Rangers 1-0 Jablonec: Fernandez criticised in Conference League

Emmanuel Fernandez has come under renewed criticism after Rangers edged Jablonec 1-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League play-off at Ibrox. Ryan Naderi scored after half-time to give Derek McInnes’ team a narrow advantage before next week’s return in the Czech Republic.

The Nigeria international started in central defence but was booked in the 11th minute for a foul on Jablonec striker Lamin Jawo. The two players were involved in a physical contest for much of the match, with Jawo later suggesting that Fernandez did not present an especially difficult challenge.

Jawo recognised Fernandez’s ability but said his experience against strong Czech defenders meant the duel felt evenly matched. The Gambian also believed he had taken the greater share of their aerial battles, adding to the scrutiny around the Rangers defender after another demanding night.

Fernandez’s latest criticism follows a difficult opening to the season. He was questioned after Rangers lost 2-1 to Jagiellonia Białystok in the Europa League qualifiers, while former Rangers striker Peter Lovenkrands criticised his performance in the 5-1 Scottish League Cup win against St Mirren.

Lovenkrands had highlighted Fernandez’s untidy play, his booking and the penalty he conceded in that match. The defender has therefore faced scrutiny in three consecutive weeks, even though Rangers have collected positive results in two of those fixtures.

The attention contrasts with Fernandez’s standing last season, when his performances earned him Rangers’ Player of the Year award. McInnes continues to select the 25-year-old in central defence, with Ben Godfrey unavailable and Olwethu Makhanya still being brought into the side.

Rangers will defend their 1-0 lead in the second leg next week. Jawo said Jablonec remained confident of overturning the deficit, pointing to the Czech club’s strength at home and their belief that they can play with greater attacking intent there. Fernandez is expected to remain central to Rangers’ attempt to reach the next round.