Why Leon Balogun must play for Rangers 'all day long' as Barry Ferguson gives 5 reasons he's top choice

Barry Ferguson reckons Leon Balogun should be playing for Rangers all day long as he rhymed off five reasons he's the top pick.

Philippe Clement and his troops return to domestic action this weekend following defeat to Celtic at Parkhead before the international break. The Ibrox men lost out 3-0 to Brendan Rodgers' champions and could go into their game at Dundee United eight points behind both the Hoops and Aberdeen - who both play 24 hours against Hearts and Motherwell at home. Both have enjoyed flawless starts to the campaign while the Light Blues make a Sunday lunchtime trip to newly promoted Dundee United, who themselves are yet to taste defeat in four outings so far this campaign.

Speaking on Go Radio, pundit Peter Grant asked Record Sport columnist Ferguson first of all if Balogun was fit for action and secondly backed up the legendary Ibrox skipper about including him from the off at Tannadice and beyond as he talked up his leadership and experience. Fergie also admitted he would have him in his side every day of the week and says he would always be his first choice in the heart of the defence alongside one other. He opted to select John Souttar ahead of Robin Propper for this weekend.

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Peter Grant: "Is Balogun fit?"

Barry Ferguson: "He's been training. I would play Balogun all day long, all day long."

Peter Grant: "He gives that bit of leadership which is important. See when you go to tough places, you need somebody who is going to put the jacket on with you. It doesn't matter the performance with his legs but his experience can probably help you."

Barry Ferguson: "See in terms of Balogun. I just like him and the presence he brings. He's got good experience and does things really simple which I like from a centre-back. But do you know what he is there for? He goes and wins his headers, gets close to the No9 and for me when he is fit and available, I would always play him and it would be up to who would be beside him. If you are going on Sunday's game I would put him beside John Souttar."

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