‘Big unit’ – Exclusive: McLeish impressed by ‘Thriving’ Gers star after return to XI v Celtic
We’re delighted to welcome former Rangers manager Alex McLeish as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Ibrox…
Alex McLeish has been impressed with Rangers defender Leon Balogun after he returned to the starting XI in the 1-0 victory against Celtic.
Steven Gerrard rotated his defence against St. Mirren in the week, bringing back in Filip Helander to partner the ever-present Conor Goldson.
McLeish believes that the Nigerian international is ahead of Helander at Ibrox, and is thriving in the role handed to him by Gerrard.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, McLeish said, “I’ve not seen much of Helander, he’s a big lad, a big unit and Balogun has been quite impressive.
“He’s played more games recently, and he’s thriving in that position, he’s thriving when driving forward, but it’s good options for Stevie right now.
“Balogun, at the moment, I felt was slightly ahead of Helander. If there’s a little bit of tiredness, then those can be factors as well.”
Gerrard admitted recently that he prefers to play Balogun when the opposing side has good amounts of pace in the final third, so it was no surprise to see him return on Saturday.
After coming in on a free transfer in the summer, the 32-year-old has been superb in the absence of Nikola Katic, who remains out injured.
Comparing the duo via WhoScored, both have made 13 appearances this season. Helander has won more tackles and made more clearances.
But, Balogun has completed more interceptions and has been dribbled past fewer times than his Swedish teammate.
Both are great options, and the longer Gerrard can keep them both happy, the better his options will be at Ibrox.
In other Rangers news, Chris Sutton claims this Bears ace is the difference in title race