QPR boss fires warning to West Brom and Middlesbrough over Freeman

Steve McClaren has insisted that QPR are under no pressure to sell players.

It comes as Rangers playmaker Luke Freeman is being linked with Middlesbrough and West Brom – and after the west London club were ordered to pay a FFP fine.

Manager McClaren believes last week’s news that his club must pay £17m plus £3m costs following a lengthy legal battle with the EFL will not mean he has to lose players.

He told West London Sport: “Whatever news came out, it doesn’t change the situation we’re in.

“It doesn’t change our plans in terms of we don’t have to sell players we don’t want to sell. We don’t have to do that.

“The owners are still right behind this football club – right behind taking it forward, despite the hurdles which people have put in front. They want to progress.”

McClaren also told West London Sport that Grant Hall is set to return to action in a behind-closed-doors game against Swindon Town on Tuesday.

“Grant has trained very well and got the all-clear from the specialist,” said McClaren.

“He’ll train today and then we’ve got a game behind closed doors against Swindon on Tuesday and he’ll play 45 in that.

“That’s going to be a real big bonus because he’s looked good in training and we need leaders.

“We need more players who are vocal and what Hally really gives is that. We’ve seen that in training. We want Grant on that pitch and playing.”