QPR defender staying after Championship club triggers extension option

Steve Cook has seen an extension clause triggered in his contract to keep him at QPR next season.

The centre-back has made 69 appearances for the Rs since signing from Nottingham Forest in 2023 and became captain after the departure of Asmir Begovic in August last year.

Cook scored twice as he led the club to a 15th place finish in the Championship this campaign.

“I love playing for QPR,” Cook told the club’s official media. “Especially at Loftus Road with the atmosphere.

“It has been a roller coaster but I have loved every minute I have been at the club and I am delighted to be able to stay here.

“I think I have still got a lot to offer, on and off the pitch. I have grown as a person at the club, trying to help out around the place with a lot of the younger players as well.

“I am still hungry to play football. I feel like I can contribute and I am excited to see what happens next season. I am really excited to see where we can get to.”

Cook boasts more than 200 Championship appearances and 180 Premier League appearances, most of which coming during his decade-long spell at AFC Bournemouth.

He said: “A few young lads have played a lot of minutes this year to give everyone at the club real hope and real excitement for next season.

“We’ve got a fantastic fanbase here. They have played a huge part in the club being where it is at right now because it has been difficult, and the part they have to play now is huge again. We need to stick together.

“If we can bring everything together, it could be a very enjoyable season next year.”

Cook’s season with the club was marred by an ongoing foot injury that sidelined him for 14 games, including leaving him unavailable for the last eight games of the season.

QPR chief executive Christian Nourry said: “Steve’s savviness and know-how were vital to the club securing its Championship status in the 2023-24 campaign – while his wealth of experience further helped the playing group in 2024-25 during the more difficult moments of the season.

“Although Steve’s campaign was curtailed by his plantar fasciitis, which he continues to recover from, we are pleased to have the opportunity to work together in 2025-26.”

PICTURE: ROB AVIS