Gallen targets return
QPR skipper Kevin Gallen has handed boss Gary Waddock a huge boost by declaring himself ready to return to action.
The influential forward has not played since last October due to back and hamstring problems, but is included in the squad for Tuesday's reserve game at Aldershot.
The 30-year-old is expected to play at least 45 minutes for the second string against the Conference club.
And if he comes through without mishap, Gallen is likely to be chosen in the Rangers squad for Saturday's home clash with Wolves.
Skipper back with a brace
Kevin Gallen grabbed a brace on his return to action for Queens Park Rangers as he looks to put himself in contention for this weekend’s clash with Wolves.
The skipper has been out of action since the end of November with niggling back and hamstring injuries but after coming through a few weeks of full training he made a playing return on Tuesday night.
Gallen played for an hour in a 4-0 win over Aldershot before being withdrawn and with two goals and an impressive all round display will have boosted his hopes of facing Glenn Hoddle’s side this weekend.
Caretaker-manager Gary Waddock told clubcall last week that he felt another week of training would benefit the skipper, which was the reason an appearance against Reading reserves was shelved.
Rangers will now keep a close eye on Gallen and how the injury reacts and he would play some part at Loftus Road this weekend, although a place on the bench is perhaps the most realistic target.
Cautious approach for Gallen
QPR boss Gary Waddock will adopt a cautious approach with Kevin Gallen, who has finally recovered from injury.
The 30-year-old forward scored twice for the reserves in midweek after three months out with back and hamstring trouble, and could return for the first team on Saturday against Wolves.
But caretaker-manager Waddock is determined not to take any chances with his captain.
"Kevin will be vital for us, but we have to make sure he is 100% ready and raring to go when he comes back into the team," Waddock said. Former boss Ian Holloway frequently used Gallen in central midfield, but Waddock added: "I see him as a forward, but it is good to know he could play in the middle if needed."
Striker return delight for boss
Gary Waddock says he is delighted to have Kevin Gallen back in action but says he will not rush the player's return to full fitness.
The striker has been struggling with back and hamstring problems for a while but made his return to action during the draw against Wolves last weekend.
Gallen played for an hour and even though it is early days, the boss was delighted with his display. As long as the striker suffers no reaction he will be able to speed up his return, but the boss will take his time.
"It's great to have Kev back," Waddock told the club's official website. "We only had him play an hour (against Wolves) as we don't want to rush his return.
"But he certainly performed well."
