CLINT Hill believes the return of Wayne Routledge will reinforce QPR’s promotion charge following the winger’s impressive debut against Coventry.

Routledge rejoined Rangers on loan from Newcastle last week, almost exactly a year after his �1.25m move to St James’ Park, and netted the decisive goal in Sunday’s 2-1 success over the Sky Blues.

Left-back Hill, who has often come into direct opposition with Routledge during his career, told the Times: “I’d rather have him on my team than playing against him. You always knew you were in for a tough game against him – he’s lively, quick and a quality finisher, so it’s great to have him on board.

“If the club can continue to bring in players of that calibre, that’s got to be good. Promotion’s what we’re trying to aim for and you need that competition to help the squad.”

Rangers head to Hull on Saturday with the chance to extend their five-point advantage at the top – only Norwich, among the chasing pack, are also in Championship action.

The KC Stadium fixture, postponed on its original December date due to the freezing weather conditions, was rescheduled for this weekend as both sides are already out of the FA Cup.

But the Rs’ task appears a more awkward one than it did eight weeks ago – Nigel Pearson’s side have lost just one of their last 12 games and now lie 12th in the table, just six points short of a play-off spot.

“When we were going to play Hull they were struggling a bit, but they’re flying at the moment,” Hill added. “Nigel’s done a great job there, he’s a good manager and he’s got his team playing well.

“It looks another dangerous game and hopefully we can go there and get a result.

“It’s important that we win our home games, but also that we keep nicking points away from home.”