McInnes defends Fernandez after Rangers draw at Hearts

Rangers manager Derek McInnes defended Emmanuel Fernandez after the defender was criticised following the team’s 2-2 draw at Hearts, saying the result was a collective performance rather than Fernandez’s responsibility alone. Rangers took the lead through Kevin Kelsy before Hearts scored twice, through Claudio Braga and Calvin Miller. Olwethu Makhanya headed in a late equaliser from a Badredine Bouanani free kick to secure a point for Rangers. Fernandez was involved in the build-up to Miller’s goal, according to match coverage. McInnes said Fernandez had been outstanding in the previous match against St Johnstone and had contributed to Rangers’ stronger performances this season. He also said players could perform better and that he had decisions to make across the team, particularly during a week with three matches. Former Rangers player Ian Ferguson, speaking on BBC Sportsound, said Fernandez had performed poorly and should have been substituted before halftime. Ferguson also criticised McInnes for not making changes sooner. Those comments were an assessment of Fernandez’s display; McInnes disputed the idea that the Hearts result rested on the defender alone. McInnes faces...