Mark Warburton believes George Thomas has been a big loss to QPR during his time on the sidelines.
Summer signing Thomas returned to full training this week following a troublesome thigh problem.
The Wales international, seen by Warburton as the natural replacement for the injured Luke Amos in the advanced midfield role, has been out for almost two months.
The Rangers camp believe Thomas' willingness to run beyond strikers and into the penalty box means he could have a crucial role to play in boss Warburton's preferred system, in which Lyndon Dykes operates as a lone striker.
“He has that energy and he has that desire," Warburton explained.
“He has an eye for goal as well and has good timing of movement into key attacking areas. We’ll welcome him back with open arms.
“He’s shown a great attitude - a really hardworking attitude - and we’ve undoubtedly missed him, especially after losing Luke Amos as well.”