Leon Balogun reveals his role in Cyriel Dessers move to Rangers

Super Eagles defender, Leon Balogun has revealed how he urged his Nigeria teammate Cyriel Dessers to join Scottish giants, Rangers.

Following his return from a spell at QPR, Balogun’s presence at the Scottish Premiership club played a significant role in persuading Dessers to join the exciting journey at Rangers.

Balogun’s heroics during his previous spell at Ibrox have earned him a special place in the hearts of Rangers’ fans, and now, he is eager to combine forces with Dessers in their quest for silverware.

Rangers have not won the Scottish Premiership title for the last two seasons and Dessers will be tasked with replacing Alfredo Morelos in Michael Beales’s attack along with his countryman.

“The funny thing is that the same night my agent texted me [to tell me about Rangers’ interest], I actually text the manager to say congratulations on signing Cyriel,” Balogun revealed.

“I had only met him at the national team maybe three or four times. But I always felt he was a very intelligent striker. He’s a very laid-back, friendly and approachable guy. But on the pitch, he’s a pest.

“Honestly, I was surprised. He’s pretty strong. I remember I had a conversation with Soutts [John Souttar] the other day and asked what he thought of him. He said: “Oh my god, he’s so strong”.

“You don’t really expect that. He’s good in front of the goal as well and I think we’re going to get a lot of joy out of him. He just needs to get up and running. But once he finds his confidence and finds his place in the team properly, I think we’re going to have a lot of joy.”

Dessers owed a debt of gratitude to Balogun, for his crucial involvement in sealing the deal that brought him to Ibrox this summer.

“He basically just asked me what the club is like. He knew a little bit but wanted to know what my experience was like. I told him that for me personally, I had the best time of my career here.

“I told him they expect a lot, especially the supporters, but that just comes with the size of the club.

“He said, ‘I know it’s a big club…’ But I said, ‘No you don’t!’ I thought I had an idea when I came first time, but everyone said you’ll only understand how big it is once you get here. That’s what I told Cyriel too.”