facing the possibility of missing out on European league-stage football.

Fernandez will be expected to play a key role as Rangers seek greater defensive stability. McInnes will hope the Nigerian responds to his challenge and returns to the commanding form that earned him major recognition last season.

Rangers Boss McInnes Demands More From Super Eagles Defender Fernandez

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