“Look somewhere else” – Rangers legend reacts to Leon Balogun contract renewal talks

Former Rangers and Scotland midfleider, Derek Ferguson, has warned the Scottish Record champions against renewing Leon Balogun’s contract, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 36-year-old returned to Hampden Park in the summer of 2023 after a brief stint with Queens Park Rangers in the EFL Championship, penning a one-year deal with Rangers. Before the end of last season, his stay with the club was extended for another year.

This season, the Nigerian defender has racked up more appearances than he managed throughout the entirety of last campaign, but he has also been riddled with injuries, and his body is beginning to tell as he nears the end of his career.

In 12 starts for Barry Ferguson’s side this season, Balogun has only completed four and was subbed off in eight of those due to injuries.

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While many have tipped the former Mainz 05 man to stay in Rangers for another year, Derek Ferguson, Barry Ferguson’s (the Gers current head coach), thinks otherwise.

Balogun shows what it means to be a player for Rangers, giving his all on the pitch till his lungs give out. Ferguson believes his body can’t simply take it anymore, and a renewal is not worth the risk.

“I think he’ll be off. He’s done terrifically well since coming back in, but he’s 36 and injury-prone. He’s a good player, but is he someone Rangers should be looking to tie down? No. He’s done well across two spells, but no, it’s time for Leon to look elsewhere.

“Rangers will need to look for a younger version of Balogun – a player with pace, power and good in the air. Leon is just too fragile,” the 57-year-old said in an interview with Ibrox News.

While there’s barely anything left for Rangers to salvage domestically, the fighting spirit they displayed yesterday will be crucial in their UEFA Europa League campaign. Knowing it could be his last lap, Leon Balogun will be giving his all to fight for his potential debut European trophy.

The Gers will play against Athletic Club in the Europa League quarter-final on the 10th of April. The first leg will be played at Hampden Park, giving the Scottish side the home advantage.