‘Tremendous’ – Exclusive: McLeish wants new contract for Rangers ace, deal expires this season
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 backed Rangers to offer Leon Balogun a new contract as his current deal comes to an end this season.
Steven Gerrard admitted in his latest press conference that he wants to keep hold of the Nigerian international after he arrived on a free transfer last summer.
McLeish believes that Balogun has been “absolutely tremendous”, and that he will want to be part of any success coming at Ibrox.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, McLeish said, “What we’ve seen, he’s been absolutely tremendous.
“He was brought back in last week, and you have to say that his performances have been at a good level. Not only has he been a good defender, he’s charged up the pitch and seems to be a good all-round footballer.
“I think he’s been a really good acquisition, and he’ll surely want to be part of any success that Rangers have.”
Balogun has been superb this season.
With Nikola Katic still out injured, the Nigerian has added real strength and competition for the likes of Filip Helander and Conor Goldson.
The 32-year-old has made more interceptions than Goldson and Helander according to WhoScored and has played a massive role in conceding only five goals this season.
Gerrard has built an excellent squad at Ibrox, and smart deals such as Balogun coming in on a free transfer is the perfect example of his work.
It should be a no-brainer to keep the defender.
In other Rangers news, Nikica Jelavic makes £100million-plus claim on Ibrox squad