Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has revealed former Super Eagles captains William Troost-Ekong and Joseph Yobo, and Okocha, as his three role models ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Fernandez, who joined the Scottish club in the summer of 2025, earned his place in the national team following a string of impressive and solid performances for Rangers at the start of the campaign.
Speaking to Football Fans Tribe, Fernandez expressed his excitement about the opportunity to make his competitive debut for Nigeria, describing it as something he had been waiting for throughout his career.
"I was excited. It is something I have been waiting for my whole career," Fernandez said.
"I have had a turbulent journey throughout my career but I am grateful and happy to be here."
The defender acknowledged the pressure that comes with representing a club of Rangers’ stature but said such challenges provide an opportunity for players to demonstrate their quality and develop a stronger mentality.
"It is a lot of pressure playing for a team like Glasgow Rangers. It is enjoyable. I feel like there are going to be moments in the season where you feel maybe under pressure but you need to show how good you are, so you can get through it, that’s where you build your mentality as a player," he added.
Fernandez named William Troost-Ekong, Joseph Yobo, and Austin 'Jay-Jay' Okocha as his role models, noting that Okocha's style, elegance, and ability on the ball particularly inspired him while growing up.
"Troost-Ekong, Joseph Yobo, and of course Jay Jay Okocha. I think the style, elegance, and things that he does with the ball, I think everyone growing up want to play like that. Obviously, things change and you end up not playing like that," Fernandez revealed.
The centre-back also expressed excitement at the prospect of making his first appearance in Nigeria, describing it as something he has always wanted to experience.
"It will be an ecstatic feeling because I have never played in Nigeria. It is something I have always wanted to do," he added.
Looking ahead to the Super Eagles' clash with Madagascar, Fernandez expects a difficult encounter, warning that the opponents will bring resilience and energy.
"Look, I am expecting Madagascar to be very strong team and I feel like they are going to have a lot of resilient and energy, that’s something we are going to need to match and show our quality through matching their energy," he concluded.
The Rangers defender will be eager to make his competitive debut for Nigeria and will hope to help the Super Eagles secure a positive result against Madagascar as they begin their AFCON qualifying campaign.
Adeyemi Adewale
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