QPR bowed out of the EFL Cup after Sunderland came from behind at Loftus Road. Here’s how we rated each Rangers player in their 2-1 defeat.
Produced a handful of fine saves that kept his side in the game and he generally looked tidy. Alex Smithies’ place as number one could be in jeopardy.
Brought back into the line-up as the R’s returned to cup action, but this time the youngster operated as a right-back – his natural position. Kakay did well it and might be worth giving him a shot in league games.
Took on the captain’s role well with a responsible performance at the back.
A solid display in only his second start for the club since signing in the summer and he played a part in QPR’s goal.
A tough debut for the youngster, who was left exposed to Sunderland’s summer signing Didier Ndong. But he kept going and grew in stature as the game went on.
A first start for the Polish winger and he showed part of the job he was brought in to do. While his success going forward was limited, his work in defence deserves praise. When moved to the left, he provided ample support for Hamalainen and his positional sense was pretty spot on.
Improved hugely as the game sped up in the second half. Playing on instinct, Cousins can pass, break up opposing attacks and hunt the ball down in the pressing style that boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink wants. When the game is slower, Cousins is sometimes less effective.
Restored to the starting line-up after scoring a brace in his last appearance, which came in the same competition, Sandro was again on the scoresheet with an excellent finish. His work away from the goal, though, sometimes left much to be desired. He was often too slow to close down opposing midfielders, who played around him with ease at times.
Given another starting chance, but this time in a wide position supporting a lone front man. He showed some glimpses of what he can produce, as his strength and running off the shoulder of the Sunderland defence were highlights that perhaps suggest he can play as a wide man in the future. He would benefit, though, from playing in front of an experienced player like Jake Bidwell.
Lacklustre at times, this wasn’t one of the Dutchman’s best displays. Two of his corners in the first half led directly to attacking opportunities for Sunderland where Rangers were lucky to survive without conceding. He improved, though, after the R’s goal.
Another player making a first start and he produced a steady performance – no real efforts on goal, but he worked hard to bring other players into attacking positions.