Super Eagles news: Ex-Rangers star identifies two qualities that make Emmanuel Fernandez stand out

Former Scotland and Rangers defender Kirk Broadfoot has revealed the qualities that make Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez stand out from others.

Fernandez has enjoyed a stunning rise in his career and has taken his game to another level since joining Rangers from Peterborough United in the summer of 2025.

The Super Eagles defender immediately established himself in the Rangers lineup and became an important player for the club last season.

He helped Rangers challenge for the Scottish title, although their hopes eventually faded as they finished third behind champions Celtic and Hearts.

Fernandez’s impressive campaign also saw him named Rangers’ Men’s Player of the Season, while he earned a place in the Scotland PFA Team of the Season. 

Broadfoot hails Rangers for keeping Fernandez

Fernandez was heavily linked with a move away from Rangers last summer, with the likes of Rennes and Borussia Dortmund among clubs that showed interest in the defender.

However, Broadfoot believes Rangers made the right decision by keeping the Super Eagles star at the club instead of allowing him to leave.

The former Scotland international believes retaining Fernandez was one of Rangers’ best pieces of business during the summer and could help strengthen the team.

“I think a big one was keeping big Fernandez, keeping him here. He looks like an unbelievable player”, the former Scotland star said, via Scotsman.

What makes Super Eagles star special?

Fernandez’s ability on the ball has been one of the standout aspects of his game since his move to Rangers.

Although he has attracted some criticism for his performances this season, he remains one of their best plauers and has continued to show the qualities that made him such an important player for Rangers last campaign.

Broadfoot believes the defender’s ability on the ball and his physical attributes are two of the qualities that make him stand out and is confident the Super Eagles defender can develop into a great player if he continues on his current trajectory.

“I just think he's an all-round athlete. He's good on the ball. He's very good in the air. He's confident. He can probably do what he wants in the game, to be honest. He is the type of player that people look for.”

Fernandez growing relationship with Makhanya

Fernandez, who ranks as the most valuable footballer in the Scottish league, has also been forming a growing partnership with South African defender Othwethu Makhanya, whose market value has also continued to rise.

The two defenders have developed a strong relationship and are beginning to look very effective together at the back.

“An athlete, big, good on the ball, good in the air. The two of them look well to be fair. I think Rangers will be strong and we play them next week with Kilmarnock. Hopefully they have an off day!”

Fernandez will be targeting another impressive performance for Rangers when tbey face Kilmarnock this weekend, as action resumes in the Scottish league after the international break.