WHEN I was offered the opportunity to write for the Times I grabbed it – and from now until the end of the season, I hope to give the readers my objective opinion on the latest news at QPR, ranging from performances to tactics and football issues in gener

WHEN I was offered the opportunity to write for the Times I grabbed it - and from now until the end of the season, I hope to give the readers my objective opinion on the latest news at QPR, ranging from performances to tactics and football issues in general.

First off, I would like to say how happy I am that QPR seem to be on the rise. The recent financial backing of the team seems to have given them a boost.

With an impressive home record, the only thing missing is points on the road but, with 17 games to go, the Hoops are in a good position to push for the play-offs.

Downsides so far would have to be the long-term injuries to Akos Buzsaky and Martin Rowlands - who, by all accounts, was playing some of the best football of his career. Many other players I have spoken to describe him as one of the best midfielders in the Championship.

With the recruitment of many new players over the past 12 months, the all-important time needed to gel could be against the Rs, who require more consistency away from home to mount a final assault on all the play-off hopefuls.

There are obstacles in place but, as a QPR supporter, I sincerely hope we can glide smoothly over them and give the faithful fans a long-awaited return to the Premier League.

On the bright side, the return of Rowan Vine could be ideal to give the front line more strength in depth as they prepare for the final push. I spoke to Rowan this week and he seems to be a few weeks away from a full recovery - which will be music to the ears of all the Loftus Road faithful.

This is coupled with the fact that Paulo Sousa, who was a fantastic player in his day - and a player I looked up to - seems to be imposing his theories on the way football should be played.

I know that this will be appreciated by the fans, who over the years have been spoilt with the likes of Ray Wilkins, Gerry Francis and Stan Bowles.

The next few weeks are crucial to the campaign and I sincerely hope the Rs can secure a top six finish.

Come on you Rs!