RUSSELL: CITY FANS CAN BE THE DIFFERENCE

Manager calls for big Bluebirds noise in Shepherd's Bush

Bluebirds Boss Russell Slade has called on City fans to make their traditional away noise at Loftus Road on Saturday.

City remain unbeaten this season after drawing against Fulham on opening day and defeating AFC Wimbledon in Tuesday evening’ Capital One Cup first round tie.

The League Cup fixture brought with it the Bluebirds’ best home attendance for a first round fixture dating back to 1992 – and it’s the City supporters who Russell believes can see his side to victory this weekend.

“Our fans will play a big part,” said Russell on Friday morning. “It's a big game and there’ll be a big game atmosphere.
 
“QPR are always loud and passionate away and we want our fans behind us like they always are when we travel around the country. They can help us – we are going to QPR to win the match.”

The Manager went on to deliver positive news regarding squad fitness and team selection, adding that a number of players had already staked their place for a starting spot after promising personal starts to the season.

“I was looking for players to push for a place and there were a couple of good performances [against AFC Wimbledon],” Russell continued.

"It creates a problem, but they are nice problems. Craig Noone is one; he has done great and responded well after not starting against Fulham.

“I am giving nothing away [as to what I will do on Saturday], but it was a terrific response. He [Noone] has scored two goals in two games and has made his mark.

“We have no major injuries. Manga is making progress, Macheda is doing well, while Turner is on more of a long-term programme. He's seven or eight weeks away.

“Kenwyne [Jones] had a calf strain, but is okay now and it's great to have him back in the group. We know how strong he is in both boxes. He's phenomenally strong.”

Watch Russell’s pre-match press conference and the thoughts of Lee Peltier, from lunch-time on
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