Rs boss came through the ranks, and later managed, at the the Robins cross-town rivals Bristol Rovers

Brent & Kilburn Times: Queens Park Rangers midfielder David Wheeler, seen here in action for Exeter City, is set for a spell on the sidelines (pic: Mike Egerton/PA)Queens Park Rangers midfielder David Wheeler, seen here in action for Exeter City, is set for a spell on the sidelines (pic: Mike Egerton/PA) (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

Ian Holloway takes Queens Park Rangers back to his home town on Saturday, looking to get the better of Bristol City in the Championship.

The 54-year-old grew up on the outskirts of city, but came through the ranks at the Robins’ fierce rivals Bristol Rovers.

As a Gashead, the QPR boss will be desperate to get one over City, but will have to do so without David Wheeler.

Holloway revealed the midfielder, a summer signing from Exeter City, is set for a spell on the sidelines and the Rs manager said he was disappointed for the 27-year-old.

“David needs an operation. We’ve had some bad news about him. There’s a little bit of bone that’s chipped off and it’s causing terrible trouble in his joint,” said Holloway.

“We have to open that up and take it out, which is terrible news for him and for us.”

Holloway has also had to contend with speculation in recent weeks linking Pawel Wszolek with a move back to his native Poland.

The 25-year-old has not appeared for the Rs in the league since December 29 and, with a World Cup to come this summer, could be worried about his place in the national team.

Holloway addressed the speculation regarding Wsozlek after last Saturday’s 3-0 loss at home to Middlesbrough, and also offered a simple explanation as to why he has not featured recently.

“If people are talking about Pawel and seen that he’s not in the team, he’s not in the team because ‘Furs’ (Darnell Furlong) did brilliantly at Burton Albion the week before,” added the Rs boss.

“There will be all sorts of speculation about everybody and Pawel is a very good player.

“We’re trying to build a squad and a team and he’s concerned about playing for Poland if he isn’t playing for his club.

“He’s a wonderful kid and he hasn’t moaned. I might have to play him against Bristol City, so I’m not bothered about the speculation.

“It would be nice if people wanted our players because they’re good players and I’m sure that will be the case.”

QPR last played Bristol City as recently as December 23, when the sides played out a 1-1 draw at Loftus Road.

Holloway will hope his team can go one better this weekend by claiming what would be a vital three points at Ashton Gate.