Neil Critchley was full of praise for new signing Chris Martin ahead of QPR’s match against Millwall at Loftus Road this weekend.
The former Derby striker was brought on after an injury to Lyndon Dykes in the Hoops’ 1-1 draw against Huddersfield.
And boss Critchley was optimistic about the impact the new man could have.
“I think Chris Martin is a fantastic addition to the squad," he said.
“He’s already proven his quality this week in training and I think he’ll play a big part for us between now and the end of the season.
↪️ Mart𝗜𝗡 for the run-in.
— QPR FC (@QPR) February 6, 2023
Welcome, @ChrissyMartin9_! 🙌#QPR | #MartIN
“At 34 years of age, he’s in good condition, he’s a proper professional, been in numerous dressing rooms, had numerous different experiences, and he can share those with the players.”
Critchley will be hoping that Martin can make an immediate impact, with his side sat 14th in the league having failed to win any of their last eight matches.
“We’ve been very close to picking up three points on a number of occasions recently," said Critchley.
“We’re at home and it’s our responsibility to try to improve our results here because our supporters haven’t seen us win at home for a while.
“That has been frustrating for us all and it’s important we get that winning feeling back as soon as possible.
“We’ve just got to keep focusing on improvement as a group and accept responsibility for our performances.
“The players can take heart from the victory at Millwall earlier in the season - but, come Saturday, that counts for nothing.”
The return to fitness of Tyler Roberts is a welcome boost for Critchley ahead of Millwall's trip across London this weekend.
Despite sitting in eight place, the Lions have won just one of their last four, though Critchley insists it will be a challenging contest.
“We know it’s a tough task in front of us, but we have to embrace it and make sure we give everything on the pitch on Saturday," said Critchley.
“Gary Rowett has built a good squad and there is a clear identity to how they play – they get the ball forward early, they put the ball in your box and they make you defend.
“You have to match them all over the pitch and you have to impose your game on them."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here