Leon Balogun: Rangers Centre Back Suffers Injury Blow in Victory Over Kilmarnock

• Leon Balogun was subbed off in Rangers' win over Kilmarnock
• The Nigerian defender was forced off due to an injury concern
• Manager, Philippe Clement, hoped the injury wasn't so serious

Leon Balogun had to leave the field after picking up a suspected injury as Rangers thrashed Kilmarnock 4-1 in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday, May 5.

The Light Blues mustered a fantastic comeback in the clash at the Ibrox Stadium, with Fábio Silva, Ben Davies, Tom Lawrence, and John Souttar all scoring.

Despite having started three consecutive matches in all competitions, the Nigerian defender was withdrawn at half-time by head coach, Philippe Clement.

Explaining the substitution, Clement disclosed that Balogun was forced off due to an injury concern.

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"That's why we had to take him off. We have no clue at the moment; we will see in the next few days what the situation is. Again, everybody is ready to step in and do a job for the team," he said, as reported by All Nigeria Soccer.

However, the manager anticipates the Nigerian will be available for the upcoming crucial fixture against arch-rivals, Celtic, on Saturday, May 11.

Balogun's injury setback arrives at a pivotal juncture as he aims for a contract extension with Rangers. His current deal expires at the end of the season.

As per TransferMarkt, the 35-year-old has featured in 18 games, with 17 starts, and remains eager to prolong his journey with the 55-time Scottish Champions.

Despite enjoying significant playing time earlier this season under Michael Beale, Balogun's opportunities dwindled following Clement's appointment.

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Talks for a contract renewal reportedly faltered due to concerns over his injury history and form cited by former coach, Giovanni Van Bronckhorst.

Balogun wants punishment for fans who abuse players online

Sports Brief also previously reported that Balogun spoke out against the abuse football players endure from angry and often unreasonable supporters.

Fulham midfielder, Alex Iwobi, was the latest to suffer from bullying on social media following Nigeria’s loss against Ivory Coast in the 2023 AFCON final.

The centre-back said that buying a ticket to watch a football game does not give fans the right to hurl abusive words at a player, whether on or off the pitch.