Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has heaped praises on Rangers of Scotland duo of Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo, saying he hopes to see them win the Scottish Premiership this season.
The Gers narrowly missed out on the league title to Celtic last season. But, it looks like Steven Gerrard’s men are now in pole position to land the coveted trophy having opened a 15-point lead at the top of the table.
The Ibrox side are currently enjoying a superb season with a place in Europe after they advanced to the Europa League round of 16.
“It would be great for our players – Balogun and Aribo – if Rangers won the title,” Rohr said of the Nigerians, who have both played a vital role in the Gers’ success so far this campaign.
“I have known Balogun for a very long time. He has a German mentality and has good speed which is very important for a central defender or full-back as he can play both positions.
“There is no difference for Leon Balogun playing at right-back for Rangers just now because he’s played there before, for Nigeria and in Germany sometimes.
“He’s quick and intelligent and can change his position very quickly. For me, he’s strong enough to play either position. In the 2018 World Cup, he played at the right of a three-man central defence so is not quite a right back.
“I watched him playing in Germany for Mainz before I joined the Nigerian national team so I knew all about the boy. He was born in Germany and speaks German so we have a good relationship.
“Leon has a very good character and self-confidence and I was happy when he moved to Glasgow Rangers because he didn’t play enough in England.
“Leon is one of the leaders in my group and I’m happy he has had success in European competition with Rangers. He is also one of my vice-captains, we have a young team in Nigeria and he is an experienced player which is vital.
“I’m very satisfied with Leon and Joe, particularly with the attitude of them both.”
Aribo has six games under his belt for the Nigeria national team since his debut against Ukraine in 2019.
Rohr has highlighted some of the qualities of the 24-year-old and praised him for his contribution to the Super Eagles.
“Since I invited Joe Aribo to the squad we have had only good performances. He was, for us, an important player in the midfield with his left foot, mobility, commitment and fantastic mentality,” he continued.
“He can play as a defensive or offensive midfielder. Joe is good at pressing and immediately struck up a wonderful relationship with Alex Iwobi. “
“Joe scored in his first game for Nigeria against Ukraine in September 2019 and was one of the best players so we’re happy to see him in full flow and fitness for Rangers.”
Balogun and Aribo will be expected to file out for Rangers when they take on Livingston in their next league game on Wednesday.
