Caulker to start for QPR in cup game

Steven Caulker is set to make his first appearance for QPR since last October. 

The defender has been selected to start this evening’s League Cup tie against Northampton Town at Loftus Road, where new signing Alex Baptiste will be among the substitutes.

Caulker, who has spoken of his mental health issues and addictions to alcohol and gambling, recently returned to training.

Rangers are hoping he will complete 90 minutes, while Ryan Manning and Ariel Borysiuk are also expected to feature.

Manning was left out of the matchday squad for Saturday’s win against Reading after Holloway opted to give Borysiuk a place on the bench.

Defender Baptiste, who previously played under Holloway at Blackpool, was signed on a two-year deal on Monday after being released by Middlesbrough.