QPR boss keen to protect Chair

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Mark Warburton said he took Ilias Chair off against Middlesbrough in order to make sure he plays in QPR’s next couple of matches.

The Morocco international, recently back from the Africa Cup of Nations, was substituted after an hour of Wednesday’s 2-2 draw.

Manager Warburton says that was with Saturday’s game at Barnsley and next week’s London derby against Millwall in mind.

Stefan Johansen, meanwhile, was substituted against Boro because he had been struggling with illness.

“We’ve got to make sure Ilias is OK,” Warburton said.

“He’s fit and well but if I want him to be involved on Saturday and then Tuesday then I’ve got to look after these boys. It’s the same with Lee Wallace. Stef had a stomach upset.”

Dominic Ball, Andre Dozzell, Osman Kakay and George Thomas were all left out of the matchday squad on Wednesday – a sign of how strong Rangers’ squad currently is.

Warburton said: “Four boys didn’t even make the squad and that’s a good sign of the direction we’re moving in.

“It’s the depth of the squad – and we have to have it. There are going to be injuries and suspensions and dips in form.

“Dom Ball, Andre Dozzell, Ossie Kakay and George Thomas could step in and start for us, no problem.

“That’s a really good problem to have and a nice place to be. But tough on them.

“They want to play, but that’s the nature of football. They’ve got to recognise the role they’re going to play in the next 17 games.”