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Despite the difficulty of the challenge the R’s will know a win will see them leapfrog the Geordies and head back into the Play-Off positions.
Following their relegation from the Premier League last season, Rafa Benitez’s side had a poor start to the season suffering back-to-back defeats to Fulham and Huddersfield. However they have won their last four league games and their performances are starting to mirror a side that was the clear bookies favourites for promotion at the start of the campaign.
The rebuilding process on Tyneside was boosted by former Liverpool and Real Madrid Manager Rafa Benitez’s decision to sign a long-term contract over the summer. This was followed by some high profile signings from the Premier League including Mohammed Diame, Matt Richie and top goal scorer Dwight Gayle.
Despite dropping down a division the Geordies can always rely on the extremely loyal ‘Toon Army’ to show their support with the away end expected to be sold out this evening, which should make for a fantastic atmosphere in W12.
Regardless of the talent they possess going forward, Rafa Benitez prides his teams on being well drilled and defensively strong with a balance of power and finesse in midfield.
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TEAM NEWS
QPR: Pawel Wszolek is available for the first time after serving a carried over one match ban with Hellas Verona. Striker Sebastian Polter (glute) is an injury doubt whilst Massimo Luongo is still suffering with illness and could also miss out. Yeni Ngbakoto is available again following a family bereavement whilst defender Joel Lynch has recovered from an abdomen injury and is available for selection.
Newcastle: Rob Elliot and Rolando Aarons remain side-lined, while Massadio Haidara is nearing match fitness but won’t feature at Loftus Road. Christian Atsu and Daryl Murphy - who didn’t travel to Derby – could make their debuts as could Achraf Lazaar.
Predicted line up: (4-5-1) Sels, Anita, Lascelles, Mbemba, Dummett, Ritchie, Colback, Shelvey, Goufrann, Diame, Gayle
Key Player: Mohammed Diame – The combative midfielder is known for his powerful bursts into the box and is capable of the spectacular from 30 yards out.
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QPR Starting Xl ?
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MATCH ODDS
QPR win: 13/5
Draw: 9/4
Newcastle: 11/10
QPR first goal scorer: Tjaronn Chery 11/2
Newcastle first goal scorer: Dwight Gayle 4/1
LAST TIME OUT
2-1 Premier League - Saturday 16th May 2015
QPR scorers: Phillips, Fer
Newcastle scorers: Riviere
HEAD TO HEAD
(In all competitions)
QPR wins: 17
Draws: 8
Newcastle wins: 23
MATCH OFFICIALS
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Referee: Andy Davies
Assistant Referees: Daniel Leach and Dan Cook
Fourth official: Oliver Langford
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