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Super Eagles hopeful Emmanuel Fernandez delighted with goalscoring Rangers debut
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Nigerian defender Emmanuel Fernandez marked his competitive debut for Rangers with a goal as the Scottish giants eased past Alloa Athletic in the Premier Sports Cup.
The towering centre-back, tipped as a Super Eagles prospect, rose highest to head home Rangers’ second of the night, handing Russell Martin’s side a 2-1 lead before they eventually secured victory.
Speaking after the match, Fernandez could not hide his delight at opening his account in his very first outing for the club.
“I am delighted to make my debut for the club and get my first goal as well. It meant a lot to me, I haven’t played a lot recently, so to get my first game and a goal, I can’t complain too much. I am so thankful to the gaffer for giving me the opportunity,” he told Rangers TV.
The 22-year-old also highlighted his aerial strength as a key asset.
“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,” he said.
Fernandez admitted it had been difficult waiting for his chance but stressed the importance of patience and hard work.
“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,” he noted.
The defender, who joined Rangers earlier this year, praised the squad and manager Russell Martin for easing his adaptation.
“Training has been good, everyone is very welcoming and the gaffer is good with me in training. I am training hard, focusing on the small details and everything will be okay,” he added.
