Emmanuel Fernandez injury boost for Nigeria boss Eric Chelle ahead of squad announcement

Nigeria manager Eric Chelle has been handed a positive update before naming his squad for the November internationals, with Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez expected to return to training after an ankle injury.

The 24-year-old suffered the problem during Rangers’ 1-0 win over Aberdeen in Saturday’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden Park.

Fernandez’s injury had placed his availability for this weekend’s Scottish Premiership match against St Mirren in doubt. However, Rangers manager Derek McInnes says the centre-back should train on Thursday and be fit to play in Paisley.

“Fernandez, his ankle was a bit of a mess after the game on Saturday,” McInnes said on Wednesday before Rangers’ trip to face St Mirren.

“He twisted that but he’s due to train tomorrow and will be fine for the game on Saturday.”

The update is a timely boost for Chelle, who is preparing to select the Super Eagles squad for two important 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Tanzania.

Nigeria will host Tanzania in Uyo on November 13, before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the second fixture on November 17.