Luton Town and Queens Park Rangers clash at Kenilworth Road on Friday evening, both sides desperate for their first Championship victory of the season. The two teams lock horns for the second time in three days, following their EFL Cup second round tie.
A Winless Start for Luton
Despite a spirited effort in the Premier League last season, Luton have struggled to find their feet in the Championship. Manager Rob Edwards faces a growing challenge as his side remains winless in four matches across all competitions, scoring just two goals in that period.
The Hatters have shown some improvement since their opening day 4-1 defeat at home to Burnley, holding Portsmouth to a goalless draw despite having their goalkeeper sent off in the first half. However, a 1-0 loss at Preston North End and a 1-1 draw against QPR in the EFL Cup â ultimately losing 4-1 on penalties â have left Edwards needing a win as soon as possible. A victory on Friday would see Luton move up to at least 12th position in the table.
QPR's Unbeaten Run Continues
Meanwhile, QPR are enjoying an unbeaten run in all competitions, extending to four matches, including progression through two rounds in the EFL Cup. However, their Championship form remains unconvincing, despite a spirited comeback draw against fellow relegated Premier League side Sheffield United.
Their two draws at Loftus Road have been frustrating for manager Marti Cifuentes, with West Bromwich Albion securing a 3-1 win before a disappointing 1-1 draw against Plymouth Argyle. QPR were down to 10 men for over an hour and nine men in added time, leaving them feeling like they had missed out on a victory.
Despite a five-match run without a clean sheet, QPR have managed to find the net in each of those games.
Team News and Potential Lineups
Edwards is likely to revert back to a similar starting eleven that took the field at Preston, with Mark McGuinness returning to the back three and new signing Liam Walsh pushing for a start after two substitute appearances. Marvelous Nakamba made his first appearance after injury on Tuesday, but is expected to be on the bench for this encounter.
Cifuentes faces a decision in midfield, with Nicolas Madsen and Jack Colback vying for a starting spot, the latter returning from suspension. Sam Field and Michael Frey, both unused substitutes in the EFL Cup, are also expected to feature in the engine room and attack respectively.
Luton will be buoyed by the prospect of returning to Kenilworth Road after a busy schedule. Despite QPR's unbeaten run, we believe the home advantage will be crucial. A hard-fought win for Luton is the likely outcome.
