Leon Balogun posts emotional Rangers exit address as heartbroken star reveals sadness at being denied proper farewell

The Nigerian international has confirmed his second stint at Ibrox is coming to an end

Leon Balogun has revealed he will be leaving Rangers at the end of the month - just days after expressing his desire to expressing a desire to sign on for another year at Ibrox.

The 37-year-old was brought back to Gers by Michael Beale in the summer of 2023 after one season with Queens Park Rangers down south, which was preceded by his first two year stint in Govan.

Despite his team's woeful domestic campaign, the veteran defender - part of Steven Gerrard's Premiership winning side in the 2020/21 campaign - is one of the few players who can come away with a degree of credit, although injuries have restricted him to 23 appearances in all competitions.

With his contract up on May 31, Balogun had hinted that he would be more than happy to commit his future at Ibrox where a new deal by incoming owners 49ers Enterprises put on the table.

But to the Nigeria international's surprise, his 10 minute cameo in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Hibs at Easter Road where he limped off with an injury in the first half will be the last time he ever pulls on the Light Blue jersey.

In an emotional statement shared on social media confirming his departure, he said: "It's that time again. No caption could summarise all that is going through my mind as I'm writing these lines.

"It's been nothing short of an honour, a pleasure and a great, great privilege to represent this massive club - twice!

"So many memories, good ones as well as a few tough ones. But it's the latter especially that made my love for the club grow even stronger.

"The moments when we all stuck together and went again - no matter the disappointment or frustration. In these moments the club revealed what makes it most special: YOU.

"The people supporting us week in week out, near and far, demanding, expecting, pushing us to do better and go for glory.

"The people working for the club behind the scenes, meeting us with a smile everyday, doing their absolute best to contribute to the success of the club in their own way. You're the heartbeat of the club and it's been an honour to represent you!

"If I would have known that the last 2 games of the season were my last for the club I would have made sure to say goodbye to all of you accordingly.

"Unfortunately I wasn't afforded that opportunity which saddens me as I would have liked to have walked round Ibrox one last time and returned all the love and support you've given me during my 2 stints.

"I don't know when I'll be back, but I promise I won't be a stranger. Thank you for making me feel at home and appreciated wherever we met.

"You've become more than just my club, you've become family. And for that I will be forever grateful."