Super Eagles: Fernandez Names Three Nigerian Role Models

Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has named three former Super Eagles captains as his Nigerian football role models.

Fernandez identified Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, Joseph Yobo and William Troost-Ekong as the players he admired while growing up.

The 25-year-old made the revelation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Speaking to Football Fans Tribe about his role models, Fernandez said, “Troost-Ekong, Joseph Yobo, and, of course, Jay-Jay Okocha.”

He also explained why Okocha stands out to him, particularly because of the former midfielder’s style and ability with the ball.

“I think the style, elegance, and things that he [Okocha] does with the ball—I think everyone growing up wants to play like that. Obviously, things change, and you end up not playing like that,” Fernandez said.

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Fernandez will now be hoping to contribute to the Super Eagles as Nigeria prepares for the important AFCON 2027 qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.