Hughes defiant after QPR drop more points

Mark Hughes remains confident QPR will stay up despite their failure to beat Everton at Loftus Road.

The 1-1 draw means Rangers have still managed only two home wins in the league this season – and their tough run-in suggests the result could prove costly.

But manager Hughes was pleased with their efforts and believes they have enough quality to stay in the top flight.

“We’ve got threats and quality in the team with [Djibril] Cisse to come back,” he said.

Hughes backed Taarabt.

“I have no doubt we will score goals and stay in the Premier League. We’ve definitely got enough going forward.

“I was encouraged and they really illustrated that they’ve been listening to my messages. I sensed there was real understanding of what it takes to win.

“We need more of that between now and the end of the season. We’ll take a point and it’s something we can build on.”

And Hughes reserved special praise for Adel Taarabt, who was at fault for Everton’s goal but otherwise produced another impressive performance.

“He’s held his hands up. Don’t forget he’s still young,” the Welshman said.

“Adel bounced back and he affected the game going the other way, and created something that resulted in an equaliser.

“He’s a talented guy and wants to make things happen. There’s a difference in Adel – he understands the responsibility he has now, and I will give him licence to create.”

Hughes added: “I thought Joey Barton was excellent. Shaun Derry was faultless, and so was Clint Hill. A lot of guys are stepping up to the plate.”

See also: Boss to speak to Macheda after Twitter rant

 

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