Rangers in talks with Nigerian FA over having Aribo and Balogun for January Celtic clash
Rangers want to strike a deal with Nigeria to ensure Leon Balogun, Joe Aribo and Calvin Bassey play against Celtic in January, according to Sunday Mail.
The trio risk missing out on the Old Firm clash on January 2 as FIFA rules mandate clubs to release their players on December 27 ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations – which starts on January 9.
However, Rangers are desperate to have them available for the trip to Parkhead and are confident of successfully negotiating with the country’s FA and manager Gernot Rohr for the players to report for duty after the Celtic game.
Bears boss Steven Gerrard and sporting director Ross Wilson have an excellent working relationship with Rohr and the Nigerian F.A, and that should help in talks.
Needed
Rangers know winning at Parkhead is of paramount importance to their chances of retaining the title, and Gerrard needs two of his key players available for the clash.
Balogun and Aribo have been very crucial for the Light Blues, but they are also key members of the Super Eagles and are set to be called up for the AFCON.
Bassey only earned his maiden call-up earlier this month but is yet to make his debut and is not guaranteed a spot for the tournament.
Nigeria kick off the tournament on January 11 and that could see the Rangers trio miss a couple of key games depending on how far they progress.
The Bears are out of action between January 2 and 22 due to the winter break, resuming with a Scottish Cup fourth-round tie.
With the AFCON final set for February 6, Gerrard could be without Balogun, Aribo and Bassey for the Cup clash and Premiership games against Livingston, Ross County and Hearts.
In other Rangers news, Bears fans will be buzzing with major Jim White-talkSPORT update on Thursday.