Hughes advises Adel on possession

Manager Mark Hughes has warned Adel Taarabt that he needs to protect the ball more as QPR look to avoid relegation.

Taarabt, 22, was a star performer last season as QPR won promotion from the Championship but has struggled this season to make an impact.

The talented youngster has yet to score in the league this season and has only contributed one assist to a side languishing in the bottom three.

“I have no problems with players having confidence trying to affect the game in their own way – either in their own half or the other half,” Hughes told reporters.

“But if you make wrong decisions the consequences can be great. Adel will learn from his mistakes, and what he could get away with in the Championship, you sometimes come a cropper in the Premier League.”

Taarabt is doubtful to face Liverpool on Wednesday with a hamstring injury as he looks to help his side move out of the bottom three.