Warburton: Derby tactical change suited QPR

QPR boss Mark Warburton says a tactical change by Derby helped his side in Wednesday’s win at Pride Park.

Rangers were under some pressure in the second half but Macauley Bonne’s late header clinched the points.

“They had a really potent attacking threat,” Warburton said.

“But they changed their shape and we liked that change – it suited what we wanted to do.

“To come here, get the 1-0 victory and keep a clean sheet is very pleasing.

“Derby’s attacking quality is very clear for all to see. They were committing bodies forward, pushing for the victory and leaving gaps behind.

“That’s what we had to try to exploit and thankfully we did that.”

Warburton tipped Rob Dickie to reach the “highest levels of the game” after the defender played a starring role in the victory.

Dickie, back after serving a suspension for being sent of against Barnsley, was outstanding alongside Yoann Barbet.

And he capped a fine display with a superb ball to set up Bonne for Rangers’ goal.

Warburton said: “We missed him. His sending-off at Barnsley changed the whole dynamic of that game.

“He’s a very talented boy and is forming a great partnership with Yoann.

“Both centre-halves stood up tonight and really defended their goal.

“At 24, Rob has got a lot of development still to come. There’s no doubt that he can go to the highest levels of the game.”

Bonne’s goal made it back-to-back victories for Rangers, who had previously gone seven matches without a win.

“If any team puts a run together at this stage then the whole dynamic of the table changes very quickly,” Warburton said.

“It’s two big wins for us and now another tough test at Blackburn on Saturday.”