Darnell Furlong looks likely to start for QPR at Reading on Thursday after James Perch was sent home from training ill on the eve of the game.

Rangers recently recalled right-back Furlong, 21, from a season-long loan at Swindon because manager Ian Holloway is keen to give him a chance in the first team.

And that chance might come at the Madejski Stadium, where Holloway is ready to turn to Furlong unless Perch makes a swift recovery.

It would be Furlong’s Championship debut – his previous league appearances for QPR came in the top flight.

“We’ve sent Perchy home. He absolutely looked totally dreadful – he really felt quite ill,” Holloway said.

“He might join us at the hotel tonight, but he might not.”

Perch’s illness meant Furlong trained with the first team as Holloway prepared the side for the match against the Royals.

“I put Furlong in and my God he looked magnificent. (Osman) Kakay can play there but Furlong is more experienced,” Holloway said.

Rangers are still without the injured Conor Washington, Steven Caulker and Jack Robinson, while Jordan Cousins could be facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a thigh problem.

See also: QPR get second opinion on Caulker and consider loan signing







