Rs have let in just one goal in last three Championship games after conceding 13 in first four

Joel Lynch believes hard work on the training pitch in recent weeks has allowed Queens Park Rangers to improve defensively in the Sky Bet Championship.

The Rs have tightened up in recent weeks, with Josh Magennis’ strike for Bolton Wanderers in a 2-1 away win for QPR on Saturday the only goal the west Londoners have conceded in their last three league matches.

That run compares favourably to the first four league games of the term for Steve McClaren’s men when they shipped 13 goals, including seven in a chastening loss at West Bromwich Albion.

And Lynch attributes the defensive improvements from the Loftus Road club to the graft that have put in during training.

“We’re disappointed to concede, but there’s been a lot of hard work on the training pitch defensively; it’s been relentless,” the Wales international told the club website.

“The international break can be a time when teams take breaks and players go off on mini-holidays, but we’ve really worked hard on the training pitch defensively.

“Every day, we’re improving and we’re a more solid team because of it.

“To concede just one goal in the last three league games is good and moving forward, that’s how we want to be.”

Throughout QPR’s recent defensive improvement, Lynch has partnered German Toni Leistner in the heart of the back four.

Leistner moved to west London from German second-tier side Union Berlin in the summer, and Lynch believes is developing a good understanding with his fellow centre-back.

“I get along really well with Toni. We have a great relationship and he’s a great lad. He’s settled in great and we have a good squad,” added the 30-year-old.

“As a pair, we’re definitely improving together; we’re learning each others’ game and talking a lot more on the pitch. I’ve told him I want him to scream at me all the time and get me in place. It keeps you switched on for the whole 90 minutes. Joe Lumley behind us is constantly talking and that keeps you on your toes. It’s a lot better when we’re all helping each other out.”