Steven Gerrard’s Rangers looking to extend Nigeria’s trio ahead of AFCON 2022

Rangers are reportedly negotiating an agreement with the Nigeria FA to extend the stay of Nigeria players in Rangers. Steven Gerrard’s side is looking to keep Joe Aribo, Leon Balogun, and Calvin Bassey for the Rangers clash against Celtic on the 2nd of January 2022. Due to FIFA’s mandate, all African players are expected to be released by their clubs on the 27th of December.

According to the Daily Record, the Scottish outfit will look to negotiate an extended stay for their Super Eagles stars.

The 2022 AFCON is expected to start from January 9th to February 6th with three Rangers stars expected to be in the squad. However, Ranger’s sporting director Ross Wilson is in discussion with the NFA to permit the players to stay until after the Celtic game. Ranger’s manager Steven Gerrard and Club’s Sporting Director have a good relationship with Gernot Rohr. This might give Rangers an advantage in the negotiation with the Nigerian FA

Balogun and Aribo have been crucial for the bears and they are desperate to have their key men against Celtic. However, Calvin Bassey got his first call-up for the National team in October 2021 and could make the final squad. There is no agreement between the Nigerian  FA and Rangers at the moment.

Nigeria is in Group D of the AFCON 2022 hosted by Cameroon. The three-time African Champions will play in the Same group with Egypt, Guinea-Bissau, and Sudan.
The Super Eagles will kick-start their tournament on the 11th of January 2022 against Egypt.