Tom Carroll says he’s thriving under the expectation of Queens Park Rangers’ fans to gain promotion this season.

Our midfield playmaker, on loan with the R’s for the season along with left-back Benoit Assou-Ekotto, has been a regular starter in the centre of the park in recent weeks, having joined up with the Loftus Road side at the end of the Transfer Window.

He has made four starts in the Championship so far this term, and looks set to play a key part in Rangers’ bid to make an immediate return to the top flight following their relegation last year.

And with the players’ determination being mirrored by the fans, Tom says he’s relishing the opportunity to play regular first team football, with a clear goal to aim towards.

“There is a pressure to be promoted automatically, but I quite like playing under that pressure,” said the 21-year-old.

“We’ve dominated possession and it makes a difference, creating chances.

“The first couple of games were a bit scrappy but we’ve got the ball down more in the last couple of games.

“It’s been going well, we’ve played good football and we’re winning games.”

Rangers are currently level on points with Championship leaders Burnley, with the Clarets sitting top on goal difference. Both sides have won eight games and drawn two, although Burnley have played a game more, which they lost.

And Tom says, with fixtures coming thick and fast after the international break, he’s keen to continue his impressive run of form as he bids to shake off a knock he picked up on duty for England Under-21s on Tuesday.

“It’s a massive season for me,” said Tom. “It’s a big chance for me, I wanted game time and at the moment, I’m getting it.

“I’ve done well in the last couple of games and I’ve got to try and maintain that form. I want to play, try and get 90 minutes week in, week out and show what I can do.”

Rangers resume their campaign following the international break with a trip to Millwall on Saturday.