What former Sunderland midfielder said about Balogun during St.Johnstone v Rangers

Speaking during his commentary duty in Rangers 1-0 win over St.Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership fixture played at McDiarmid Park on Sunday afternoon, former Sunderland midfielder Derek Ferguson believes Leon Balogun's presence improves the Light Blues.

The only goal of the game was scored in the 63rd minute when Jason Holt knocked the ball into his own net after being put under pressure by James Tavernier.

Philippe Clement named Balogun among the substitutes for the third consecutive game across all competitions.

He dropped him to the bench for last weekend's Scottish Premiership clash against Dundee United and the UEFA Europa League meeting with OGC Nice on Thursday and then for today's fixture.

The veteran centre-back was brought on for Robin Pröpper at the start of the second half as the latter had picked up a knock in the first half, thus resulting in his substitution.

Ferguson was impressed with the performance of the 36-year-old and believes Rangers are a much better side with him in the defence.

"What a difference when you have a defender who has the pace, power and calmness in possession,” he told BBC Sportsound.

"That's what Balogun, at the ripe age of 36, provides. It gives confidence to the players in front of him."

Balogun's last start was in the 1-0 win over Heart of Midlothian, which coincidentally was the last time the Scottish giants kept a clean sheet before this afternoon's clash.

He has started just seven games this term but has garnered 12 appearances across all competitions.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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