Balogun makes big Rangers claim after 1-0 Europa win on Thursday
Rangers defender Leon Balogun has claimed that the Rangers defence is the best he has ever played in following the Gers 1-0 win over Lech Poznan.
The Nigerian international played 90 minutes alongside Connor Goldson at the heart of Steven Gerrard’s back four and was effusive in his praise at full-time.
During his career, the 32-year-old has played for multiple clubs in the Bundesliga, Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League, Wigan Athletic in the Championship and for Nigeria on 32 occasions, including at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking after the game at Ibrox on Thursday, Balogun said that Rangers can be proud of what they have done so far.
“This is probably the best defensive unit I’ve been part of in my career,” he said (via Glasgow Evening Times).
“I think what we’ve done at the moment is something we can be proud of as a team — but the season is long and there’s no need to get carried away.
“However, after nights like this when everybody’s had to dig deep, it’s OK if we enjoy it before we move to the next game.
“We have great depth to the squad — there’s no loss of quality no matter who comes in and plays, and that’s something we can pride ourselves on.”
Working as a unit
The most impressive thing about Rangers this season has been their defence, which is the best in the league by some margin.
So far, the Gers have conceded just three goals from their opening 12 Scottish Premiership fixtures, while they have let in just one in two Europa League group stage matches (via WhoScored).
Furthermore, Gerrard has been forced to shuffle his pack, with Balogun and Calvin Bassey forced to step in the place of regulars Filip Helander and Borna Barisic.
Balogun was excellent against Poznan, completing 93% of his 46 passes, making one key pass, winning all of his aerial duels and tackles and making six clearances (via WhoScored).
With James Tavernier and Connor Goldson also continually outstanding, it is no surprise to see their defensive record is such good shape.
In other Rangers news, ‘Neil knows that’ – Alan Brazil makes Rangers claim after Celtic Europa stumble