Rangers handed boost pre-Celtic as GvB confirms Super Eagles defender is in provisional squad

Published: February 01, 2022

Scottish champions Rangers have been handed a boost ahead of the Old Firm derby with manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst revealing at the pre-match press conference that Leon Balogun is in the provisional squad for Wednesday night's clash at Celtic Park.

The central defender pulled out of the Nigeria squad for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations due to a back injury he suffered during the League Cup clash versus Hibernian on November 21.

Having returned to action exactly two months later against Stirling Albion in the SFA Cup, Balogun has been omitted from the last two matchday squads, an indication that he may have suffered a relapse.

Providing an injury update on Leon Balogun and Fil Helander, Giovanni van Bronckhorst told reporters : "Helander is still out, he has to play games to get his rhythm back so hopefully he can also feature in the next coming weeks.

"Leon is fit so he's traveling with us tomorrow. "

Another Nigerian center back in Calvin Bassey acted as cover for Balogun during his spell on the sidelines.

Former Brighton & Hove and Mainz star Balogun has entered the last five months of his contract with the Light Blues.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : rangers.co.uk

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com