“I think he deserves it” – former West Ham striker Frank McAvennie urges Rangers to extend Balogun’s contract

Former Celtic and West Ham United forward, Frank McAvennie, has urged the Rangers board to renew Leon Balogun’s contract, claiming the Nigerian deserves regular playing time, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 35-year-old centre-back rejoined Rangers for a second stint last summer after his contract with Queens Park Rangers expired, but the decision has not gone according to plan for him.

The former Mainz 05 man has been subject to just 16 games all season, starting one in the last twelve weeks. He was recalled into the starting eleven in Rangers 2-nil win over Hearts and McAvennie believes his performance should command more playing time at Ibrox.

Balogun’s contract with the Scottish record champions runs out in the summer, and with talks of a renewal absent, Frank McAvennie believes Rangers should extend his deal as his experience will come in handy for Philippe Clement’s side.

“Balogun played very well against Hearts. I don’t know what’s happened to Goldson, whether he’s been found out or if Clement is giving him a break.  I think that Rangers fans will be frustrated if Goldson comes straight back in after Balogun’s performance now. Balogun was amazing along with John Souttar. Rangers are going to need all their players for this run-in, but I think he deserves a new deal despite his age,” the former West Ham striker told Football Insider.