QPR boss Cifuentes explains Ilias Chair absence in pre-season Tottenham defeat
Marti Cifuentes revealed that Ilias Chair missed QPR’s 2-0 pre-season defeat to Tottenham because of an issue with his back.
The winger watched the game from the directors’ box having featured in Rangers’ first two preparation games for the new season.
Midfielder Sam Field was also absent against Spurs after picking up an injury in the 11-0 win against FC L’Escala during a training camp in Girona.
“Illy had a bit of discomfort in his back yesterday after training,” explained Cifuentes.
“We didn’t want to risk it, both of them are very important players for us and hopefully can be involved very soon.
“Sam Field definitely should be ready very soon. With Illy I have got some news from the doctor that I need to discuss but I’m very positive about them coming back soon.”
QPR were beaten 2-0 by Tottenham courtesy of goals from Yves Bissouma and Dane Scarlett but did cause the Premier League side problems at Loftus Road.
Rayan Kolli – who was taken off in a planned substitution at half-time – rattled the crossbar in the first half before Lyndon Dykes was denied with a header from a corner after the break.
Rangers take on Reading and Brighton in their remaining pre-season matches before getting their Championship campaign underway against West Brom on August 10.
“I’m quite satisfied with the performance, not that much with the final score,” said Cifuentes.
“We saw a team that is trying to be brave on the pitch when we have the ball and when we need to defend.
“We had a period between the 20th minute and the 35th minute where we competed against a very good team in the Premier League.
“In the last minutes we had a bit of a lack of energy but it is normal because we are coming from a big week in terms of training and load.
“Tottenham are very sharp. The difference for me is the last third capacity they have to accelerate and create chances very quickly. It’s probably what made the difference today.”
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