Rangers manager Steven Gerrard dropped a selection hint ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash against Royal Antwerp by recalling Leon Balogun against Kilmarnock on Saturday.
Prior to the weekend, Filip Helander had put together a run of games alongside vice-captain Connor Goldson at centre-back.
However, the big Swede wasn’t at his best in the recent 1-1 draw at Hamilton and was subsequently taken out of the starting XI.
Balogun was brought in from the cold for his first appearance in almost a month and the decision gives an insight into Gerrard’s thinking ahead of a big trip to Belgium.
The Nigeria international was the Gers boss’ go-to man during the Europa League group stages, starting five of the six matches and impressing alongside Goldson.
Had he been left out once again against Kilmarnock, his chances of a recall for the Round of 32 first leg in Antwerp would have been slim to none after a substantial period out of action.
However, the fact that he returned to the side for the Premiership fixture was a strong indication that he’ll line up against The Great Old on Thursday night.
Balogun had a few shaky moments at the weekend but he contributed to yet another Premiership clean sheet and remarkably, the Gers have only conceded three times in the 13 league matches he’s started so far this season.
The 32-year-old also played a big part in three shutouts in the EL group stages and it’s likely that he’ll be the player Gerrard selects alongside Goldson in both legs of the upcoming Round of 32 tie.
Rangers’ opponents Royal Antwerp recently received a major boost through the loan signing of a Premier League player but were dealt a substantial blow at the weekend.
