Steven Gerrard’s Rangers looking to extend Nigeria’s trio stay in Rangers ahead of AFCON 2022

Steven Gerrard’s Rangers are looking to negotiate with the NFF to extend Nigerian players’ stay in Rangers until January 2nd.

The Scottish giants want to keep Joe Aribo, Leon Balogun, and Calvin Bassey for their encounter against Celtic on January 2nd 2022. 

Due to FIFA’s mandate, all African players are expected to be released by their clubs on December 27th.

According to the Daily Record, the Scottish outfit will look to negotiate an extended stay for their Super Eagles stars.

The 2022 AFCON is expected to start from January 9th to February 6th, with three Rangers stars expected to be selected by Nigeria.

However, Ranger’s sporting director Ross Wilson is in discussion with the NFF to permit the players to stay until after the Celtic game.

Ranger’s manager Steven Gerrard and Club’s Sporting Director have a good relationship with Gernot Rohr. This might give the Rangers an advantage in the negotiation with the NFF.

Balogun and Aribo have been crucial for the Gers, and they are desperate to have their key men against Celtic.

Meanwhile, Calvin Bassey —who got his first call-up for the National team in October 2021– could make the final squad.

There is no agreement between the NFF and Rangers at the moment. Nigeria is in Group D of the AFCON 2022 hosted by Cameroon. The three-time African Champions will play in the Same group with Egypt, Guinea-Bissau, and Sudan.

The Super Eagles will kick-start their tournament on January 11th 2022, against Egypt.