'Superb', 'Outstanding' - BBC commentator wowed by what he saw Rangers man do v Celtic

Leon Balogun left Liam McLeod awestruck after an “outstanding” piece of defending against Daizen Maeda in Rangers’ Scottish League final loss to Celtic.

The defender was played a poor ball from James Tavernier but, fortunately, the centre-back reacted quickly and proved why Philippe Clement chose him as John Souttar’s replacement.

The Gers lost the final against Celtic 5-4 on penalties after a dramatic 3-3 draw, but Balogun earned rave reviews for his defending.

Speaking live on BBC Radio Scotland (15 December, 15:41pm), McLeod shared his thoughts on the defensive prowess the Nigeria international showed.

“[James] Tavernier is onto it at this near side, little ball back towards Balogun, it wasn’t the best one and [Kaizen] Maeda is in behind, [Leon] Balogun reacts brilliantly, superb defending,” he said.

“Diomande skips away from [Paulo] Bernardo, he’s been fouled by Bernardo on the edge of his own box, it’s a Rangers free-kick but that was outstanding defending from Leon Balogun.”

Leon Balogun has played a starring role for Rangers this season

Despite the fact Robin Propper was brought in during the summer as a replacement for Connor Goldson, it’s felt like Balogun has been Clement’s preferred option to partner Souttar this term.

Granted, it’s taking Propper some time to adjust to the rigours of the Scottish Premiership which is likely one of the main reasons Balogun has had an ever-present role but even at 36, he’s been strong.

Souttar is now unfortunately injured for a few weeks after limping off the pitch against Tottenham in their Europa League clash and while fans might not fancy their chances with Propper starting, a run of games could be exactly what he needs.

The Dutchman was more or less thrown into the deep end when he first arrived at Ibrox but now he’s had time to settle and get his bearings, having a run of games could be exactly what he needs to live up to Clement’s expectations from when he first signed him.

In other Rangers news, an ex-club employee says Nils Koppen has unearthed a gem at Ibrox.

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