QPR have adapted Andy Johnson’s training in an attempt to keep the striker fit, but boss Harry Redknapp insists he is happy to keep playing with one up front.
Johnson, transfer target for his former club Crystal Palace, has struggled with a knee problem and been restricted to only two first-team appearances – both as a substitute – since a proposed move back to Selhurst Park fell through on deadline day.
Palace plan to make another attempt to sign him when the transfer window reopens in January and in the meantime Rangers are doing everything they can to make sure he is available for selection.
Redknapp explained: “He trains a couple of days a week and then a couple of days he doesn’t train. We’ve had to nurse him through a bit.”
Johnson looked sharp after coming off the bench during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Reading.
And Redknapp believes his return will ease the pressure on Charlie Austin, who has played in all 15 of Rangers’ league matches this season.
But the former Tottenham manager is in no rush to sacrifice a midfielder in favour of a second striker.
“Luckily Charlie has stayed fit, which has been good for us, and the system we’ve played has suited us fine,” he said.
“Arsenal are doing okay with it as well – they’re not doing too badly with one striker.
“Controlling football games now is what it’s about and you’ve got more chance of doing that with the extra player in midfield.”
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This post was last modified on 13/11/2013