Fit-again Leon Balogun open to Super Eagles’ return

By Wale Mustapha

Nigerian defender Leon Balogun has confirmed his availability to make a return to the Super Eagles, after a 30-month absence from international duty.

Balogun, who last featured for Nigeria in June 2022 during the Super Eagles’ 10-0 victory over São Tomé and Príncipe in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, has not been called up since then due to injury and fitness concerns.

However, the 36-year-old defender, who plays for Glasgow Rangers, has found his best form this season, fueling speculation about his potential recall to the national team.

In an interview with Brila FM, Balogun addressed rumors surrounding his availability for the Super Eagles, emphasizing that he has always remained open to representing Nigeria.

“It’s not that I’ve not accepted an invitation. Unfortunately, right before the World Cup break, I suffered an injury that was supposed to last a few weeks but didn’t go the way it was supposed to. I just couldn’t come because I was not fit yet,” he explained.

He continued, “After I got fit, then I relapsed, but since then, I haven’t had a lengthy injury spell. I have always been available. I’ve never said that I retired from international football, and I think the people who need to know are aware that I’m still very much willing and ambitious to represent the national team.”

Balogun has earned 46 caps for Nigeria and scored once, and his resurgence in form has opened the door for a potential return to the Super Eagles as they continue their journey in international competitions.