Leon Balogun: Super Eagles Defender Secures One Year Contract Extension with Rangers

Leon Balogun: Super Eagles Defender Secures One Year Contract Extension with Rangers

Robert Abong'o
May 27, 2024 at 8:43 PM
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  • Leon Balogun has extended his contract with Rangers for another year
  • The defender played a crucial role in the club's Scottish League Cup victory
  • The 55-time champions are looking to add to their central defensive options

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Veteran Super Eagles defender, Leon Balogun, has committed to another year at Rangers, following the extension of his contract with the Scottish champions.

The 35-year-old rejoined the club last summer from Queens Park Rangers for his second spell at the club.

However, his season did not unfold as he had hoped, with only 18 appearances throughout the campaign.

Leon Balogun has secured a contract extension with Rangers. Photo: Ian MacNicol.
Rangers' Leon Balogun inspects the pitch prior to the Viaplay Cup semi final vs Heart of Midlothian at Hampden Park on November 5, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. Photo: Ian MacNicol.
Source: Getty Images

Balogun struggled for game time, featuring in just one of the first ten matches. His fortunes changed in November when he secured a regular spot in the team and contributed significantly to Rangers’ Scottish League Cup victory.

Despite this, his momentum was halted in February due to an injury, limiting him to only three appearances before returning in time for the Scottish Cup final against Celtic. Unfortunately, another injury prevented him from participating in the Scottish Cup final.

Per Soccernet, Rangers coach, Philippe Clement, had rewarded the Nigerian international with a contract extension, acknowledging his contributions and leadership on and off the pitch during the latter part of the season.

Balogun has made 19 appearances this season, starting in 17 of those games, according to TransferMarkt.

In addition to the Nigerian's extension, Rangers are negotiating renewals with several other key defenders, including John Souttar, Connor Goldson, Ben Davies, and Leon King.

Balogun's international career with Nigeria continues to be noteworthy. His last appearance for the Super Eagles was in their 10-0 thrashing of São Tomé and Príncipe.

Balogun suffers injury blow in victory over Kilmarnock

Sports Brief reported that 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.

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Robert Abong'o
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