Holloway has lifted morale, says Washington

Conor Washington says his morale has been lifted by Ian Holloway’s return to QPR.

Rangers began Holloway’s second reign as manager with a thrilling 2-1 victory against Norwich on Saturday.

Washington, deployed on the left flank under previous boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, was played up front alongside Sebastian Polter.

He responded with a lively display – and his second league goal since joining the R’s from Peterborough in January.

“It’s hard not to get a lift just from speaking to him. His enthusiasm is infectious,” said Washington.

“He’s such a positive guy. He’s been brilliant, especially for the forward players.

“He wants to score goals. He wants to score one more than the other team, which is exactly the sort of attitude you want to hear as a striker.

“He wants us to play to our strengths, which is really important to me.

“It’s been tough for me since I’ve been here and it was nice to play in a two up front, which is good for me.

“Seb is really good to play off. I think the little-and-large combination works. I’ve always played in that and it’s what you get used to.”

Washington, 24, says Holloway’s training methods have also raised spirits in the Rangers camp after a difficult spell under Hasselbaink.

“The enthusiasm he shows comes through in training,” the striker explained.

“We’ve been doing short and sharp, fun stuff. It’s been a real boost.”

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