Super Eagles news: Emmanuel Fernandez reaches new level at Rangers

Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining Scottish giants Rangers, with his impressive performances also helping him attract attention from several clubs across Europe, Soccernet.ng reports.

Fernandez joined the Light Blues from Peterborough United last summer and enjoyed a stunning debut season at Ibrox. The Super Eagles defender played a crucial role in Rangers’ title challenge, although their push for the league title eventually faded towards the end of the campaign.

His performances were recognised at the end of the season as he was named Rangers’ Player of the Season. He was also included in the PFA Scotland Team of the Season after an impressive campaign.

That outstanding debut season also earned Fernandez his first call-up to the Super Eagles. The defender made his Nigeria debut during a friendly against Iran in March and later scored his first goal in the 2-2 draw against Jordan during the same international period.

Emmanuel Fernandez: Super Eagles star ranked SPFL’s most valuable player

Although Fernandez has not been able to reach the same level of performance this season and has faced criticism for some of his displays, he remains an important player for Rangers.

His current market value is another indication of his growing status at the club. According to the latest Transfermarkt figures, Fernandez is valued at €16 million, making him the most valuable player in the entire Scottish Premiership.

It represents another remarkable milestone for the Super Eagles defender, despite his market value dropping by €2 million from last season.

Fernandez’s impressive performances last season helped attract transfer interest from several major European clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea.

Despite the drop in his valuation, he remains one of the most valuable Nigerian defenders in Europe. Fernandez is currently ranked as the fourth-most valuable Nigerian defender, behind Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina and Chibuike Nwaiwu, who have all been valued higher.

His presence also makes Rangers the most valuable club in the Scottish Premiership based on the combined market value of their squad, putting them ahead of Celtic and the other clubs in the division.

Fernandez was left on the bench for Nigeria’s recent AFCON qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

The Super Eagles defeated Madagascar 2-1 before suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their second Group L fixture.

Fernandez will now hope to return to the starting lineup when Nigeria face Russia in an international friendly on Tuesday.