QPR have three Championship fixtures left to ensure their survival, beginning with Preston North End and then Leeds United.
QPR great Lee Cook has issued a serious warning to Preston North End and Leeds United ahead of their visits to Loftus Road over the next seven days.
The Rs are still in a relegation battle, sitting 19th in the table, three points above the drop zone. Marti Cifuentes needs points against Preston on Saturday and Leeds United in London next Friday.
Cook told his former club that he expects QPR to make it difficult for top-flight teams at home. The 41-year-old had four periods at QPR, two permanent and two on loan, during which he made 196 appearances.
Speaking about the task that Preston and Leeds face, Cook stated: “Any player that I’ve played against, when I’ve run into them, has always said how difficult it was coming here because of the closeness of the pitch and the supporters being on top of you.
“When it’s loud, it’s difficult to come here. Home has always been a difficult location for opponents to visit; they [the fans] undoubtedly contribute to this.”
QPR have been revived since Marti Cifuentes took over in October, and they appeared to have all but guaranteed Championship safety with two massive back-to-back victories over Birmingham City and Swansea City around Easter. However, setbacks to Sheffield Wednesday and Hull City have left the team still struggling.
Despite the club’s problems, there is a sense of optimism surrounding Cifuentes, who has won fans over since his arrival. Cook joined the chorus of praise for the Catalan coach.
He explained: “When he first came in, I had no idea who he was. Many folks didn’t. He startled us all in that way.
“He’s demonstrated that he is a competent coach who enjoys playing football. That has always been the QPR way; he has restored our reputation as a good football team. I’ve been quite impressed.
“Next season, we’ll be able to see where we stand with him once he’s put his imprint on it. You have to applaud him for what he has accomplished.
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