Our secret scout is a top football expert who attends matches each week searching for the next star.

He'll bring you his verdict in Sportsmail. This week it's QPR midfielder Michael Doughty under the microscope...

MICHAEL DOUGHTY

AGE: 23

CLUB: QPR (been on loan at Swindon)

POSITION: Left midfield

VALUE: £250,000

2015-16 APPS: 28

GOALS: 5

Midfielder Michael Doughty joined QPR at the age of 14 and has since spent loan spells at a number of clubs

WHAT HAS HE GOT?

Les Ferdinand and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink are sorting out those who might make a contribution to QPR next season.

Looking to impress, while on loan at Swindon, is Michael Doughty, son of late Nottingham Forest chairman Nigel.

Doughty (left) has done well at the County Ground since joining League One outfit Swindon on loan

Playing in a team obsessed with playing out from the very deepest of defensive positions, Doughty was starved of passes at times last season when the opposition pressed high up.

He has had to work hard just to get the ball. But he’s comfortable with set-plays and corners and can land the ball on the proverbial sixpence. For sure he has a good shot, but he has to play in a side who give him the opportunity.

One of the 23-year-old's main strengths is his crossing ability, be it from open play or dead ball situations

WHAT DOES HE NEED?

He has the physique and running power, but I detected a slow reaction on one or two occasions when it came to picking up his immediate opponent.

He is determined in the challenge, but I think he can close people down quicker. I am aware that he is an intelligent boy.

He is interesting, but needs to work on his ability and show a better reaction in his transition and also work on his pace. But his football brain and quality outweigh the downsides and I think he will progress as he gains experience and confidence to attract the ball more.