Rangers must leave sentiment aside as Leon Balogun seeks contract reassurances
Leon Balogun is a popular figure among Rangers supporters not least because his attitude is always spot on.
He was ditched by former boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst at the end of the 2021-2022 Scottish Premiership season in a decision that left many surprised.
A little over a year later, the experienced centre-back was brought back to Glasgow by Michael Beale to add depth to his defensive options.
It is a decision that has certainly proved useful, with Balogun contributing 16 appearances to the Rangers cause across all competitions this season.
Balogun was particularly impressive as the Gers defeated Hearts 2-0 at Hampden Park on Sunday (21 April) to book a spot in the Scottish Cup final against Celtic.
Following that performance, Balogun was quoted as saying he hopes he can remain at the club next season by the Daily Record (23 April).
“I hope so. Has there been talks on my future? Not yet. I really don’t know what will happen. I think those decisions will be made within the club within the next few weeks,” he said.
“I hope I get a notification a bit more timely than the last time around! I would like to think I can be quite positive, touching on the manager choosing me on Sunday, but I can’t really tell you – I don’t know yet.”
Rangers have a couple of things to ponder here. On the one hand, Balogun has proven a very useful squad option this season and his experience can be very important for the dressing room.
But Philippe Clement has spoken in the past about not wanting a squad too heavy with players that have zero resale value.
Should Rangers hand Leon Balogun a new contract at Ibrox?
Balogun is 35 now and will be 36 now. That in itself shouldn’t be a huge issue if he contributes well on the pitch.
Rangers, though, must take sentiment out of the equation with this one. If they think Balogun still has plenty to offer then, by all means, let’s get a new contract on the table.
However, if there are chances to lower the age of the squad and bring in talent that could bring in a tidy little profit then that must also come into the thinking.
Whatever happens, though, it is important to communicate well with Balogun because his commitment to the cause means he deserves a huge amount of respect.
In other Rangers news, one midfielder has now been tipped to depart Ibrox.
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