QPR hitman Charlie Austin could be in for a surprise return at either Bournemouth on Saturday, or Blackburn next Tuesday.



The forward, originally ruled out for the season with a dislocated shoulder, has defied medical expectation and took part in his first short practice game today that also heralded a run-out for midfielders Jermaine Jenas and Armand Traore, also recently in the wars.



Rangers leading scorer was leaned on throughout the practice by defender Richard Dunne to boost everyone in the camp after a disappointing 1-1 home draw to Blackpool at the weekend.



After the workout at Rangers training ground, Austin and Traore stayed on for extra crossing and shooting, with Dunne admitting it was good to have Austin back.



“I think that’s first time Charlie’s been involved in contact games, and everyone knows what a boost he was to the side when he played,” he said.

Austin, with 15 goals under his belt before he got hurt in the 2-1 win over Bolton back in January, started his non-league career down the road from Bournemouth at Poole Town.