DARNELL Furlong thanked the QPR fans – and Shaun Derry – after his successful season out on loan saw him named EDS Player of the Year for the second time running.

Furlong was recognised by the Rangers faithful after an impressive 2015/16 away from W12, helping Northampton Town en route to the League Two title before linking up with Derry at Cambridge United.

The Under-21s defender racked up over 30 appearances in the process and admits the experience has stood him in good stead for the future.

“It was important for me wherever I went just to get games, help build up my CV and my experience of men’s football,” he told www.qpr.co.uk. “It’s been really beneficial to me.”

REGULAR: Darnell Furlong was an ever-present during his time with Shaun Derry and co

The defender was an ever-present during his four-month stay at the Abbey Stadium, and admits he thoroughly enjoyed his time under former R’s favourite Derry.

It was unbelievable working with him, it was great,” Furlong said. “He was excellent working with me and helping me to progress. I think they’re going to do big things next year – since he’s come in they’re right near the top of the form table.

I managed to play every game while I was there so I was really happy with that. I managed to double the amount of games I’ve played professionally whilst I was there.”

Prior to his stint with Derry, Furlong was at Northampton – playing 11 times during a run which set the Cobblers well on course for promotion.

“I was only there for a little spell but while I was there we only lost one league game,” Furlong said.

“I enjoyed it so much and learned a massive amount. It really set me up for when I went to Cambridge because I knew what to expect in the league.”

Furlong now turns his attentions back to QPR and trying to follow in the footsteps of Under-21s team-mate Cole Kpekawa, who was given his chance in the latter stages of the season.

He said: “Cole’s done really well in managing to play the last few games. He’s in and around the squad now and he’s going to try and stay there, and that’s what the rest of us have got to do too.

“At the end of the day, whatever level you’re at, you want to play in the First Team. You’ve just got to try and prove it to the right people and hope for the best."

As for the award, Furlong was chuffed to be recognised by the R’s faithful whilst he’s been away and is hoping to continue where he left off when Rangers return to Harlington for pre-season.

“I’m really thankful to the fans who voted,” he said. “It gives you that bit of confidence coming back next year that there’s people behind you supporting you.

“At the end of the day QPR is where I want to be playing and I’m looking forward to next year.”