Rangers center-back Balogun says he's forbidden to mention Celtic; considers return to Germany

Published: March 17, 2021

Nigeria international center-back Leon Balogun has sensationally revealed that he is forbidden to mention Celtic's name ever since he linked up with Glasgow Rangers.

The two most successful clubs in Scotland, Rangers and Celtic have a heated rivalry and the Old Firm derby is one of the hotly-contested and complicated matches in the world.

While Celtic have won the top-flight on 51 occasions, the Light Blues have been crowned champions 55 times, including the 2020-2021 campaign.

Asked if he doesn't mention Celtic with his mouth, Balogun told German television Sport1 : "No. I got used to that right away.

"I don't say the name of this other group, I always say, those from the other side of town or from elsewhere. (laughs)".

Balogun was delighted to help Rangers stop their bitter rivals, Celtic from winning their tenth title in a row.

"That it happened in my first year isn't even a priority. The cool thing about this thing is that I'm part of a team that has tried in the past few years to stop the other side of town and polish up the Rangers logo.

"It never worked and this season the big topic was to stop their "Ten in a Row" - that is, ten championships in a row - which neither team has yet succeeded in doing.

"That's what's much bigger about history, especially in view of the recent past. Sure, for me it's the first championship title in my career. But I have to let that sink in first."

Balogun is considering a return to Germany in the long term but stressed that he feels at home at Rangers and dreams of representing the club in next season's Champions League.

"I was born in Berlin and if there were another opportunity for me at home or in Germany, it would be outstanding.

"But with the Rangers we are first looking at the Champions League, which could be possible if we successfully qualify.

"Who wants to miss this? When I stop playing football, I will return to Germany. If that happens before then, I don't mind. But my near future lies with the Rangers," he added.

Balogun is in contention to return to the Rangers squad for Thursday night's Europa League round of 16 second leg clash against Slavia Prague after serving a one-game ban that saw him miss the first leg last week.

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