Rangers centre-back Leon Balogun has played a key role in the team’s improved form in recent months.
The 35-year-old was brought back to the club by Michael Beale in the summer after a year at Queens Park Rangers but it is current manager Philippe Clement who has given the veteran more game time.
Since Clement’s appointment in mid-October, Balogun has started 7 of the Belgian’s 10 league matches in charge, and the Light Blues have only dropped two points when he has been in the starting eleven this season. Fans on X have been quick to recognise the defender’s contributions:
Been immense since coming back in, give me 11 with his character, will & determination all day long. 🔴⚪️🔵🇬🇧
— Bill Storrie (@StorrieBill) December 24, 2023
top drawer give his tank every week wins every header – massive for us i think he makes goldson better honestly
— anthony griffiths (@Antsg3Griffiths) December 24, 2023
Leon has been brilliant. Needs to be kept in the team
— susan (@Rangerslass1872) December 25, 2023
Been the difference in that defence.
— Uncle Albertz (@skoosh1) December 24, 2023
He’s been absolutely immense since the new gaffer brought him back in
— Daniel Gillespie (@balinoeblondie) December 24, 2023
Best defender at the club
— Jack Union (@Union55Jack) December 24, 2023
Big man is a class act
— Paul Smith (@Pwsmid) December 24, 2023
The guy is colossal n he loves the Rangers,also g as he keeps Ben Davis out il be happy
— boyblue (@boy_blue1872) December 24, 2023
Balogun is a solid and reliable centre-half
Consistency is what you need most from those who play in the centre of defence and Balogun is certainly someone who will never let you down.
No matter whether the Nigerian is playing alongside Connor Goldson or John Souttar, he is able to offer a solid foundation at the back that Clement can rely upon.
He could strengthen Rangers’ chances in the Europa League
As he wasn’t handed a place in the Gers’ squad for the group phase of the Europa League by Beale, Balogun has had to sit out the six matches that Clement’s side have had in the competition so far.
However, based on his current form, the defender is almost guaranteed to be added to the club’s options for the knockout rounds next year.