Any team in the Championship “would miss” Manchester United loanee Ethan Laird, according to Queens Park Rangers manager Michael Beale.
After coming off in the 2-1 win against Reading due to muscle tightness 12 days ago, the 21-year-old missed QPR’s 3-1 defeat to Luton Town on Saturday due to Beale not wanting to risk the Red Devils academy graduate.
But the pacey and attack-minded right-back is back available for tonight’s Championship clash against Cardiff City at Loftus Road.
Michael Beale gives high praise to Ethan Laird
Ahead of the clash against the Bluebirds, The R’s boss Beale gave high praise to Laird and the impact he’s already had at Loftus Road since joining on a season-long loan.
In his pre-match interview, Beale said: “Leon Balogun is fine – he’s back training available for the game, as is Ethan Laird.
“A QPR team without Ethan Laird and Chris Willock is still a very good one – but they are two players anyone in this league would miss.”
Laird has started ten Championship games since making the move down south and he’s scored one goal and provided two assists across those appearances.
After playing under Erik ten Hag during United’s Tour 22, Laird is once again impressing in the second tier of English football after spells with Swansea City and promoted Bournemouth last season.
While Laird will be focused on rekindling the form he consistently showed before coming off against The Royals, he and the rest of the QPR side may have found it difficult not to be distracted by the news surrounding Beale.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have made Beale their number one target to replace Bruno Lage, according to The Athletic.
The Athletic’s report states: “The Midlands club are expected to move quickly, with contact anticipated between Wolves and his current club Queens Park Rangers to discuss his potential release.
“Contact between the two clubs is yet to be made, however.”
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
