England-born defender Emmanuel Fernandez has sent a powerful message to Nigeria's national team management with a standout performance for Rangers that included his first Scottish Premiership goal. The 24-year-old centre-back delivered his most convincing display since joining the Glasgow club, scoring in Rangers' 2-1 victory over Livingston at Ibrox Stadium.
Landmark Goal Boosts International Credentials
Fernandez announced his arrival in Scottish football in spectacular fashion, powering home a thumping ninth-minute header from captain James Tavernier's perfectly placed cross. The ball crashed off the underside of the crossbar before settling in the net, sending the Ibrox crowd into celebrations and setting the tone for Rangers' dominance throughout the match.
The defender's contribution proved crucial as Rangers secured their fourth consecutive league victory despite Livingston's equalizer through Tete Yengi. The winning goal eventually came from Mohamed Diomande's late strike, but it was Fernandez's all-around performance that captured attention both in Scotland and Nigeria.
Nigerian Eligibility and Growing Calls for Inclusion
Born in England to Nigerian parents, Fernandez remains eligible for both national teams but has made no secret of his desire to represent the Super Eagles. Despite his rapid development and impressive start at Rangers, the Nigeria Football Federation has yet to make an official approach for the promising defender.
This silence from Nigerian football authorities is becoming increasingly noticeable as Fernandez's performances grow more impressive. With two goals in just four appearances across all competitions since his summer move from Peterborough United, the defender is quickly establishing himself as more than just a promising signing—he's becoming a genuine asset.
Perfect Timing for Super Eagles Transition
Nigeria's defensive line is currently undergoing significant transition, with several senior players nearing the end of their international careers. The need for fresh leadership at the back has become urgent, especially after the Super Eagles' failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Fernandez's combination of aerial strength and composure under pressure makes him a compelling option for head coach Eric Chelle. His recent form, particularly his impact in important matches, has sparked conversations among Nigerian fans who are urging the NFF to track him closely ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The tournament, which kicks off on December 21, 2025, represents the perfect stage for new players to establish themselves in the national team setup. With William Troost-Ekong hinting at retirement and other defensive roles lacking depth, Fernandez represents exactly the kind of fresh talent Nigeria desperately needs to rebuild a squad capable of challenging for the country's fourth continental title.
Should the 24-year-old earn a call-up, he would join the growing list of foreign-born players who have chosen Nigeria over their countries of birth, including Ademola Lookman, Semi Ajayi, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Maduka Okoye, and Troost-Ekong himself.
As the Super Eagles shift their full attention to AFCON 2025 following World Cup qualification disappointment, the pressure mounts on Eric Chelle and the NFF to identify and integrate the best available talent. With Fernandez's stock rising rapidly in Scotland, the time for decisive action may be now.
