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Les Ferdinand believes he can rescue the career of controversial talent Ravel Morrison – if he can snap up the striker for QPR.

The 22-year-old free agent was released by West Ham in February and signed a pre-contract deal with Lazio that means he’ll ­officially join the Serie A giants on July 1.

Morrison could not complete the move to Italy beforehand as he went on loan to Cardiff in the 2014-15 campaign, and under FIFA rules you can’t play for three clubs in one season.

Lazio are expecting to formally complete the deal as scheduled. But, if QPR director of football Ferdinand has anything to do with it, Morrison will be starting in the Championship in August.

Former England striker Ferdinand said: “Hopefully it can be resolved, and he will be able to join us.

“There is no question in my mind that Ravel has tremendous talent and is a gifted player. We would love to get him to Rangers.”

Morrison has proved a disciplinary handful wherever he has played – at Manchester United and then West Ham.

He forced his way into the England Under-­21 team two years ago, and was revered by West Ham supporters after his ­stunning solo goal against Tottenham.

But Hammers boss Sam Allardyce – who has since left the club – gave the green light on Morrison signing the pre-­contract with Lazio.

QPR – where Morrison had a 17-appearance loan spell in 2013-14, scoring six goals – hope the Italians will now release him from the agreement.

Ferdinand, who scored more than 80 goals in eight seasons at QPR, added: “Technically, Ravel is great, wonderful. It was not that long ago that he was picked for England Under­-21s.

“He was playing so well that there was even talk about him getting called up for the senior team to play at full level.

(Image: PA)

“He may have made some mistakes, but he is only 22. He has time to learn and fulfil his potential. If I can help him to do that, I will, no problem.

“I have known many, many players who have made mistakes at his age. I made some as well. But at his age, time is on his side. It is not too late for him not at all. I have seen for myself the ability he has got and he would be a great asset.

“What we will do, if we can sign him, is to help get the best out of him. I have seen in my career how other players have turned things around and I am sure that Ravel can do the same.”