Rowlands the latest casulty ahead of derby clash

With news that Martin Rowlands could be injured ahead of the derby clash against his old team Brentford on Tuesday night, Rangers’ injury crisis deepens and manager Ian Holloway has some serious selection headaches ahead of the game.

After losing away at Grimsby 1-0 in the FA Cup 1^st round on Saturday, QPR fielded a team which included teenagers on the subs bench and players playing well out of their usual positions.

Richard Edghill, Gino Padula, Marc Bircham, Warren Barton, Danny Shittu, Matthew Rose, Nick Culkin and Paul Furlong are all almost definite absentees while now Rowlands, Marcus Bean and Kevin Gallen could join them.

Holloway is looking into the loan market as possible signings to ease the pressure but it is sure to test the strength of the squad to the limit.

16 year olds John Fletcher who was on the bench for the Grimsby game and Ryan Johnson should also take their places among the squad again.

Brentford won 7-1 at home to Gainsborough in their cup game on Saturday to progress to the second round with an away tie at Telford United.

The Bees’ captain Michael Dobson missed the game through illness as Wally Downes’ men cruised to victory.

Brentford haven’t scored at Loftus Road in two recent encounters and the R’s hold the upper hand. Let’s hope it stays that way.