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Rangers boss Derek McInnes backs Emmanuel Fernandez after difficult season start
Rangers manager Derek McInnes says the club’s priority is to help Emmanuel Fernandez and the rest of the squad rediscover their best form after the Nigerian defender came under pressure during the opening fixtures of the new season.
Fernandez has faced scrutiny following Rangers’ early matches, with particular attention on his performance in the 2-1 defeat by Jagiellonia Białystok in the UEFA Europa League third qualifying round.
The defender put through his own net in the first half of that match before also being involved in the defensive error that enabled Kajetan Szmyt to give the Polish side the lead.
However, McInnes has rejected the idea of singling Fernandez out for criticism, arguing that Rangers’ attention must remain on improving the performances of the whole team.
“We’re trying to help every player really to get to their best form. Every player is at a different moment but we need to make sure we are as stingy as we can be at the back,” he said, as quoted by The Scottish Sun.
McInnes acknowledged that players can be at different stages of their development and form, particularly at this point in the campaign. He said Rangers must work collectively to build the understanding required to improve their defensive performance.
The manager also stressed the importance of establishing strong relationships between his players as the squad adjusts to the demands of the new season.
“And try to get those kind of relationships. I think for everybody it is to try to find their best form. And I think at this stage of the season it’s difficult to be at your best,” he added.
Fernandez’s difficult evening against Jagiellonia Białystok has placed his start to the campaign under the spotlight, but McInnes’ comments indicate that the defender remains part of a wider effort to raise Rangers’ level of performance.
The Rangers boss said concentration, application and a clear focus would all be essential if his players are to produce their best displays.
“Certainly you have to have that real focus and concentration and application at your way to try to get your best performances,” McInnes stated.
His message was that the club’s response should centre on support and improvement rather than blame. Rangers are seeking greater defensive security while their players continue to find their rhythm and build the relationships McInnes believes are necessary for the team to perform at its best.
