Rs start their cup quest at home to Dons on Saturday

Brent & Kilburn Times: Luke Freeman of Queens Park Rangers holds off Cardiff City defender Callum Paterson (pic: John Walton/PA)Luke Freeman of Queens Park Rangers holds off Cardiff City defender Callum Paterson (pic: John Walton/PA) (Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

Queens Park Rangers begin their FA Cup campaign in earnest on Saturday when they entertain League One outfit MK Dons in the third round.

Ian Holloway’s men will hope to build on a fine New Year’s Day success at home to Cardiff City in the Championship when they host the Dons this weekend.

Against the Bluebirds, the QPR fans were treated to a tremendous debut from young forward Paul Smyth, who scored the winner.

The west Londoners could see another youngster handed a chance this weekend after Ebere Eze returned from a loan spell at Wycombe Wanderers.

The 20-year-old netted five goals in 20 League Two appearances for the Chairboys, who are managed by former QPR winger Gareth Ainsworth, who previously had two spells as caretaker boss of the west Londoners.

With Holloway expected to name a much-changed side for the cup clash this weekend, Eze could be given a chance to shine.

And the Rs manager is looking forward to the prospect of working with the talented youngster over the course of the rest of the season.

“Ebere is going to be back in my squad, so I have to try to clear a few situations up so I can add him to the group,” said the 54-year-old.

“I’m not letting him go back to Wycombe because he has been outstanding, particularly given the way we played against Cardiff with two number 10s.

“That is something that would affect us, so I have to try to plan for that. With the talent we have, two numbers 10s floating in and around the box would be great.”

While Eze has returned to QPR this month, with the transfer window now open, there could be some players leaving W12 for good.

Even before the window opened, the Loftus Road club released Steven Caulker early from his contract.

Yeni N’Gbakoto has also left, joining French club Guingamp on Wednesday, while Conor Washington could be another to head out of the exit door this month.

It could be a busy January for the Rs as Holloway continues to reshape his squad, and the boss knows there will have to be some outgoings.

“We have far too many players. I’ve signed a few and have been trying to work with them in the background, but we have to try to move forward,” he added.