Fernandez says sorry to Rangers supporters for championship disappointment

Nigeria defender Emmanuel Fernandez has issued an apology to Rangers supporters following a 3-1 defeat to Celtic at Celtic Park on Sunday, a loss that has effectively dashed the club's Scottish Premiership title hopes with just two matches remaining, while also acknowledging his own role in the campaign's shortcomings.

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Fernandez expressed his regret to the fans, stating that the team should have performed better in their last three games, and that he and his teammates feel sorry for the fans, as he told the Daily Record.

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The 24-year-old, who made the move to Rangers from Peterborough United last summer, took a candid approach to evaluating the season, declining to criticize his teammates and instead acknowledging that the squad lacked the necessary fight at critical moments.

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Fernandez conceded that he could not identify a specific issue, but felt that the team needed to demonstrate more fight, and took personal responsibility for certain defensive lapses, stating that he can take criticism for these moments.

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He refused to comment on his teammates, choosing instead to focus on his own performance, saying that he will examine his own actions rather than pointing fingers at others.

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Fernandez also highlighted the need for the team to improve its consistency under pressure, citing the squad's inexperience as a factor, but not an excuse, for their struggles.

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He noted that the team knew the season would be a challenge, and that there would be moments of struggle, but emphasized the importance of perseverance and collective defense in overcoming these difficulties.

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Looking ahead to the remaining fixtures against Hibernian and Falkirk, Fernandez urged the squad to finish the season on a strong note, and expressed optimism about the team's prospects for next season.

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Fernandez emphasized the need for the team to win their remaining two games for the fans, and believes that the young players on the squad will be able to demonstrate their worth and fight in the coming season.

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On a personal level, Fernandez's debut season at Ibrox has been a highlight of Rangers' campaign, with the defender scoring six goals in 31 appearances across all competitions and earning his first call-up to the Super Eagles.

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Fernandez made his international debut in a 2-1 win over Iran, and scored his first goal for Nigeria on his full debut against Jordan just days later.