Balogun hoping to extend Rangers contract, aims for win vs RB Leipzig in memory of Jimmy Bell

Leon Balogun is not planning to hang up his boots despite his advanced years as a footballer and is hoping to extend his contract with Rangers or move on to pastures new in the summer if his stay at the Ibrox Stadium is not extended.

The 33-year-old central defender is in the last two months of his contract with the Scottish Premiership champions and it is unclear whether he has been offered fresh terms.

The Nigeria national teamer was a key player for Rangers last season, helping them win the title in his maiden season in Scotland following his transfer from Brighton & Hove, and has played a part in the Light Blues being on the brink of qualifying for the final of the UEFA Europa League plus reaching the Scottish Cup final this term.

The Rangers number 26 spoke to the official website of Mainz - his last club in Germany prior to moving to the United Kingdom - ahead of tonight's Europa League semifinal clash with RB Leipzig at Ibrox Stadium.

"I'm confident enough to say I feel in great shape and have a few more years to play," Balogun said.

Two days ago, Rangers announced the passing of long-serving kit man Jimmy Bell after thirty years at the club.

Balogun has said that the Rangers are motivated to beat RB Leipzig and qualify for the Europa League final in memory of their legendary kit man.

"Emotionally, it's clearly another motivation now. If we do it, it would be the best thing we can do for Jimmy's memory.

"It might sound crazy if you're not part of the Rangers family, but I would say that there is nobody who wanted to win games for this club as badly as this man. We'll keep that in mind when we enter the stadium."

Balogun has been involved in nine of the thirteen matches played by Rangers in this season's Europa League and got his name on the scoresheet twice, against Brondby and Red Star Belgrade.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : rangers.co.uk

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