Leon Balogun: Former West Ham Star Advocates for Nigerian Defender’s Contract Extension at Rangers

• Leon Balogun has been on top of his game for Rangers this year
• The Nigerian defender is seeking a contract extension at the club
• The 35-year-old's playing time has been very minimal this season

Former Celtic striker, Frank McAvennie, has voiced his support for the extension of Leon Balogun's contract with Rangers.

Balogun returned to the 55-time Scottish champions last summer for a second stint after his tenure with Queens Park Rangers ended.

However, his reintroduction to the team hasn't unfolded as planned, featuring in only 16 games this season and starting just one in the past 12 weeks.

McAvennie, reflecting on the centre-back's recent performance in the 2-0 victory over Hearts, contends that his display warrants more opportunities on the field.

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“I think Rangers fans will be frustrated if Goldson comes back in after Balogun’s performance now. Balogun was amazing, along with John Souttar. Rangers are going to need all their players for this run-in, but I think he deserves a new deal despite his age,” he said, as quoted by Football Insider.

Balogun's last league start was in January during Rangers' 3-0 victory over Hibernian.

While talks regarding a contract extension have not commenced, the Super Eagles outcast remains hopeful of a timely decision from the club. However, uncertainties linger as Rangers' reluctance to offer a new deal stems from concerns over his age and declining mobility, compounded by Coach Clement's apparent preference for Goldson.

“Has there been talks about my future? Not yet. I don’t know what will happen. I think the club will make those decisions within the next few weeks,” Balogun said, as quoted by Daily Record UK.

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Balogun wants punishment for fans who abuse players online

Sports Brief reported that Balogun kicked against the constant abuse suffered online by footballers from angry supporters.

Alex Iwobi was the latest footballer to suffer from fan bullying online after the Fulham midfielder was targeted by fans following Nigeria’s loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 AFCON final.

The centre-back said that because a fan buys a ticket to watch a game, it does not give them the right to hurl abusive words at a footballer on or off the pitch.