Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has agreed to commit his international future to Nigeria following talks with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, Footynaija.com reports.
This offers a massive boost for the three-time African champions in terms of their defensive options ahead of the upcoming international window, especially the injury prone nature of Semi Ajayi.
Fernandez, who joined Rangers from Peterborough United, has impressed in recent months and has been a key part of Danny Rohl’s side as they continue their push for the Scottish Premiership title.
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His consistent performances had already drawn attention from Nigeria, with approaches made earlier this month to persuade him to represent the country at international level.
Fernandez, who was eligible to play for both England and Nigeria through family ties, has now opted for the Super Eagles according to recent reports from Daily Record.
Reports from Nigeria indicate that he has given assurances of his desire to be considered for selection in the forthcoming international friendlies against Iraq and Jordan later this month.
Fernandez has formally informed the Nigeria Football Federation of his decision and has begun the process of applying for a Nigerian passport, a mandatory requirement before he can be officially registered and selected for competitive matches.
This latest recruitment aligns with Nigeria’s wider strategy of integrating foreign-born players into the national setup, adding to a growing list of dual-nationality talents already in the Super Eagles squad.
He’ll be joining the likes of Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, Maduka Okoye, Semi Ajayi, Joe Aribo and Cyriel Dessers as players with dual-nationality in the Super Eagles setup.
Fernandez’s potential inclusion will strengthen Nigeria’s defensive depth and provide Eric Chelle with another reliable option ahead of the March international window, as the Super Eagles continue preparations for upcoming competitive commitments.
