McClaren says QPR defender Lynch deserves Wales call-up
Steve McClaren has called for QPR defender Joel Lynch to be recalled to the Wales squad after an absence of more than six years.
Having failed to impress after being signed from Huddersfield in 2016, Lynch has been in excellent form this season.
He has played a key role in a run in which his side have lost just three of their past 13 Championship matches.
The 31-year-old has one Wales cap but his outing as a late substitute in a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2012 is his only international appearance.
And McClaren believes it is time for Wales boss Ryan Giggs to consider selecting Lynch.
McClaren worked with Giggs during the Rangers manager’s spell as Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Manchester United.
McClaren said: “Many of the staff have been saying to make a call to Ryan Giggs, because the way he (Lynch) is performing – he’s doing very well, the level he’s at.
“He needs to keep his feet on the ground and keep producing that level. But the level he’s at, yes, Wales should take notice.”
Lynch, who was born in Eastbourne, qualifies to play for Wales because his father is from Barry.
‘Terrfic’
He scored his second goal of the season as QPR came from behind to beat neighbours Brentford 3-2 at Loftus Road on Saturday.
“I thought it was a terrific game of football and Brentford contributed to that. There were two very good teams,” McClaren said.
“It was a great game of football and we were fortunate enough to win the game.
“We showed character at 1-0 down to go 3-1 up – we blew them away for 10 minutes. They came back and we had to hold on, which we did.”
