QPR head coach Neil Critchley has confirmed that Manchester United loanee Ethan Laird's hamstring injury is not as bad as first feared.
The 21-year-old, who joined the Championship club on loan for the duration of the season back in the summer, was forced off shortly before half-time during last Saturday's 1-1 draw with Swansea City at Loftus Road, sparking fears that he could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Laird has been a regular fixture for the Hoops this term, featuring in all but two Championship matchday squads since joining the club in August.
Fortunately, scans have shown that the United academy graduate has not suffered any serious damage, meaning fears the Rs might have had to dive into the transfer market for some cover have been eased. Nevertheless, boss Critchley, who replaced Michael Beale last month, has warned that the right-back is likely to miss Saturday's trip to Hull City.
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"Ethan, when he comes off in the first half, you fear the worst," said Critchley, as quoted by West London Sport. "We got relatively positive news about him and he is not going to be out for a significant period of time.
"He'll be doubtful for this weekend but when you come off with a muscle injury you start to think it's a long-term one, but it is not going to be long term. But he will be doubtful for Saturday."
Laird, who has made 24 appearances for the Londoners this season, scoring one goal and registering two assists in the process, will be determined to get back into the fold as quickly as possible and help his teammates start climbing the table again. QPR have won just one of their last 12 league games and are winless in six in all competitions.
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