Rangers Defender Fernandez Names Three Nigerian Football Role Models

Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has named former Super Eagles captains Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, Joseph Yobo and William Troost-Ekong as his three Nigerian football role models.

The 25-year-old made the revelation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Speaking to Football Fans Tribe about the Nigerian players who have inspired him, Fernandez said: “Troost-Ekong, Joseph Yobo, and, of course, Jay-Jay Okocha.”

Fernandez also singled out Okocha for praise, highlighting the former Super Eagles captain’s playing style and technical ability.

“I think the style, elegance, and things that he [Okocha] does with the ball—I think everyone growing up wants to play like that. Obviously, things change, and you end up not playing like that,” he said.

Okocha, Yobo and Troost-Ekong have all captained the Super Eagles at different stages of their international careers, with Okocha widely recognised for his creativity and flair, while Yobo and Troost-Ekong have been prominent figures in Nigeria’s defence.

Fernandez’s comments come as attention turns to Nigeria’s 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign and the squad’s preparations for the upcoming fixtures.