Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez has been called out over his decision-making despite helping Rangers secure a 1-0 victory over St Mirren at Ibrox, Footynaija.com reports.
Fernandez completed the full 90 minutes as Rangers kept a clean sheet, producing a generally improved display after coming under scrutiny for some of his performances since the start of the season.
However, the Nigerian defender still had several nervy moments during the encounter, with his decision-making particularly coming under the spotlight.
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Rangers TV commentator Cammy Bell was critical of Fernandez after one incident in which the center-back won possession near the halfway line before attempting a risky flick towards teammate Dujon Sterling.
The pass was intercepted by Nikolas Agrafiotis, allowing St Mirren to launch a dangerous counter-attack which Sterling eventually stopped by committing a foul and consequently entering the referee’s book.
“When you’re a centre-half, you need to make better decisions,” Bell said on Rangers TV.
“These are bad decisions. That flick there. Can’t be doing that. He’s an excellent player, but you just cannot do that.”
Fernandez was also fortunate to escape punishment earlier in the match after appearing to catch St Mirren attacker Ismael Kabia on the foot inside the Rangers box.
The referee and VAR allowed play to continue, although former referee Bobby Madden later argued that St Mirren should have been awarded a penalty.
The latest criticism will be frustrating for Fernandez, particularly after he recently admitted that he needed to improve following questions over his early-season performances.
Despite the criticism, the 90-minute outing and clean sheet offer some positives for the Super Eagles defender. But the pressure is unlikely to ease up, with Rangers due for a much tougher test against Scottish champions Celtic in the Old Firm derby this weekend.
