QPR have three fixtures left in the Championship season to confirm their survival, starting with Preston North End then Leeds United.
In advance of their visits to Loftus Road over the next seven days, Preston North End and Leeds United have received a stern warning from QPR legend Lee Cook.
The Rs are currently three points above the relegation zone in 19th place in the table, deep in the midst of a relegation struggle. When Leeds United visits London on Friday and plays Preston on Saturday, Marti Cifuentes needs points.
Speaking to his old team, Cook supported QPR’s ability to challenge those top-half teams at home. The 41-year-old made 196 appearances during his four stints at QPR—two of which were permanent and the other two were on loan.
Cook discussed the challenge that lies ahead for Preston and Leeds, saying: “Every player I’ve faced in the past has always told me how tough it was to come here because of the small pitch and the intense crowds.
“This is a challenging place to visit when it’s noisy. The fans certainly contribute to the tough environment that the opposition has always had to contend with here at home.”
After Marti Cifuentes took over in October of last year, QPR appeared to have virtually guaranteed their place in the Championship after two decisive victories over Swansea City and Birmingham City around Easter. But then came losses to Hull City and Sheffield Wednesday, which has kept the team fighting.
Despite the club’s situation, Cifuentes has gained supporters since his arrival, so things are still positive around him. Cook joined the chorus of praise for the Catalan head coach.
He said: “I wasn’t really sure who he was when he first came in. Many others chose not to. That’s how he surprised us all.
He’s demonstrated that he enjoys playing football and is a good coach. That has always been the QPR way; he has restored our reputation as a respectable football team. I’m really impressed.
“Once he puts his stamp on it, we’ll be able to see where we will be with him in the upcoming season. You have to give him credit for what he accomplished.”
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