Queens Park Rangers' emphatic 3-0 Championship victory over Sheffield Sunday was marred by a significant injury setback for their in-form striker, Rumarn Burrell. Manager Julien Stephan has provided a concerning update ahead of crucial fixtures against West Ham United and Stoke City.
Burrell's Brilliance Cut Short by Injury
The summer signing from Burton Albion opened the scoring at Loftus Road with a superb 10th goal of the season, latching onto a Nicolas Madsen through ball. However, his afternoon ended prematurely when he was forced off after just 20 minutes. Stephan admitted the signs were not positive, suggesting a hamstring problem. "I don't know [about Burrell's injury]," Stephan told West London Sport. "But when you stop like this, it's probably a hamstring, so let's see. We will do a scan. But it's not very good."
Burrell's potential absence is a major blow; he is the first QPR player to score over nine goals in his first 20 appearances for the club since Charlie Austin in 2013. His loss would be a significant boost to upcoming opponents West Ham in the FA Cup and Stoke City in the league.
Triple Injury Blow Compounds QPR's Problems
The woes for Stephan did not end with Burrell. The R's boss confirmed three further injury issues emerging from the match:
- Liam Morrison was withdrawn from the starting line-up after feeling a hip injury during the warm-up.
- Jonathan Varane was substituted just before half-time after "feeling something."
- Kwame Poku reported an issue at the interval, forcing a half-time change.
This spate of injuries casts a shadow over QPR's preparations as they travel to face West Ham in the FA Cup this weekend, before a Championship trip to the bet365 Stadium to play Stoke City on January 17.
Silver Lining as Kolli Seizes His Chance
Amid the injury concerns, a positive note was struck by substitute Rayan Kolli. The 20-year-old, who has struggled for minutes this season, grabbed a decisive brace to seal the win against Wednesday. His contribution offers Stephan a vital attacking option if Burrell is sidelined for a period. The victory lifted QPR to 11th in the Championship table, while Sheffield Wednesday remain bottom due to their points deduction.
The coming days, with scans and further assessments, will be critical for QPR as they navigate a packed schedule with a suddenly depleted squad.
