Three key things Holloway had to change at QPR – in his own words
Ian Holloway has been quick to make his mark following his return to QPR for a second spell as manager.
He has immediately changed Rangers’ shape and their style of play since replacing the sacked Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
In three key areas, Holloway believes the wrong approach was taken prior to his arrival.
Style of play – especially at home
Discontent among fans at Hasselbaink’s perceived reluctance to attack was a major reason for the Dutchman losing his job.
His successor showed with his team selection for Saturday’s home win against Norwich that he felt a different approach was needed.
Holloway’s verdict: “Counter-attacking is fine away from home, but not at home in my opinion. We’ve got to make sure we can score goals. I want our fans to entertained when they come.”
Three at the back
As Rangers laboured under Hasselbaink, Holloway was one of many interested observers who felt a switch to three at the back ought to have occurred.
Well stocked with central defenders and midfielders, the system also allows Rangers to play Tjaronn Chery in the number 10 role and have two strikers – the answer to a conundrum Hasselbaink just couldn’t provide.
Holloway’s verdict: “I believe Lynch, Hall and Onuoha should have played it before. They would have enough nous to do it.”
Washington up front
Holloway is clear: Washington is a striker who plays off the shoulder. Full stop.
Previously deployed on the left by Hasselbaink, he had scored just one league goal for QPR before netted the opener against Norwich.
Holloway’s verdict: “How can he score if he’s playing left-wing, doubling up at left-back at times?
“I’m not criticising anybody. We all see things differently. But I’ve been asked to take a good, fresh look at it.”
