By Our Reporter
Scottish outfit, Rangers FC is about to devise a way that will favor the Gers hundred percent yet short-change the Nigeria national team as they prepare to conquer Africa at the 2021 African Cup of Nations.
According to the Daily Record (via Mailsport), Rangers are seeking permission for the Nigeria trio of Leon Balogun, Joe Aribo, and Calvin Bassey to report for international duty after the game against Celtic.
FIFA rules stipulate that Rangers have to release their international stars on 27 December which simply means they would miss the match against Celtic on January 2, 2021.
Words from former Celtic forward, Frank McAvennie who spoke exclusively to Football Insider, claims the Gers are asking for “special treatment” and may elect to send one of the three stars in a bid to strike a deal with Nigeria Football Federation.
“They are asking for special treatment,” McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“I completely understand that. You want your best players available for the biggest games. I think they could strike a deal in January, maybe they will send them Bassey if they can keep Aribo and Balogun.”
“That’s to take nothing away from Bassey. I just don’t think they will need him in the Old Firm. Aribo is the main man at the moment so they will be very keen to keep him in.
“The only thing I would say is Rangers are overflowing with talent in that midfield. That isn’t the problem, the center-back area is a bit of an issue. I get why they are trying to do it but even if those players are missing I don’t think they are too much worse off.”
