By Dave McIntyre and Ben Kosky QPR are looking to sign a goalkeeper on loan – with former trialist Andy Marshall among the candidates under consideration. Marshall, who spent time at Loftus Road in the summer, is one of several keepers Rangers have shortl

By Dave McIntyre and Ben Kosky

QPR are looking to sign a goalkeeper on loan - with former trialist Andy Marshall among the candidates under consideration.

Marshall, who spent time at Loftus Road in the summer, is one of several keepers Rangers have shortlisted as possible short-term options following the departure of Tom Heaton.

Heaton returned to Manchester United last week following the end of his three-month loan spell at Rangers, and was immediately loaned to League Two promotion chasers Rochdale.

The Rs are interested in bringing him back to west London when the transfer window opens in January, either as a permanent signing or on loan for the remainder of the season.

But they need cover for first-choice stopper Radek Cerny during the interim period and were expected to contact Aston Villa about Marshall this week.

The 34-year-old was offered a one-year contract by QPR before the start of the season but instead agreed a move to Villa, where he has not made a first-team appearance.

Marshall is well known to Rangers manager Jim Magilton, having played alongside him at Ipswich for three seasons before moving on to Millwall and Coventry.

Several other goalkeepers have also been identified as potential signings should an approach for Marshall prove unsuccessful.

At least one loan signing is likely to be completed ahead of Saturday's game at Doncaster, with a midfielder also a priority following news that Gavin Mahon faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The former Watford man underwent a knee operation this week and will be out for an estimated four months, while striker Rowan Vine will miss the trip to the Keepmoat Stadium following a minor hernia operation.