QPR ‘still need to improve’ – Cifuentes

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Marti Cifuentes has suggested that QPR still need to improve their transfer dealings despite climbing off the bottom of the Championship.

Rangers’ 2-0 victory at Cardiff on Wednesday was only their second league win of the season and took them above Portsmouth, who have played two matches fewer.

It also eased the pressure on head coach Cifuentes – and summer signing Zan Celar, whose first goals for the club secured the much-needed points.


An overhaul of the squad, led by chief executive Christian Nourry and involving Cifuentes, assistant boss Xavier Calm and head of recruitment Andy Belk, has so far proved unsuccessful – and Cifuentes insists this week’s win does not change the issues which exist.

“The reality is that one win will not change much,” he said.

“We need to improve and, I keep repeating, the club needs to understand there are some things that we need to improve as a club that I’ve been saying since the summer and so far we have not improved those areas.

“We need to understand that this is a very demanding league and we play against very good teams. One win, it’s a step forward, but we need to take many more – and we need help.”

Injuries to key players have also hampered Rangers. They have been without the likes of Ilias Chair, Jake Clarke-Salter, Jack Colback, Michael Frey, Karamoko Dembele and Kenneth Paal.

Some of Cifuentes’ recent comments have appeared to hint at a lack of support from the club’s hierarchy.

However, he says there has been backing from them, as well as from fans who have been strong in their support for him during the team’s dismal run.

“They (the fans) have been incredible with me and I will try every day – I am working every day – to pay them back,” Cifuentes said.

“I also felt support from the players and from the owners. Everybody has been excellent in a difficult period.

“I know how ruthless this job can be and I really appreciate the support from the fans, the players and owners.”