QPR boss Cifuentes reveals change of approach in training to try and improve set-piece woes
Marti Cifuentes has tried to improve QPR’s poor record conceding goals from set pieces by making adjustments in training.
Rangers have let in seven goals from dead ball situations in Cifuentes’ 12 games in charge and were condemned to a 2-1 defeat to Cardiff on New Year’s Day due to two goals scored from corners.
This has seen the Spaniard alter his approach to try and make up a four-point gap between the 23rd-placed Rangers and Championship safety.
“Cardiff didn’t create a lot of chances because we have a structure and the team is doing well in terms of organisation,” said Cifuentes.
“In the situation we are in, you need to maximise all the opportunities and set pieces is one of them. It is not just about top quality but also about focus, working hard in training, about understanding certain things.
“Unfortunately, we have been very weak. We have been the second-best defensive team since I took over, we have conceded only four goals in open play which is a good foundation. But if you concede seven goals from set-pieces [in that time], there is no way we can get the results that we need.
“We have been working in a deeper way in the past few days. It is usually an important part [of training] but we have made adjustments. To change results you need to change some things and that is what we have done. Most of the time it is just about details.”
Cifuentes also revealed that he will still be without Ilias Chair, Chris Willock, Steve Cook and Jack Colback for Saturday’s FA Cup third round tie against Bournemouth at Loftus Road.
None of the four have recovered from injury in time to face the Cherries, with Rayan Kolli also unavailable after being forced off with a knock against Cardiff and Charlie Kelman facing a late fitness test.
The absentees combined with a six-match winless run in the league have left the QPR boss facing a tough task in his first taste of FA Cup action.
“I’m looking forward to being part of this historical competition, I know that it means a lot in English football,” said Cifuentes.
“We need to be aware that it doesn’t come in our best moment with some injured players and a bad dynamic of results.
“I would like to approach this competition in another scenario, but we are going to try and have a positive approach and make the most of it.”
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