Rangers boss Barry Ferguson shares Leon Balogun fitness update ahead of Athletic Bilbao clash

Rangers coach Barry Ferguson has revealed that Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun has been training well and should be available for their crucial game against Athletic Bilbao in the semifinal of the Europa League, Soccernet.ng reports.

Balogun has been in and out of action for the past two weeks. Last weekend, he missed the Gers' game against Aberdeen due to a slight knock, prompting fears that he could miss the crucial game against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

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Balogun put up a solid show when Bilbao visited the Ibrox last week as the game ended goalless. And his knock put a cloud over the Rangers' chances of winning the second leg. However, in a new development, coach Ferguson has revealed that the 36-year-old will likely play.

“Leon Balogun, Ridvan, Cerny and Rice all trained. Hopefully, they have no issues tomorrow morning, and we will be strong. We also have Souttar and Diomande back,” Ferguson said pre-match.

Balogun will have his hands full on Thursday due to Athletic Bilbao's dangerous forward line that has Nico Williams, Inaki Williams, Oihan Sancet, and Gorka Guruzeta. These players are very quick, so he has to be at the top of the game to avoid committing blunders that might cost his team.

Will Cyriel Dessers play for Rangers against Athletic Bilbao

With Leon Balogun almost sure to start against Athletic Bilbao, Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers will also hope he gets a chance to start for the Gers ahead of Hamza Igamane.

Dessers started from the bench when Rangers played Aberdeen last weekend. So that could be a sign that Ferguson was resting him from the game against Athletic Bilbao.

This game gives Dessers an opportunity to prove to Gers fans that he is a top player. He will look to get a goal or two to help his side against a Bilbao side that will have the backing of their fans at the Estadio San Mames.