Leon Balogun: What Can Fans Expect From This Warhorse Next Season?
Super Eagles dependable defender Leon Balogun is expected to play a key part in Rangers’ title defence next season having penned a new deal that will see him see out one more season in Scotland. After many years of Celtic hegemony of the Scottish League, Liverpool legend turn coach Stephen Gerrard masterminded Rangers’ victory this year with Leon Balogun at the heart of everything good about their defence. The German born defender even rolled back the years on occasions to play as a right fullback and despite not being the quickest, he acquitted himself vigorously thereby underscoring his versatility. Celtic are expected to approach next season like a wounded lion dying to reclaim lost grounds. Stephen Gerrard is acutely aware of this hence it shows how highly he rates Balogun to offer the 32 year old centre back a new contract thereby making him a part of the squad expected to prosecute their title defence. Age aside, pace has never been Balogun’s flagship skill. However, he has developed into a mature defender with the ability to read the game clearer, make neater interceptions, launch timely tackles and conduct himself with great composure from the back.
His ability to take the fight to the opposition – by charging the ball forward like a bull – has also improved exponentially. Little wonder Rangers rewarded him with a fresh deal. They will be looking to him to keep things tight for them at the back next season when they have to batten down the hatches. “I am delighted to secure the services of Leon for another year. Leon has been a consistent performer for me this season and has played a key role in strengthening our defence,”Gerrard told the club’s official website. For Nigeria, Balogun will be expected to play a huge part in efforts geared towards sealing World Cup qualification and then lifting the Cup of Nations trophy in Cameroon next year. With Rohr expected to rehash the so called Oyinbo ball wall partnership, Balogun will be expected produce compelling performances reminiscent of his outputs at 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Happily, the way his game evolved and enhanced in every aspect this season betokens well for what fans should expect from this ageless warrior for club and country next season.
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