Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez has expressed pride and gratitude after being crowned Rangers' Player of the Year, capping off an outstanding debut campaign with the Scottish giants.

Fernandez joined the club last summer from Peterborough United and, despite a challenging start to life in Scotland, quickly established himself as a key figure in the squad with a string of commanding performances.

The Nigeria international impressed on both ends of the pitch, combining defensive solidity with an eye for goal, scoring six times in 29 appearances across all competitions.

His consistency and impact did not go unnoticed, as he was voted the club's Player of the Year by supporters.

Reacting to the honour via social media, Fernandez described the recognition as a deeply personal milestone.

"When I signed for this club, I knew what it meant," Emmanuel wrote on Instagram. "The badge, the history, the supporters who travel everywhere with us."

"To be voted Player of the Year in my first season here is something I'll carry with me forever. Thank you, truly."

Despite the individual accolade, Fernandez also reflected on Rangers' recent setback, a 3-2 home defeat to Motherwell at Ibrox, which dealt a blow to their Scottish Premiership title ambitions with only a few matches remaining.

"But football has a way of keeping you honest. Sunday hurt. It's still hurting. Moments like that remind you why this game demands everything you've got and then asks for a little more. Four games left. Everything to play for. 

"I didn't come here for individual awards, I came here to win. Same belief, same fight, same dream. Let's go," he added.

Fernandez's impressive club form has also been rewarded at international level, earning him a call-up to the Super Eagles.

The 24-year-old made his debut in a 2-1 victory over Iran before marking his first start with a goal against Jordan.

Adeyemi Adewale