Balogun slams ‘extremely disrespectful’ fans after what he’s heard at Rangers
Leon Balogun has bitten back at Rangers supporters for their use of language at Ibrox amid constant criticism of Cyriel Dessers.
The 30-year-old striker, who is being heavily linked with an exit this window, has been hounded by the fans ever since his arrival, not because of attitude but his lack of ability on the pitch.
Despite scoring 22 goals in his first season, the Ibrox faithful are joined by the media in criticising the forward, who could soon be ending his short spell in Scotland.
Speaking via the Counter Attack podcast [20 January], Balogun said: “We’ve had it here in the past when a player comes on and gets booed or a player comes off and gets clapped off in a sarcastic way.
“I don’t condone that at all because it’s the same player you want to score or defend better. You can criticise them heavily, but watch the language. It is extremely disrespectful.
“Some fans would say their performance was disrespectful but if you see the effort [they put in] then you can’t put that on disrespect because he has tried his best. It’s all you can do.
“You can criticise his [Dessers’] quality but it’s all about how you do things in life and certain things are off limits for me, so that’s poor. He’s a great guy. I think just for the way he dealt with his situation, he’s got some big balls on him, honestly.”
Does Cyriel Dessers deserve more respect at Rangers?
It’s a tough one, that’s for sure. Fans absolutely deserve to have their thoughts heard, especially with the club in its current situation, and spending their hard-earned money on tickets and travel.
However, many supporters continue to forget that footballers are just people too, trying to put on a show for the fans and earn a living, ultimately helping their families to thrive away from the sport.
A lot of the criticism aimed at Dessers has been understandable as he continues to miss numerous amounts of big chances, but a small minority likely take it to the extreme in front of vulnerable fans.
There are similar situations up and down the country at different stadiums. It won’t be any different at Ibrox, but Balogun has every right to voice his concerns.
The players likely have their own families and children in the crowds, and with many stars being slammed by the supporters this season, there is cause for concern and safety at this point.
In other Rangers news, one player must have played his final game under Philippe Clement after new Ibrox developments.
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