Rangers will be sweating as ‘pivotal’ star hit by injury ‘setback’ after Balogun update – Whelan
Noel Whelan has insisted a potential injury layoff for Leon Balogun will be an unwanted “headache” for Rangers manager Steven Gerrard.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 33-year-old is “pivotal” to the Ibrox club’s fortunes.
Speaking today ahead of Rangers’ trip to St Mirren on Sunday, Gerrard insisted the Nigerian defender is “not ruled out just yet” for the match – adding that the club will give him “every chance” of taking part.
Balogun starred in last night’s 2-0 Europa League over Brondby, rising highest in the 18th minute to nod home the opener.
However, in the second half, the former Wigan defender was forced off the pitch through injury and replaced by Calvin Bassey.
Whelan lauded Rangers’ performance but admitted his concern about potential disruption to their formidable rearguard.
“Gerrard was looking for a response from the weekend,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“It was a disappointing draw, after conceding in the 90thminute.
“He was looking for the perfect performance, and he got it – perfect result, clean sheet, two goals.
“But they’ve had a setback with a player who is pivotal to the team.
“Things haven’t been going as well as they could in the league, and it’s a key position – especially after Goldson has come back in after time out.
“They could now have to chop and change again and that’s a headache that Steven Gerrard will not want.
“They got a good result yesterday, but the injuries are mounting up so early in the season.”
Yesterday’s win was the Gers’ first in this season’s Europa League.
In the Scottish Premiership, Rangers lead the way with Hearts just one point off the pace.
In other news, pundit insists “outstanding” Steven Davis replacement has been located by Rangers.