Rangers head coach Philippe Clement has confirmed that Nigerian defender Leon Balogun will return to training this week, marking a key step in his recovery from injury.
The 36-year-old has been an important figure for the Gers this season, featuring more regularly than in the previous campaign. However, he has been side-lined since Rangers’ dramatic 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League, where Cyriel Dessers netted a late equalizer before Bruno Fernandes sealed the win in stoppage time.
Balogun was forced off at halftime in that match and has not played since. Ahead of Rangers’ Scottish Cup clash against Queens Park—which ended in a shock 1-0 loss—Clement provided an update on his squad’s injury situation, including Balogun’s progress.
“Oscar Cortes will still be a few weeks away. We have some players who will return soon. Danilo should be back next week,” Clement said, as quoted by Rangers Review.
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“I expect Dujon Sterling and Leon Balogun to return the following week. Ridvan is already back in training, and Leon King has also resumed training after his concussion.”
Despite his recent injury struggles, Balogun remains eager to contribute both for Rangers and the Nigerian national team, keeping the door open for a potential Super Eagles call-up.
So far this season, the experienced centre-back has made 19 appearances for Rangers across all competitions, scoring one goal and providing one assist.