Rangers back target and seek 'wee bit of reassurance' as issue emerges following Hearts match

Derek McInnes has launched a strong defence of his centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez amid criticism for his performance during the midweek draw with Hearts.

Fernandez was singled out by some pundits as a weak link during the 2-2 draw at Tynecastle, but his Rangers manager McInnes feels the result should not be laid at the feet of the Nigerian defender - and questioned why the former Peterborough man is not praised when he plays well.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final clash with Aberdeen, McInnes said: "I only get asked about Fernandez when he has a poor game. Nobody asked me about Fernandez on Saturday.

Emmanuel Fernandez and Rangers drew 2-2 against Hearts. | SNS Group

"He was outstanding on Saturday. He looks like he could've played St Johnstone himself at the back. I understand when players drop because he's got such a high ceiling and when he's good, he's very good. But that's the same for a lot of players.

"Last night wasn't on Manny Fernandez. Last night it was a collective. And I never get asked about Manny when he does really well and he's been a big part of our better performances this season."

Atalanta loanee Ben Godfrey is pushing for a return to the first team after injury and asked if he had a decision to make between him and Fernandez, McInnes responded: “I've got loads of decisions to make across the team, you know. We've been pretty consistent and we've been pretty good with results.

"I know it's not last night, it's not perfect and the last two away games we've drawn, but still unbeaten on the road, we've still been pretty strong; our record's been, not brilliant, but our unbeaten run's been going on for a while now.

"I think that while we recognise that individuals can play better last night, we've got decisions to make across the board, particularly when there are three games in the week."

Rangers do have an injury concern going into the match at Hampden, with midfield Tochi Chukwuani sent for a scan due to a knee complaint.

"Tochi's got a wee bit of a grumbling knee this morning, we're going to get him scanned this afternoon just to see how it is,” added the manager. “His knee is dry but he's got a wee bit of discomfort. We don't think it's anything too serious, but hopefully the scan gives us a wee bit of reassurance on that.”