Glasgow Rangers centreback looks forward to making his Eagles debut against Jordan

GLASGOW Rangers centreback Emmanuel Fernandez is looking forward to becoming the next Nigerian defensive sensation as he awaits an invitation to the Super Eagles camp ahead of the forthcoming friendly tournament taking place in Jordan later this month.

Nigeria has been invited to participate in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman, Jordan, during the next Fifa's international window between March 27 and 31. This tournament, which will involve the national teams of Jordan, Iran and Costa Rica, will take place at the same time as the World Cup play-offs.

Fernandez, 24,  joined Rangers from Peterborough United during the summer transfer window in a deal reportedly worth around £3m. Peterborough's director of football Barry Fry believes Rangers could command a transfer fee of at least £30m for the defender following his impressive start to life at Ibrox.

Mr Fry said: “When we sold Manny to Rangers, the fans up there had a right go at me, saying he was the worst player they had signed. I just knew Fernandez had to be given a chance.

“I made it clear Rangers would eventually sell him for £30m or even £40m. I said he’d score goals as well and just come through strong for them.”

Now, the young centre-back has quickly established himself as a key figure for the club, winning over supporters with his solid defensive displays, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball. Fernandez has also contributed offensively, scoring five goals in 19 league appearances to underline his growing influence in the team.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, has apparently already assured Fernandez that whatever happens, he is on his radar for the next Super Eagles squad. Any moment, from now, the squad is due to be announced, with Fernandez expected to compete with the likes of Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick Semi Ajayi and Igor Ogbu for as starting shirt at the heart of the defence.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Fernandez has pledged his international future to Nigeria. Hopefully, the tournament, that will see Nigeria take on Jordan in the Eagles' opening game, will still hold despite lingering security fears as a result of the ongoing war in the Middle East involving Iran and Israel.