Rangers defender Leon Balogun will be hoping he is included in the Nigeria squad that will compete in the African Cup of Nations between January 9 and February 6.
Balogun, who is currently injured at the minute and last featured for the club in the 3-1 defeat to Hibs in the League Cup semi-final, will be aiming to return to fitness as Nigeria aims to win the tournament for the fourth time.
The 33-year-old spoke to Nigerian outlet MTN Nigeria about the forthcoming tournament and what he hopes to achieve with the Super Eagles.
“Expectations are very high, but I’m just happy and grateful for another great opportunity to play in a big tournament with Nigeria,” Balogun said.
“I bring maybe some kind of German mentality in here. I know some of the lads sometimes think I’m too strict and too vocal, but that’s just me and the game, it’s never personal. It’s just how I was raised in football.
“I think I’ve been very blessed and happy to play in a generation of the Super Eagles where we always have great unity.” said the Rangers defender.
Although there are fears that the tournament may be cancelled at short notice, with the current Omicron variant spreading rapidly, a decision may yet take place nearer the start of the competition.
Balogun has missed the last seven matches for Rangers and will relish the opportunity to feature for van Bronckhorst’s team before the winter break and prove his fitness before Africa’s biggest tournament.
The Super Eagles hopes may rest on it.
Meanwhile, on the topic of the African Cup of Nations, Rangers have received positive news as three key players will be available for the vital tie against Celtic on January 2.
