Under-21 games an option for Washington

QPR striker Conor Washington believes he might need to build up his match fitness by playing for the club’s development side before he is considered for first-team selection.

Washington was given an extended break after featuring for Northern Ireland during this summer’s European Championship.

And he has not completed 90 minutes since beginning his pre-season campaign.

Washington says he feels fit ahead of the new season, but admitted: “Without playing 90 minutes it’s hard to tell at the moment.

“Whether I speak to the manager about Under-21 games to get my fitness back up, or he feels I’m ready to go now, that’s his decision.

“But I’m feeling good, confident and will hopefully get some game time.”

Washington, signed from Peterborough in January, scored his first goal for QPR as they beat Watford in a friendly at Loftus Road on Saturday.

He was unable to find the net in his 15 appearances for Rangers last season.

“I’m very pleased for Conor – very happy,” said boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.

“He’s a goalscorer but I’ve asked him to do a little bit more. He’s now playing in the Championship and needs to do other things as well.

“He is trying and he is improving. Goals will help him and I’m pleased that he’s got that one off his shoulder.”