Joel Lynch has admitted a change of attitude is the main reason for his improved displays for QPR.

The centre-back has been excellent this season, having previously failed to impress since arriving at Loftus Road from Huddersfield in 2016.

He struggled for fitness and form before deciding to get his act together off the pitch, after admitting to himself that he was being given the runaround by Championship strikers because of his lack of sharpness.

Lynch, 31, has been a mainstay of the Rangers defence since the arrival of Steve McClaren as manager.

And he has played a key role in the upturn in results since defeats in McClaren’s first four Championship matches in charge.

“I’ve really concentrated myself on my fitness and things I haven’t done in the past which I should have done,” Lynch explained.

“I’ve got in the gym and really worked at not getting injured. I’ve been working on extra fitness.

“The game has changed so much, even since I’ve been playing, and I’m looking after myself a lot more because I’m having to do extra to keep up with all these fast strikers – better strikers all the time in the Championship.

“And the manager has got me working even harder which has kept me fitter, which is good for me.”

Lynch’s improved performances have led to McClaren calling for him to be considered for a recall to the Wales squad.

His outing as a late substitute in a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2012 is his only international appearance.

The Sussex-born Lynch, whose father is from Barry, said: “At the moment I’m just enjoying playing for QPR. I’ve got a good run of games and feel like I’m playing well.

“I’d love to get in the Wales squad but that’s a thing for the future. If I keep playing games and playing well I’m sure I won’t be far from a call-up.”







