Fernandez picks Ekong, Yobo, Okocha as his heroes

Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has named William Troost-Ekong, Joseph Yobo, and Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha as his top football heroes, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Fernandez shared this just before Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. The Rangers centre-back is set to make his competitive debut for the Super Eagles.

He called his first Nigeria call-up a moment he has waited for throughout his career.
“I was excited. It is something I have been waiting for my whole career,” Fernandez told Football Fans Tribe.

“I have had a turbulent journey throughout my career but I am grateful and happy to be here.”

Fernandez joined Rangers in the summer of 2025. He earned a spot on the national team after several impressive performances for the Scottish club.

He talked about the challenges of playing for Rangers. He said the pressure has helped him grow the right mindset to handle tough times.
“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 said.

When asked about who inspired him while growing up, Fernandez pointed to Okocha’s skill and style as a big influence.

“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 wants to play like that. Obviously, things change and you end up not playing like that,” he said.

Fernandez is also excited to play in Nigeria for the first time. He described it as something he has always dreamed of doing.
“It will be an ecstatic feeling because I have never played in Nigeria. It is something I have always wanted to do.”

As they prepare to face Madagascar, Fernandez expects a tough match. He believes the Super Eagles need to match their opponents' energy and determination.
“Look, I am expecting Madagascar to be a very strong team, and I feel like they are going to have a lot of resilience and energy. That’s something we need to match and show our quality through matching their energy,” he said.