Philippe Clement explains where Leon Balogun has been | OneFootball

Philippe Clement has delivered what may be his first address on German-born Nigerian defender Leon Balogun, after a German journo from national broadcaster ARD asked for an update on Rangers’ trusty stopper.

Asked for his general view on the ex-Bremen man (who is very well-known back in his birthplace), Clement was very positive about him and explained where he’s been lately, and why he’s not been in the lineup.

He said:

So in other words, he didn’t have enough subs to make those changes, and with subs these days being a maximum of five, and no issues with unfit defenders, Clement prioritised rotating strikers and wingers to get them minutes in their legs.

He went on:

As we all know Connor Goldson is 100% immune, no matter how he plays, so let’s not go there. The bottom line is John Souttar has been superb in 2024, and there’s no scope really to rotate him, because that costs a sub up front, and with all the injuries up there and need to get players fit, Clement decided to prioritise that area for the subs.

Many would argue, rightly, that Balogun and Souttar are Rangers’ best defensive pairing, but Goldson will never be dropped under any manager at this club. So for now, Balogun is holding his head high and doing what he can for the club, while waiting for an opportunity to play again.

We do hope we get to see him again soon.