Rangers manager Derek McInnes has defended centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez following criticism after the team's 2-2 draw with Hearts in the Scottish Premiership. The 25-year-old Nigeria international has started every match for Rangers this season, helping the side keep the most clean sheets in the league.
McInnes backs Fernandez
"I only get asked about Fernandez when he has a poor game. Nobody asked me about Fernandez on Saturday, he was outstanding on Saturday [against St Johnstone]," McInnes said ahead of Saturday's League Cup semi-final against Aberdeen at Hampden Park. "Wednesday night wasn't on Manny Fernandez, Wednesday night was a collective. I never get asked about Manny when he does really well and he's been a big part of our better performances this season."
League Cup semi-final preview
Rangers, who have won three trophies since 2012 but finished the last two seasons without silverware, face Aberdeen in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final. McInnes, who took charge in June, previously led Rangers to a 3-0 quarter-final victory over Celtic. "To get the first trophy would be so important, reinforcing confidence, reinforcing belief," he said. Aberdeen have lost three of their past four league matches, including a 1-0 home defeat to Falkirk, but McInnes warned against complacency. "They've got a good, experienced manager in Robbo and they've got some good players, experienced players, in Aberdeen and they'll be relishing the opportunity as well. People might view us as favourites for it and I understand that but we've still got a game to win and Aberdeen are capable of a big performance."
McInnes also expressed sympathy for Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson, acknowledging the pressure of management. "I sympathise with all the managers, really, who feel that pressure. I've managed the club for eight years up there and it's not always an easy club to manage but they've got a good guy there and a guy who will get it right if given time, I have no doubts about it."
