Leon Balogun is determined to overturn his manager’s harsh yet justified critique as Rangers grapple with a historic slump in form.
Following a devastating 2-1 loss to Motherwell, Rangers have now suffered three consecutive home defeats for the first time since 2012. The pressure mounts as they prepare to host Fenerbahce in the Europa League’s last 16, risking an unprecedented fourth straight loss at Ibrox. Interim manager Barry Ferguson faces a daunting task, first leading the team to Istanbul for Thursday’s first-leg clash against José Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.
Balogun, returning from a five-week injury, acknowledged the squad’s dire performance but sees the European fixture as a chance to reset. “Thursday presents a major opportunity,” he stated. “Playing away first might actually ease the pressure after our domestic struggles. But we must improve drastically from the Motherwell match to stand a chance. These back-to-back European games could reignite the fans’ support—if we deliver.”
The defender didn’t shy from blunt self-assessment: “The result speaks for itself. This isn’t Rangers’ standard, and it’s unacceptable. Yes, we created chances in the second half, but ‘almost’ isn’t enough. Mistakes happen, but at a club like this, accountability is non-negotiable. We’ve overcome slumps before—it’s about resetting our standards.”
Ferguson issued a stark warning: replicating Saturday’s disjointed display against European heavyweights Fenerbahce or Celtic in the upcoming Old Firm derby would spell disaster. Balogun echoed the urgency: “Confidence is low, but we must push harder. The inconsistency stems from not holding ourselves accountable. Now’s the time to fight back.”
As Rangers brace for a pivotal week, the squad’s resolve will be tested both abroad and at home, with pride and progress on the line.
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