According to a report by Daily Post on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle has been handed an encouraging injury update ahead of Nigeria's forthcoming international matches, with Nigerian defender Emmanuel Fernandez expected to resume training at Rangers on Thursday.

The 24-year-old centre-back picked up an ankle injury during Rangers' 1-0 triumph over Aberdeen in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden Park last Saturday.

His fitness situation initially became a concern ahead of Rangers' Scottish Premiership encounter with St Mirren, scheduled for this weekend. However, Rangers manager Derek McInnes has now provided a positive update regarding the defender's recovery.

Speaking on Wednesday, McInnes confirmed that Fernandez had experienced an ankle problem following the Aberdeen encounter but was expected to return to training the following day.

The Rangers boss also indicated that the Nigerian international should be available for Saturday's meeting with St Mirren, suggesting that his recovery is progressing well.

This development will come as encouraging news to Chelle, who is currently preparing to select his players for Nigeria's important 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

Nigeria will begin the two-legged contest with a home fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on November 13. The Super Eagles will then travel to Dar es Salaam for the return match scheduled for November 17.

Fernandez's recovery provides another positive option for the Nigerian coaching staff as the team prepares for the important encounters. His return to competitive action could also help him maintain his fitness ahead of the national team's assignments.