Nigeria: Emmanuel Fernandez in line for Tanzania qualifier recall

Emmanuel Fernandez could return to the Nigeria squad for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Tanzania after an injury to Hull City defender Semi Ajayi.

The Rangers defender was initially left out of Nigeria’s squad for the qualifiers. However, reports from Nigeria indicate Fernandez is the leading candidate to replace Ajayi, who was injured during Hull City’s match against Arsenal at the weekend.

Any call-up would depend on Ajayi’s recovery before Nigeria’s games against Tanzania.

Fernandez earned his fourth international cap in Nigeria’s 3-3 friendly draw with Russia last month. The defender has also become an important player for Derek McInnes at Rangers, making his 20th appearance of the season in their weekend victory over St Mirren.