Dual-national central defender Emmanuel Fernandez celebrated a landmark moment in his career on Saturday as he scored his first Scottish Premiership goal in Rangers’ 2-1 victory over Livingston at Ibrox, allnigeriasoccer.com reports. 

Eligible for both England and Nigeria, Fernandez dreams of playing for the three-time African champions but is yet to receive an approach from the Nigeria Football Federation.

The 24-year-old delivered a commanding performance on just his second league start since his summer arrival from Peterborough United.

Fernandez announced himself in style with a powerful ninth-minute header, rising highest to meet James Tavernier’s cross and thunder the ball in off the underside of the bar to hand Rangers early control.

Although Livingston equalised through Tete Yengi, Rangers restored their lead when Mohamed Diomande scored a late winner to secure the hosts’ fourth consecutive league victory. 

 His latest performance, however, will only strengthen calls for the NFF to monitor his progress closely, especially with Nigeria seeking to deepen its defensive options.

A goalscoring defender, Fernandez has now struck twice in four appearances across all competitions for the Light Blues, who sit fourth in the provisional Premiership table with 21 points from 12 matches.

Wale Adejumo