Leon Balogun factor massive at Rangers as Philippe Clement makes Ibrox squad moves
Derek Ferguson is in full support of Leon Balogun’s Rangers contract extension because the defender still has his pace.
The centre-back’s deal was due to expire at the end of the month but the club announced he had signed on for another year on 1 June after five first-team players were confirmed as leaving.
Although the Nigerian international is set to turn 36 before the end of June Ferguson isn’t concerned as Balogun still has good pace, which the pundit calls “massive” in the modern game.
So the veteran’s continued physical capabilities combined with his influence in the dressing room make the decision to offer him a new deal a strong one.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News: “He’s an experienced boy and he’s got a bit of pace about him. I think he showed his capabilities in the cup final, although it wasn’t a great game.
“Listen, pace is massive in the modern game. Sometimes when players make mistakes you need that recovery, and Balogun’s got that in his locker.
“I know he’s a fair old age now but he’s not lost his pace, and his experience, he’s an old head. The manager has spoken often that he’s an influence in the dressing room on the younger players.
“So if he’s going to sign another year’s contract I’m all for it.”
Philippe Clement keeps veteran Rangers defender at Ibrox
Arguably, if any of Connor Goldson, John Souttar or Ben Davies had shown the desired consistency in the past couple of seasons Balogun would be leaving in just over four weeks’ time.
But the reality of the situation is that Philippe Clement’s centre-back options all blow hot and cold and the eldest of all four might be the strongest performer of all still.
The manager is going to have to be smart about where he directs whatever transfer budget the club can put together this summer and a low-cost retention of Balogun at this stage should save some funds for new signings elsewhere.
He has previously made clear his hopes of remaining at Ibrox due to his connection to the club and he has now got what he wanted.
In other Rangers news, Lawrence Shankland could be on his way to Ibrox this summer after developments at Hearts.
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