Rangers star Jack Butland reacts as terms agreed for Mediterranean transfer
Leon Balogun has a new club after leaving Rangers.
The 36-year-old was released by the Light Blues despite featuring 29 times last season under Philippe Clement and interim boss Barry Ferguson.
The Nigerian shared his frustration with how his Ibrox exit played out back in May, as he wanted to remain in Govan beyond the end of the season but was not given the chance to do so.
Butland reacts to Balogun announcement
Balogun has signed for Aris Limassol and will link up with former Bears centre-back partner Connor Goldson for the Greek outfit.
The veteran took to Instagram (20 June) to announce the move in a shared post with his new team, and Cyriel Dessers, Nico Raskin and Jack Butland all liked it.
Former Gers aces Cedric Itten and Calvin Bassey also reacted, with Itten commenting on the post with two clapping hands emojis while Bassey liked the announcement.
Rangers were right to move on from Balogun
The circumstances of his departure from Auchenhowie may have been harsh, but it was the correct decision given his form and his age.
Despite his influence in the dressing room, his time on the pitch last season was underwhelming, with injuries hampering his ability to make an impact.
The veteran featured just 20 times in the Scottish Premiership and there is no guarantee that his fitness would have improved had he stayed in Govan.
He should have been handed a chance to say a proper goodbye to the supporters, but the actual decision to let him leave was a no-brainer for the Gers.
Focus must now turn to the transfer window and the 49ers and Andrew Cavenagh must secure Russell Martin the best possible players in order to try and overhaul Celtic.
If they fail to properly address the weaknesses in the summer, they may fall even further behind Brendan Rodgers’ side, rather than getting closer to them after a dismal season last time out.
Centre-back is a major area of concern, with John Souttar facing a race against time to be fit for the new campaign, Robin Propper reportedly on the way out and question marks over Clinton Nsiala’s quality.
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