Charlie Austin admits he is puzzled by criticism of fellow striker Bobby Zamora, and insists the one-time England man remains a valuable asset for QPR, writes Ian Cooper.

Zamora has been the focus of frustration from sections of the fan-base, having failed to score in any of his five appearances in league and cup so far this season.

The former West Ham and Fulham forward (pictured, right) missed much of the last campaign following surgery for a hip injury, and has produced several laboured displays this season.

However, Austin believes Zamora should not be judged solely on his record in front of goal: “There is more to a striker’s game than goals,” said Austin. “Of course that’s what he will be judged on, but there is a lot more to his game than that.

“Goals are a massive boost for a centre-forward and you want to score every time you go on the pitch, but sometimes that doesn’t happen and you have to do a different job for the team.

“He’s a target man, he’s good in the air and he holds the ball up.

“I don’t understand the criticism. Whenever I have played with him we have linked up well and played well. We’re playing well and we have been unbeaten.

“Whatever has happened before is in the past. It is a fresh season now and a fresh start for everyone.”