QPR v Forest: five key battles

QPR could move to the top of the Championship on Saturday if they beat Nottingham Forest at Loftus Road. Here are five battles we think might be crucial to their chances of extending their winning run.

Karl Henry v Henri Lansbury
Lansbury, who was tipped to leave Forest during the recent transfer window, has been in excellent form this season. He is capable of dominating the midfield and can be a real danger if given time and space. Henry will have an important job to do.

Charlie Austin v Matt Mills
Mills has settled in well following his summer move from Bolton, while Austin has scored four goals already this season and is now free of speculation over his future. The Forest defender could have his hands full.

Matty Phillips v Daniel Pinillos
Cutting the supply to Austin will be a priority for the visitors and much of that will come from Phillips on the right flank. Left-back has been a problem area for Forest and a potential weak point Rangers might be able to exploit.

Tjaronn Chery or Massimo Luongo v Michael Mancienne
Mancienne is well known to QPR fans, having spent the best part of two seasons on loan at Loftus Road earlier in his career. These days he often operates in a defensive midfield role and against Rangers that position is crucial, with Chery and Luongo either playing just off the front or drifting in from the left.

Chris Ramsey v Dougie Freedman
The two managers’ contrasting styles mean this could develop into a tactical battle. Ramsey’s QPR side is very much a work in progress as he seeks to change their style of play to a more dynamic one, while Forest boss Freedman places much emphasis on shape and defensive solidity. Ramsey is on a roll after three wins in a row, but this match provides a different kind of test.