Leon Balogun’s injury v Central Africa is another unwanted headache for Stevie G who is scraping the barrel for defensive resources to say the least.

The big Nigerian limped off in his latest injury issue, and this follows our praise of just how excellent he’s been for Rangers this season, with the caveat that we hoped he could stay injury free.

The former Werder Bremen star has a dreadful recent history of knocks, and while it’s not confirmed one way or the other whether he’ll be available this weekend, it’s certainly deeply unwanted in this time where Rangers’ defensive options are being stretched about as thin as they can.

After Connor Goldson’s recent injury and Covid absence, not to mention that contract situation, there are starting to be a few doubts about both his status and his fitness, and of course Filip Helander is out till around January, give or take.

Jack Simpson hasn’t impressed in that slot, and Niko Katic isn’t at the club.

So there’s really only Balogun left, and we don’t want to lose him too.

There is Bassey, but he was absolutely terrible in that position v Prague, so it’s not a slot he’s happy with, which we’re now aware officially that he isn’t (more on that later).

So, Rangers central options are really a bit up in the air, and we could use more stability there. Balogun being fit for the weekend would be a BIG boost alright and we hope he gets there.

Fingers crossed.