QPR ‘very lucky’ to have Cook

Marti Cifuentes has paid tribute to QPR captain Steve Cook for his outstanding performances this season.

The centre-back, 33, was excellent for Rangers even when they were struggling at the bottom of the Championship.

And he has played a starring role in the recent run in which they are unbeaten in six matches – conceding only two goals in the process – and have climbed above the relegation zone.

“We’re very lucky to have him. He’s a fantastic player,” head coach Cifuentes said.

“The way he defends the box is Premier League level in my opinion. So he’s definitely a big asset for us because of his leadership and calmness.

“He’s also helping a player in Liam Morrison, who had no experience in the Championship, to grow a lot.

“You can see they are working really well together and that says a lot about his (Cook’s) leadership.

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“When it comes to defending crosses and other balls into the box he’s excellent. He never makes a mistake, is always so focused and ready.”

Cook was impressive again in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Bristol City – a match Rangers at one stage feared he might miss after he suffered a minor injury on the eve of the game.

Cifuentes explained: “We are lucky. He had a small problem so couldn’t finish training. But he had no doubt that he would play.”