Debut outings for Nigerian defenders overshadowed by Rangers' worst league start in decades

A 1-1 stalemate with St Mirren on Sunday condemned Rangers to their worst Scottish Premiership start in over three decades. 

The Glasgow side has now gone three matches without a win, collecting just three points from draws with Motherwell, Dundee and St Mirren. 

The result places further pressure on manager Russell Martin, who has struggled for consistency since taking charge.

Despite the disappointment at the SMISA Stadium, the game was notable for the Premiership debuts of Nigerian duo Emmanuel Fernandez and Jayden Meghoma. 

Fernandez, signed permanently from Peterborough United in July, started at centre-back alongside John Souttar. 

The 23-year-old defender displayed composure in his first league appearance, continuing his steady progress since joining the club. 

He had already featured in the League Cup earlier this month, where he found the net in the win over Alloa Athletic.

Meghoma, 19, joined Rangers on loan from Brentford and was given a starting role at left-back. 

The teenager, who is eligible for Nigeria through his heritage, produced an encouraging display before being withdrawn in the second half. 

He contributed defensively with key tackles and maintained strong passing accuracy, adding to the impression he created during his Champions League qualifier debut against Club Brugge.

Rangers dominated much of the possession but trailed to a first-half strike from Jonah Ayunga before teenager Findlay Curtis equalised late in the second half. 

With the Old Firm derby against Celtic approaching on August 31, Rangers must find solutions quickly to avoid further setbacks. 

The Nigerian duo’s introduction to the Premiership, however, offers hope of fresh energy and stability in a season that has begun under heavy scrutiny.

Wale Adejumo

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