QPR expect Bidwell to quickly shake off ankle problem

Jake Bidwell is expected to shake off a slight ankle injury in time for QPR’s Championship opener against Leeds United next weekend.

Bidwell was substituted near the end of Rangers’ pre-season friendly against Watford on Saturday.

But boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes the recent signing from neighbours Brentford will be available for Sunday’s game.

“He should be. He twisted his ankle a little bit and I did not want to take any risks with it,” Hasselbaink said.

Bidwell and fellow summer signing Jordan Cousins featured against Watford after recovering from minor injuries.

Left-back Bidwell had been nursing a knock, while midfielder Cousins picked up a groin injury in a friendly at Wycombe.

Nevertheless, Hasselbaink believes both players have settled in well at Loftus Road.

Little niggles

The Dutchman said: “Jordan is from London and Jake is from Liverpool but has been in London for a while now and wanted to stay in London.

“It means it was easier for them to settle in. They also know the Championship, which helps. So settling in is going to be quicker.

“Playing-wise, they’re getting with the terms. They had little niggles but they’re coming out of that now and it’s now for them to get a little bit sharper.”

Bidwell will begin the season as Rangers’ first-choice left-back.

Jack Robinson will be unavailable for the start of the campaign because of a knee problem related to his previous long-term injury.