Busy Smyth Is New R'S Star

THERE hasn’t been too much for QPR fans to get excited about this season, but the displays of rookie winger Paul Smyth have given them reason for optimism.

- John Lyons

Signed from Northern Irish side Linfield last summer, the 20-year-old enjoyed a stunning debut, capped by the winning goal, as the R’s shocked Cardiff 2-1 on New Year’s Day.

Ahead of yesterday’s home clash against ailing Sunderland, he had notched up four starts and two substitute appearances.

The Belfast-born youngster hasn’t managed to add to his goal tally, but his all-action displays have already won over the Loftus Road faithful.

All his attributes were on display in the 1-1 midweek draw against play-off chasing Derby County last Tuesday.

A willingness to run with the ball and take on defenders, the ability to swing over a pinpoint cross, the hunger to win the ball back if he’d given it away and the desire to put in a crucial challenge if the Hoops looked as though they were going to get hit on the counter.

Bounce

With his lightweight frame, he can look like a boy in a man’s world, yet he packs plenty of punch.