Rangers face a key selection call at the heart of defence for the Hampden meeting with Aberdeen as questions mount over Manny Fernandez’s recent form.
The Nigeria international has been a regular under Derek McInnes, partnering the impressive Olwethu Makhanya, but error-prone displays, most notably in the midweek 2-2 draw at Hearts, have heightened calls for change.
With Ben Godfrey now fully fit and available, the debate centres on whether to persist with Fernandez or introduce the experienced England international.
Keeping Fernandez in the side has clear merits. There is a strong argument to let him play his way back into form given how impressive his ceiling is. McInnes has publicly backed the 25-year-old, pointing to strong performances and a lack of noise when he does things well.
The manager noted Fernandez’ full capability and how he has contributed significantly to Rangers’ better results and clean sheets this season.
Continuity with Makhanya has produced periods of solid defensive solidity, and dropping a player of proven potential after one or two off-nights risks undermining confidence.
At his best, Fernandez offers athleticism, aerial presence and ball-playing ability that can elevate the entire back line, despite the lapses that he needs to eradicate.
Conversely, there is a strong case for dropping him to the bench and starting Godfrey. Repeated errors in concentration and positioning from the former Peterborough man have contributed to dropped points.
Godfrey has trained well and is eager for minutes. Introducing him would inject fresh energy, experience and competition into the defence at a critical stage of the season. The irony is that he was expected to be a regular, only for Makhanya to exceed all expectations and show a very high level.
A short spell on the sidelines could also benefit Fernandez, giving him the chance to reset without the immediate pressure of first-team scrutiny.
Ultimately, McInnes must make the call, and the indication is that he will keep faith with Fernandez.
Ahead of Rangers vs Aberdeen, he stated:
“I only get asked about Fernandez when he has a poor game. Nobody asked me about Fernandez on Saturday.
“He was outstanding on Saturday. He looks like he could’ve played St Johnstone himself at the back.
“I understand when players drop because he’s got such a high ceiling and when he’s good, he’s very good. But that’s the same for a lot of players.
“Last night wasn’t on Manny Fernandez. Last night it was a collective. And I never get asked about Manny when he does really well and he’s been a big part of our better performances this season.”
There is also the question of whether Dujon Sterling can play three games a week and that could be a factor in the Rangers lineup against Aberdeen on Saturday evening.
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