QPR extend striker’s contract

BY MAX HALL

Queens Park Rangers have extended the stay of last season’s top-scorer Michael Frey, despite the managerial uncertainty at the club.

The Hoops placed Spanish head coach Marti Cifuentes on gardening leave at the end of April, with assistant coaches Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm taking the team for the last game of the Championship season at home to Sunderland.

The off-field uncertainty has not prevented the board extending the contract of 30-year-old Swiss forward Frey.

While the former Royal Antwerp striker scored only one goal at Loftus Road last season, after arriving during the January transfer window, Frey added 10 goals in all competitions in the most recent campaign.

Rangers finished the season 15th, seven points above the relegation zone.

Announcing the contract extension, for a forward who has played top flight football in Germany, France, Turkey, Belgium and his homeland, Hoops chief executive Christian Nourry said: “Michi has demonstrated this season that he is more than a handful for Championship defences.

“Eighteen months into his time at QPR, we have watched him settle into London and this league. He is a player with immense determination and an infectious drive, and we appreciate all his efforts so far.”

PICTURE: ROB AVIS