QPR made a solid start to life under Harry Redknapp, picking up only their second clean sheet in the league this season. Here’s how we rated Rangers’ players in their goalless draw at Sunderland.
Julio Cesar: 7
Produced an important save to deny Steven Fletcher before being substituted at half-time because of a groin injury.
Jose Bosingwa: 6
Started like a man who meant business under the new manager but then faded. Lack of focus summed up by an attempt to discuss a disputed throw-in decision with Sunderland boss Martin O’Neill as the game continued.
Ryan Nelsen: 6
Trustworthy.
Clint Hill: 6
Stuck to his task well.
Armand Traore: 7
Did well on the left. Skilful and injury prone, so can give the impression he lacks heart. He doesn’t. The team needed to put in a battling performance and he wasn’t found wanting.
Stephane Mbia: 8
Very good in front of the back four. Quick, strong and, barring the odd mishap, decent on the ball too. Excellent judgement call by Redknapp to play him in that role. Rangers’ most reliable centre-backs attack the ball well but lack pace, so the way to play to their strengths and cover their weaknesses is to put a strong, mobile defensive midfielder in front of them. It works. Just ask John Terry.
Samba Diakite: 7
Reckless at times and picked up another daft booking. His potential was noted by Redknapp though.
Esteban Granero: 7
A ‘gut-check’ for the former Real Madrid man, which he passed with flying colours. Battled in tough conditions, never failing to track runners or fill in space. And was excellent on the ball.
Jamie Mackie: 6
Missed a decent chance to score and in general things didn’t go his way, but his work-rate impressed Redknapp.
Adel Taarabt: 7
Didn’t have much joy with the ball but worked very hard without it, showing again how much he’s developed as a player.
Djibril Cisse: 5
Went close a couple of times in the first half, but overall his movement was poor and his contribution not enough.
Rob Green: 7
Pulled off a second-half save which should boost his confidence.
Ji-sung Park: 7
Did very well after coming on. Looked like he has rediscovered his sharpness and a yard of pace.
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This post was last modified on 03/12/2012