Rangers boss provides fitness update on Super Eagles CB ahead of Scottish FA Cup final v Celtic
Published: May 19, 2024
Rangers manager Philippe Clement has provided an injury update on Leon Balogun before his side's final game of the 2023-2024 season, the Scottish FA Cup final against local rivals Celtic at Hampden Park, Glasgow on Saturday, May 25.
Balogun is racing to be fit for the showdown with the Hoops after suffering a back injury during the first half of Rangers' 4-1 win against Kilmarnock on May 5.
Since then, the Nigeria international has missed three consecutive matches played by the Light Blues, including the crucial trip to Celtic.
Rangers have struggled in defence with Balogun missing, having conceded seven goals in their last three games.
After seeing his game time limited for several months following his return to Rangers last summer, Balogun managed to force his way into the starting lineup before his recent spell on the sidelines, starting three consecutive matches in all competitions.
Philippe Clement is keeping his fingers crosses regarding the availability of Balogun for the clash with Celtic.
Speaking to reporters at the post-match press conference after his side's six-goal thriller against Hearts, the Belgian football tactician said: "We will see if Leon Balogun can be fit again, I hope so. We're going to see this week what is going to happen, so in that way it's difficult for me to to plan the starting XI for the game or what changes we will make.
"I'm going to need to assess together with the medical staff and performance staff first who's going to be available for that game and for how many minutes."
Balogun received rave reviews for his impressive display during Rangers' 2-0 win versus Hearts in the semifinals of the Scottish FA Cup about a month ago.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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