Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez has opened up on his surprise inclusion in the Scottish Premiership Team of the Season after an impressive debut campaign with Rangers F.C..
Fernandez has grown into a key figure at Ibrox this season. He broke into the team later in the campaign but quickly made his presence felt. His consistent displays in defence helped Rangers maintain stability in crucial matches. Those performances earned him recognition among the league’s best players.
The centre-back earned the recognition after a series of strong displays in the Scottish Premiership, having only arrived last summer from Peterborough United F.C. in a £3.5 million move.
His inclusion highlights his rapid adaptation to top-flight football. It also reflects his importance in Rangers’ push for domestic success this season.
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Speaking after the announcement, Fernandez admitted the recognition came earlier than expected.
“It was a bit of a shock to be in the Team of the Year as I started playing a bit later in the season,”
He also credited his teammates and the club’s staff for their role in his development.
“To be named in it, I am so grateful to my teammates and the staff, as well as the other players in the league for voting for me.
“I didn’t expect it but to do it in my first season here, to get that recognition is a moment I won’t forget.”
Fernandez also pointed to pre-season preparations as a turning point. He highlighted the squad’s training camp in Spain as a major factor behind their chemistry.
“Spain [the pre-season training] was one of the best things we have done.
“I spoke to players I maybe didn’t speak to as much before the trip. It was good for team bonding and it was nice to play in the heat – you don’t get much of that here.
“We all enjoyed it,” Fernandez concluded.
Fernandez was named alongside top performers such as Lawrence Shankland and Benjamin Nygren in the Team of the Season.
Rangers now turn their focus to the title race. They remain in contention and could still overtake Heart of Midlothian F.C. before the campaign ends.
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