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Austin has single-handedly kept Rangers on course for a Premier League return.

The £4m striker has scored almost half of his side’s miserly 33-goal tally this season.

But the west Londoners have learned Austin he needs surgery on a shoulder injury picked up in the midweek win over Bolton.

Redknapp said: “Charlie will be out for the season and losing him is a blow to us. He’s been fantastic for us - our Roy of the Rovers.

“Every week he’s pulled us out of the mire. But hopefully we can still maintain our promotion bid despite being without him.”

QPR’s credentials will be put on the line today when they begin life after Austin with the visit of third-placed Burnley.

Redknapp added: “It’ll be a difficult game. People say they’ll fade away but I don’t see why.

“They’ve got good players. Their two front men (Danny Ings and Sam Vokes) have been outstanding.”