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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Leon Balogun to Rangers transfer signing branded 'desperate' by ex-Ibrox ace

Leon Balogun's return to Rangers has been branded "desperate" by a former Ibrox ace.

Former full-back Richard Foster reckons the return signing is not a "no-brainer" as he revealed his critical verdict on the defender.

Nigeria international Balogun, 35, agreed a one-year deal to return to Rangers under Michael Beale.

However, pundit Foster has suggested Balogun brings a "nervousness" to the Rangers defence as he slammed the popular stopper.

Speaking on Radio Scotland, Foster said: “I’m going to upset a lot of people here – but I do that no matter what I say.

“I think it’s a bit desperate from them (Rangers).

“I was never fully convinced with Balogun when he was here.

“Initially I gave him an allowance because I thought he was younger. I didn’t realise he was in his thirties.

“I think he makes a lot of mistakes and he doesn’t look composed when you compare him to Connor Goldson who for me is a very good defender.

“He’s composed and has a presence about him – and I don’t think that Balogun brings that.

“He brings a nervousness to the Rangers defence when he plays, from the outside looking in.”

On his return to Ibrox - which was announced with Balogun joining his team-mates in Germany for pre-season - Balogun told the club website: “I am just excited to be honest, it is still a bit unreal but it is very real, so I am just really really happy to be back at Rangers – it feels like coming home.”

“Since I have left, I have always felt a lot of appreciation and love from friends I have made in Glasgow and around the club and now that I am back it is nice to say the least. 

“I know second is no option, I know what people are going to say very quickly if we are not performing so it is time to get to work, put our best foot forward and make sure we get the results that we need.”


The Rangers Review team is taking the hugely-popular morning briefing LIVE at New Edmiston House on July 28.

And, we're delighted to announce that none other than Barry Ferguson will join our top team of Jonny McFarlane, Joshua Barrie, Stevie Clifford and Derek Clark.

The doors will open at 6.30pm giving you time to grab a beer or soft drink before we head into an hour of debate and chat ahead of the new season; expect new signing assessments, tactical analysis, predictions and the usual banter. Then, Derek will host an exclusive chat with Barry, gaining insight into his two trophy-laden spells at the club and his take on Michael Beale's rebuild.

Tickets start at just £21.50 and can be purchased HERE.

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