Former Rangers defender Leon Balogun has officially joined back up with Michael Beale at QPR – officially putting an end to debate regarding a potential return to Ibrox.
The Nigerian international centre-back, 34, was released from the Gers in the summer after two years at the club where Balogun impressed and found a home in Glasgow.
But despite an appeal regarding an extension to his contract, Rangers let the player go with fitness issues and different targets at the forefront of the club’s mind
However, Rangers find themselves down to the bare bones defensively with Ibrox centre-back trio Filip Helander, John Souttar and Ben Davies all on the treatment table.
It’s had Rangers fans everywhere asking if the club was right to let Leon Balogun walk, and this intensified following the comments of club legend Ally McCoist on the situation.
Leon Balogun Rangers return debate settled by QPR move
McCoist was speaking after the club lost two goals from corners in the 2-2 home draw in the first leg of the Champions League Playoff with PSV Eindhoven, claiming he was “surprised” the club let the big defender go.
However, any suggestion Leon Balogun could return to Ibrox has been settled by the player signing on at QPR, where the German-born Nigerian cannot wait to get started.
“It is a big relief to know I can get back to action and I am looking forward to it,” said Balogun [QPR].
“We have been speaking for some weeks so I am happy we got it done.
“The manager is one of the main factors for me. When he left Rangers I messaged him and said in terms of a football brain he is one of the best I have worked with.
“He is obsessed with football and what I always admire about him is the way he treated the players, and the way he got ideas into your mind.
“I am more than delighted to work with him again and to be part of this project here, and hopefully leave a great mark.”
Rangers fans will wish Leon Balogun all the best at QPR and reflect on an impressive two seasons at Ibrox where the defender won the Premiership and Scottish Cup and helped reach the Europa League Final.
Meanwhile, read about how one former Celtic boss finds himself at the centre of yet another potentially exciting Rangers transfer.
