QPR injury crisis: Top 3 free agents to fill in for Dunne
Published:
Second from bottom and two points from safety going into a midweek clash with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, QPR’s survival hopes were dealt a potentially fatal blow at the weekend with the loss of Richard Dunne to injury.
Now 2/5 with Ladbrokes to go down, the R’s will be without the Irishman for the next three months and could struggle defensively for the remainder of the campaign.
But despite failing to sign another defender during the January transfer window, there are still a number of short-term options available to caretaker manager Chris Ramsey and Harry Redknapp’s potentially permanent successor Tim Sherwood.
Read on then for our pick of three best free agents still available to QPR at this hour of need.
1. Joseph Yobo
Case For: An experienced operator with spells at Everton and Norwich, as well as Marseille and Fenerbahce, to his name Yobo previously developed a reputation as a fine tackler during his time in the Premier League and looked a solid presence in the heart of Nigeria’s defence at the World Cup.
Case Against: The Nigerian is said to be weighing up a move to the MLS so it could take a substantial short-term offer to convince him of a move to Loftus Road. Rumours also persist that the 34-year-old is considering hanging up his boots and moving into politics.
Ladbrokes Odds: 6/1 to sign before the end of the 2014/15 Premier League season
2. Alou Diarra
Case For: Previously with Bayern Munich and Liverpool in his younger days, the ex-Bordeaux and Marseille star is more versatile than Yobo, with the 33-year-old capable of playing either in defence or midfield when required. A total of 44 caps for France also count in his favour.
Case Against: A disastrous short spell with West Ham United will undoubtedly count against him, while Diarra is another who could be heading to the US unless a big offer comes in, with the Frenchman reportedly on trial with Chicago Fire in the MLS.
Ladbrokes Odds: 8/1 to sign before the end of the 2014/15 Premier League season
3. Diego Lugano
Case For: Another option with plenty in the way of pedigree, Lugano previously impressed with Fenerbahce, Malaga and PSG and was a solid presence in the heart of a Uruguay defence that reached the semi-finals of one World Cup and also lifted the Copa America back in 2011.
Case Against: A largely anonymous stint with West Brom will have done the 34-year-old few favours, with the Baggies releasing the Uruguayan at the end of last season after just nine appearances and one goal in the Premier League.
Ladbrokes Odds: 5/1 to sign before the end of the 2014/15 Premier League season
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim up to £25 in free bets.
