Rangers told to offer Leon Balogun new contract by Ibrox insider after latest development
Rangers have been told to offer Leon Balogun a new contract at Ibrox by Barry Ferguson following his excellent performance against Hearts.
The 35-year-old hasn’t been a regular under Philippe Clement so far this season but was recalled into the starting XI for the Scottish Cup semi-final win at Hampden Park in place of Connor Goldson who was rested.
Balogun’s current deal in Glasgow expires at the end of the season and after the Nigerian admitted he would like to extend his stay for another 12 months, Ibrox insider Ferguson has urged the Gers to tie him down.
Speaking on The Go Radio Football Show (24 April, 8:00) he said: “I’m not just saying it because of his performance on Sunday, I think Leon Balogun should get another contract. He’s not going to play every game but what a proper backup he is.
“He’s a proper defender, he’s a presence at the back and he keeps things very simple and I thought the difference with him in the team on Sunday was night and day. I don’t care about his age, but he’s clearly looking after himself and he’s a good professional.
“Yes, he’s getting on, but for me, I would totally give him another year’s contract.”
Will Rangers offer Leon Balogun a new contract after Barry Ferguson admission?
Clement isn’t blessed with defensive depth at this moment in time at Ibrox. Goldson’s form has been incredibly indifferent over the last few months and Ben Davies is seemingly out of the picture under the Belgian.
While there is an expectation that the Gers will recruit in the centre of defence during the summer transfer window, Balogun still has plenty to offer even if he won’t be a starter week in and week out next term.
The Nigerian showed against Hearts that he can still be a difference-maker in the biggest games of the campaign. That sort of experience and know-how could be crucial in both this year’s title race and next season’s fight.
Hopefully, Clement and those above him at Ibrox will follow Ferguson’s advice and get this deal over the line sooner rather than later. It appears to be a no-brainer for almost everyone involved, so an announcer could be made in the coming weeks.
In other Rangers news, John Hartson has slammed “embarrassing” Ibrox star Fabio Silva for a “ridiculous” moment against Hearts
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