Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has revealed manager Derek McInnes is targeting a domestic treble to overcome their early European exit. The Ibrox side dropped into the Conference League playoffs following a qualifying defeat to Jagiellonia Bialystok. In response, McInnes has refocused his squad on domestic success ahead of a Premier Sports Cup quarter-final. “Obviously we had a bad start not being in Europe. It was difficult. So the manager speaking to us showed us that there’s still three trophies that are available to win, and we have a domestic charge that we can still push for and be confident where we could possibly—we have the possibility of doing something great.”
Forging A New Defensive Partnership
The 25-year-old centre-back has emerged as a consistent starter alongside Olwethu Makhanya, holding off competition from the returning Ben Godfrey. This growing defensive partnership helped secure a second shut-out in three league outings during the recent win over Motherwell. Following early personal criticism, Fernandez discussed his tactical maturity under McInnes. “Maybe it’s just concentration in moments. Like, if we do have a chat, it’s concentration in moments, the small things.”
Injury Concerns Before St Mirren
The Motherwell victory saw captain Lawrence Shankland suffer a hamstring injury that required a scan on Monday. While the club’s summer transfer market ambition added attacking depth, the backline also faced a late scare when Fernandez was withdrawn. The defender confirmed his substitution was a precaution for a minor niggle. He expects to be available for Wednesday’s league clash with St Mirren at Ibrox.
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