Mark Warburton believes loan signing Matt Smith can perform an important defensive midfield role for QPR.
Smith’s arrival from Manchester City was confirmed on Monday and Rangers boss Warburton is confident the Wales international, 19, can make an impact at Loftus Road.
Warburton told the club website: “Matt can play as a defensive midfielder or slightly more advanced.
“He is comfortable in both positions. I see him playing a key role in front of our back four.
“He is tenacious, he rats to get the ball, he’s very comfortable in possession, takes the ball in tight areas and has a lovely range of passing as well.
“There is always going to be competition for places and he knows that but I think he is really excited by the challenge ahead.”
What that means for Josh Scowen remains to be seen.
Scowen was himself described as a “rat” in midfield – in his case by former R’s boss Ian Holloway – but it appears that Smith has been signed to play that role.
That could leave Scowen with a fight to secure a place in Warburton’s side during the coming season.
“When you go to any new club you want to be playing games,” said Smith.
”That’s why I have come here – to prove I can play at this level. I’ve got to prove it to myself and to everybody here.”