Balogun: Important New Players Feel At Home

LEON BALOGUN says Rangers' trio of new signings have made a strong first impression in the dressing room.

Manager Philippe Clement added both Mohamed Diomande and Oscar Cortes to his squad earlier this week, with the duo becoming the second and third additions of the January transfer window following Fabio Silva's arrival on loan from Wolves.

Speaking to the media ahead of tomorrow's return to Ibrox in Scottish Premiership action, the Nigerian defender commented: "They're in the building and training. Fabio is the one who came first, so he's well integrated. 

"The other players are good boys from what I can say so far, but I only met them yesterday for the first time. 

"The natural thing is that you observe them at first, then you have your verdict. But from what I've witnessed, you just welcome them and make sure they understand what we're about, trying to achieve, and making their transition as easy as possible.

"The main thing is that we get those boys in line and understanding what we're trying to achieve.

"Another element is I was in their shoes myself coming to the UK five-and-a-half-years ago, so I identify with them. 

"I've always tried to be someone who makes people feel at home. I know what's it like because I've been on the road for the last 16 years, always away from home, so there's always an element of being homesick when you're younger. 

"It's important that you always make players feel welcome and give them a sense of being at home away from home."

Image
020224 Press Conference, Leon Balogun 01

The Gers will kick off a stretch of four home games in succession with the visit of Livingston tomorrow afternoon.

Balogun believes the fixture schedule will be the perfect introduction to life at Ibrox for the new arrivals, adding that he hopes to tap into his personal experience when it comes to helping the trio assimilate.

He added: "It's probably a good way to know what this club is about and what's expected, with four home games in a row. They're going to see the reality of it very soon.

"It's vital for anyone, wherever you play, that you feel welcome and comfortable; it makes it easier on the pitch. 

"Obviously it helped me that I've been here before and been quite successful as a team. It felt like coming back home, so I didn't need time to settle. 

"It was then just about making sure that it aligns with what I do on the pitch, and I think I've done okay so far."


  • SHOP: Shop the latest Rangers Store arrivals HERE

  • RANGERSTV: Get closer to your club with a RangersTV subscription HERE

  • MYGERS: Enjoy exclusive experiences, discounts and events with a MyGers membership HERE