Vital Reading season preview
Club: Queens Park Rangers
Founded: 1882
Nickname: The Hoops
Ground: Loftus Road (Capacity: 18,360)
When we face off: Sat 9th November (H), Sat 15th February (A)
Last season finish: 20th – Premier League (Relegated)
Manager: Harry Redknapp – I have to admit, I’m surprised he is still manager of QPR – not just because of the relegation, but his public frustration of not being able to get some of his signings. Despite this, Harry still being manager will be a major benefit to Rangers. He may be in his final years in management, but still has the hunger to have a go at the Premier League one more time.
Key player: Richard Dunne – Obviously the likes of Taarabt and Remy are going to be massive players for Rangers this year, but I feel this man could really make the difference this season in their fortunes. The Republic of Ireland international was released by Aston Villa in the summer, after injury meant he could play no part in the 2012/13 season. Despite this setback, Dunne is now fighting fit and his experience will prove pivotal to Rangers’ promotion push. Dunne could have easily still played in the Premier League at 33 years of age.
Season Preview – I’m in two minds about QPR as we approach the season’s start. One side is saying that they could easily walk the league with the squad they have. The other side is saying that their top quality players could lack the motivation, not click and it could all go downhill from there. Having Redknapp as manager is a major plus, but I would still expect some of their big names to leave in August and January. I can still QPR finishing in the top six either way though.
