‘Huge’ – QPR boss Beale fired up for Sheffield United test

BY KAI BENNETT

Michael Beale reckons that QPR’s game against Championship leaders Sheffield United tonight is “huge”.

The R’s beat Bristol City 2-1 at Ashton Gate on Saturday afternoon with their goals coming from Tyler Roberts and Stefan Johansen.

The Robins did pull one back just after the hour mark through former Hoops striker Nakhi Wells but Beale’s side held on for all three points.

Beale said: “There’s physical fatigue and there’s mental fatigue. In terms of physical fatigue – playing three games this week would see you run over 30k in six days and if you’re training too, you’re only adding to that.

“Do you change a winning team? We’ve had to do that through injury so far – but we’ll also change the team based on challenges ahead.

“Sheffield United is a huge game, so is Reading. We’ll need the squad and the strength in depth that we have in defence, for instance.

“We’ve also got the likes of Lyndon Dykes and Albert Adomah, who are desperate to play. You saw Luke Amos and Andre Dozzell coming on on Saturday – with a midfield three of Sam Field, Tim Iroegbunam and Stefan Johansen delivering away wins at Millwall and Bristol City.

“We’re in a good place and the only thing that can hurt us now is ourselves, and not doing all of the things that have got us into the place we’re now in.”

Beale had a positive injury update ahead of the trip to Yorkshire.

He added: “We’re able to welcome Rob Dickie back into the squad. I’m delighted we’re now in a good place with injuries – even though you’re mindful that there’s always something around the corner.

“Jake Clarke-Salter and Kenneth Paal have recovered from the knocks they picked up at Bristol City at the weekend. Taylor Richards is back in training on Thursday. He’ll be in contention for Luton.”