Mark Hughes says he has been hugely impressed by Adel Taarabt – and believes there is plenty more to come from the Moroccan.
Taarabt was out of favour at QPR prior to Hughes’ appointment as manager and the club had been open to offers for him for some time.
But the new boss is quick to point out the 22-year-old’s relative lack of experience and believes he can make him a better player.
Hughes said: “I’m enjoying working with him. He’s a very bright kid, he’s good around the place, and I’ve been really, really impressed with him.
“I think there’s more to come. With the right work and the right direction he could be more effective than he has been in the past.
“It’s his first season in the Premier League and we want to make sure he improves year on year. I think with my and my staff’s help he’ll be a better player.”
Taarabt’s recent display against Wolves was an encouraging sign and belied his reputation for immaturity.
With Rangers down to 10 men following the sending-off of Djibril Cisse he produced some of his best moments of the season – giving Hughes food for thought.
“I was pleased because he took on responsibility and that’s what you want from players,” Hughes explained.
“He understood the situation and that he had to really drive the game for us and that’s what he did.
“I like players who are able to understand what’s going on and are able to take responsibility in a game. Some shy away from it but he certainly didn’t.”
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This post was last modified on 14/02/2012