View: Birmingham City deal appears to be a masterstroke by QPR…

This season, Queens Park Rangers (QPR) have faced challenges in the Championship, but with 13 games left, there are signs of improvement in their performance and results.

Marti Cifuentes, the Spanish manager, took over in October following Gareth Ainsworth’s tough start to the season. Despite initial struggles, there’s a sense of progress under his leadership, although QPR has lingered near the relegation zone in the second-tier league.

The January transfer window proved crucial for QPR as Cifuentes had the opportunity to bring in new players and shape the team’s identity. This included making strategic decisions to release some players, such as loaning out Andre Dozzell, to free up space in the squad and wage bill.

While letting go of Dozzell, who had been a regular starter, seemed risky, it ultimately benefited both QPR and Birmingham City, the loaning club, with Birmingham gaining an experienced midfielder and QPR making room for new signings.

During the January window, QPR welcomed four new players to the squad, including Isaac Hayden, Joe Hodge, Michael Frey, and Lucas Andersen. Andersen, in particular, has stood out with his contributions, already providing two assists in his limited playing time.

His impact has been highlighted by his recent performance against Bristol City, where he not only assisted a crucial goal but also earned the Player of the Match award. Andersen’s ability to create scoring opportunities could be pivotal for QPR as they aim to improve their goal-scoring record and avoid relegation from the Championship.