Ngbakoto needs time to get fit – Hasselbaink

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Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink says recent QPR signing Yeni Ngbakoto will need time to improve his fitness following the French winger’s move to the club.

Ngbakoto, signed from Metz last week, made his debut in Wednesday’s EFL Cup tie against Swindon and scored the opening goal.

The 24-year-old looked lively in spells and boss Hasselbaink hopes there is plenty more to come.

“Yeni is not fit yet. We need to work him. We need to give him time,” manager Hasselbaink said.

“He hasn’t worked as intensively during pre-season as he’s working now, so we need to build that up.

“But you saw quality here and there. Hopefully we can bring that out of him on a regular basis.”

Washington’s struggle

Rangers prevailed in a penalty shoot-out at Loftus Road, where Conor Washington scored his first competitive goal for the club.

The striker struggled for much of the match, however, as Hasselbaink’s side twice lost the initiative after taking the lead.

“Conor needs that little bit of confidence – needs that little boost. He suffered a little bit and had a difficult time out there, Hasselbaink admitted.

“But he kept on going and when you keep on going the chance will come, and you need to put it away and he did that so I’m pleased for him.”

Ingram impresses

One definite positive for Rangers is the continued good form of keepers Alex Smithies and Matt Ingram.

With Smithies rested, Ingram again impressed, making important saves during normal time and keeping out two penalties to help his team reach the second round.

Smithies is expected to be restored for Sunday’s league match at Cardiff, where Rangers will be looking to maintain their early position at the top of the Championship.

“Smithies is playing well, Ingram is playing well. I like that they are both at it – we like that and it’s a problem I like to have,” Hasselbaink said.

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