Charlie Austin’s goals could be enough to keep Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League this season, according to former Hoops midfielder Gary O’Neil.

The 25-year-old has been a revelation for Harry Redknapp’s side, scoring six goals in ten league appearances.

And O’Neil, who joined Norwich City from QPR during the summer, praised those who were involved in signing the striker from Burnley in 2013.

“Whoever decided to sign him [Austin] needs a big pat on the back because last year there is no way we [QPR] would have gone up without him,” O’Neil told talkSPORT.

“This year I’m not sure how many points they would have had without him – he’s been fantastic.

“To have come on as quickly as he has is great. I’m really pleased for him.”

Another of O’Neil’s former clubs West Ham, have enjoyed a fantastic start to the Premier League this season and the midfielder believes the club’s transfer business in the summer has laid the foundations for the Hammers’ impressive performances.

“Their transfers in the summer were fantastic,” he added. “When I saw Alex Song had signed, I instantly tweeted that West Ham would be fine [in the Premier League].

“To get a midfielder of his quality from Barcelona shows their intent to do well this year.”