QPR forward Alfie Lloyd is facing at least a couple of months on the sidelines, head coach Julien Stéphan has told West London Sport.
Lloyd limped off after coming on as a substitute in Saturday’s 4-1 defeat at Southampton, and appeared upset as he left the pitch.
Stéphan confirmed the bad news QPR fans had feared when he spoke on Monday.
“It’s a long-term injury,” he said. “It will probably be difficult for him to come back before the end of the year.”
The forward appears to have suffered a hamstring tear.
It is a cruel blow for Lloyd, who had made nine appearances for the R’s this season and was on target in the recent 4-1 home win over Derby.
There was more injury news for Stéphan, with defender Jake Clarke-Salter set to miss Tuesday night’s Championship clash with Burnley at Loftus Road.
Clarke-Salter was a doubt going into the Southampton game and ended up as an unused substitute at St Mary’s. He is not expected to be involved against the Clarets.
Despite the heavy defeat on the south coast, Stéphan insisted his side are an improved team compared with last season.
“We are stronger than last season. It’s clear,” he said, adding that he felt the scoreline was harsh on his players.
QPR will be looking to bounce back when Burnley visit W12, with kick-off at 7.45pm.