Super Eagles squad vs Tanzania: 2 reasons Fernandez was left out

Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has been left out of Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles squad for the upcoming doubleheader against Tanzania in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The 24-year-old had been in contention for another national team invitation after making his debut for Nigeria earlier this year and was also part of the team for the September qualifiers.

However, his absence from the latest squad has raised questions about the reasons behind his omission, especially after earning another opportunity during the September international window.

Afrik-Foot looks at two factors that could have influenced Chelle to leave Emmanuel Fernandez out of the latest Super Eagles squad.

2 reasons behind Emmanuel Fernandez absence from Super Eagles squad

1. Slow start to the season at Rangers

Fernandez’s difficult start to the season at Rangers may have worked against him in the competition for a place in Chelle’s squad.

The 24-year-old struggled during the early part of the campaign for the Light Blues, struggling to replicate the form he showed during last season.

However, he has shown signs of improvement in recent weeks, with the Super Eagles defender enjoying from his developing partnership with fellow defender Olwethu Makhanya. 

Despite that improvement, the competition for places in the Super Eagles defence remains strong. Most of Chelle’s defensive options have more international experience and are regulars for their respective clubs.

That puts Fernandez at a disadvantage, especially when the Nigerian coach has to select players who are not only performing well but also playing regularly and consistently at a high level.

His recent improvement at Rangers may eventually strengthen his chances of returning to the squad, but it appears that he has not yet done enough to secure a place ahead of the other available defenders.

2. Fitness concerns and ankle problem

Another possible reason behind Fernandez’s omission is the fitness concern he has been dealing with at Rangers.

The defender has struggled with an ankle problem in recent weeks, which appears to have affected his availability and ability to perform at his best.

Rangers head coach Derek McInnes addressed the Super Eagles star’s injury concern in a recent interview, providing an update on his current condition.

“I think he gets a rough ride at times and he’s a big lad, so when he’s not at his best it’s pretty visible. But he’s been struggling with his ankle; even in a warm-up, he was feeling it”, he revealed.

“We had a discussion in the dressing room before the game. He looked as if he might not be able to play, but we agreed that he would try it.

“Thankfully, as you say, his performance was really good and dominant, and I thought him and Makka have forged a good relationship.”

Chelle may have decided not to take a risk by inviting the 24-year-old, especially with two important AFCON qualifying fixtures against Tanzania coming up.

For Fernandez, the immediate priority will be to recover fully, regain his best form and continue building consistency at Rangers, which would improve his chances of earning a return to the Super Eagles for the next round of qualifiers.