QPR v Leeds United: five key battles

QPR face Leeds at Loftus Road this weekend. Here are five potential battles we think could be all-important in Saturday’s game.

Charlie Austin v Giuseppe Bellusci or Sol Bamba
Rangers are without a goal in four matches and will be hoping top scorer Austin declares himself available. Imposing Leeds captain Bamba has also been out injured but could return, otherwise Bellusci will continue to deputise at centre-back.

Matty Phillips v Charlie Taylor
Leeds potentially have problems at left-back and this could be an area QPR might be able to exploit through Phillips. Taylor has been out since early October because of glandular fever but might be called into action this weekend as Gaetano Berardi, who has been standing in for him, is suspended after being sent off against Rotherham.

Paul Konchesky v Stuart Dallas
Former Brentford star Dallas was criticised by Leeds boss Steve Evans for his display against Rotherham but has generally impressed since leaving west London, including during an excellent display at Fulham last month.

Nedum Onuoha and Grant Hall v Chris Wood and Mirco Antenucci
Leeds’ strike pair have 11 league goals between them this season and operate as no-nonsense forwards who look to put constant pressure on opposing centre-backs. QPR’s defending has improved dramatically in recent weeks – Middlesbrough’s injury-time winner last time out denied the R’s a fourth clean sheet in six matches – and they will need to be alert on Saturday.

Sandro v Lewis Cook
Cook, 18, has been linked with Premier League clubs after catching the eye for Leeds. Rangers will want Sandro to make his experience count and help his team control the midfield.