Nigerian defender, Emmanuel Fernandez, enjoyed a dream start to life at Ibrox, finding the net on his first competitive outing for Rangers.
Fernandez scored the second goal in Rangers’ 4-2 win over Alloa Athletic in the Premier Sports Cup Round of 16 on Saturday.
The 23-year-old joined the Light Blues from League One side Peterborough United, signing a four-year deal in July 2025.
His arrival comes in the wake of veteran Nigerian defender Leon Balogun’s departure, providing manager Martin with a promising new option in central defence.
Fernandez made 42 appearances for Peterborough last season, bringing both experience and potential to the squad.
Dream Debut For Fernandez
The young centre-back was delighted to mark his first start with a goal and praised Martin for the opportunity.
“I am delighted to make my debut for the club and get my first goal as well,” Fernandez told Rangers TV.
“It meant a lot to me to get the goal, I haven’t played a lot recently, so to get my first game and get a goal, I can’t complain too much. I am so thankful to the gaffer for giving me the opportunity.
“I think I am good at set-plays, attacking and defending is one of my strengths and when opportunities like that come along I can’t wait to get my head on it.
“It is always tough when you aren’t playing and sometimes you have thoughts in your head, but you have to wait your turn.
“When you join a new team things like this happen and you have to work hard and your opportunity will come.
“Training has been good, everyone is very welcoming to me and the gaffer is good with me in training.
“I am training hard, focusing on the small details and everything will be okay.”
Eyes On Europe
Rangers now turn their attention to the Champions League playoff round against Club Brugge.
Fernandez is aware of areas for improvement but believes the squad is making progress.
“It was good to get through to the next round,” he said.
“It is job done, there are always improvements to be made but we are growing as a team and we are only going to get better.
“We are getting used to the style of play a bit more, we need to tighten up defensively in some circumstances.
“Brugge are a good team but hopefully we can get through to the Champions League.”
