Local bragging rights are up for grabs this evening as the R’s lock horns with west London neighbours Fulham at Loftus Road.
Luke Freeman rescued a point for Rangers midweek in the draw up at Barnsley with a corker of a shot but it was Caulker who really impressed.
The former Liverpool defender of Brobdingnagian proportions returned to the starting line-up and showed true class in the middle of the QPR defence.
Something that is needed with the long-term absence of Nedum Onuoha who is unlikely to get off the treatment table until after the New Year not to mention Grant Hall and James Perch who also remain sidelined.
Rangers’ renewed steeliness is a new facet to Holloway’s side that was missing last season and has seen them remain unbeaten at home however the draw at Barnsley was only the second point the R’s have earned on the road this season which is a concern.
Fortunately, the Hoops are at home tonight and Smith could start up front against his old team after the heavy shift that Jamie Mackie put in at Oakwell.
Holloway has the luxury of a bench overflowing with top quality options. On Tuesday night, he was able to call upon Connor Washington, Matt Smith and Kazenga LuaLua in the second half and the changes made a difference as QPR dominated proceedings.
Meanwhile, it seems Fulham FC owner Shahid Khan has been keeping a close eye on his neighbours QPR as he confirmed that he was unwilling to splash the cash on the Whites in a push for Premier League promotion to merely get relegated the following season. Strong, solid foundations are needed and wanted. The same could be said of the Hoops.
