Leon Balogun in emotional Rangers goodbye statement as he admits he's learned one big lesson from Ibrox fans

Balogun has thanked fans for an "unforgettable" two years at Ibrox.

Emotional Leon Balogun has penned a lengthy goodbye as he departs Rangers for pastures new.

The experienced defender walks away from Ibrox on a high after lifting the Scottish Cup in his final game against Hearts.

He made 65 appearances over two seasons at Rangers after joining from Wigan.

The 33-year-old insisted he wanted to stay but with John Souttar arriving, the club confirmed earlier this month he will leave on a free.

And in an emotional social media post he said: "Took me some time, but eventually it is time for me to say goodbye.

"Thank you to every single soul at the club working their socks of, making sure me and the boys can focus on performing at our best. A lot of whom we work with on a daily basis: kitchen staff, medical staff, sports scientists and athletic trainers, as well as our two girls Katy and Hannah.

"You have shown and taught me -in your very own way- the dedication that is expected and I thank you for that.

"Thank you to the managing staff and especially to my amazing team mates over the 2 seasons, who welcomed me from day one as a player and a friend. Who have pushed me to be better and taught me the Rangers way. A lot of highs, a few lows that made our bond even stronger.

"We became invincible champions, the class of 55...those magical European nights at Ibrox that led us all the way to the final. And eventually we crowned my time at the club with the Scottish cup.

"Thanks for all the memories, the laughter and for sharing some of the best moments in my career with me.

"And last but not least, a massive thank you to you, the supporters. You are one crazy, passionate bunch. High expectations, that can be intimidating at times - but I loved every single second of it.

"All your messages over the past 2 weeks have been incredibly overwhelming for me and at the same time they’re the greatest testimonial I can get for my time at Rangers. It has been an absolute privilege and honour to represent you near and far.

"One of the most frequent questions I’ve been asked in my time at Rangers was if I understand the size of the club and what it means - thanks to you, I do now. "We are the people and you are my people - Forever Blue."