QPR v Crystal Palace preview

Posted Saturday, March 12, 2011 by skysports.com

Team news ahead of Saturday afternoon's Championship clash between QPR and Crystal Palace at Loftus Road.

QPR will be without defender Danny Shittu for the derby.

The Nigerian centre-back was shown a straight red card for a professional foul in Tuesday night's 2-0 defeat against Millwall, and will now serve a one-match ban.

Fellow defender Fitz Hall remains doubtful with the hamstring problem that forced him to miss out against the Lions, so Matthew Connolly could be in line to start.

Strikers Ishmael Miller and Tommy Smith will both be hoping for recalls after stepping off the bench in midweek, while defender Pascal Chimbonda is also vying for a starting berth after his substitute appearance against the Lions.

Defender Peter Ramage (cruciate) and strikers Patrick Agyemang and Jamie Mackie (both broken leg) are long-term absentees.

Crystal Palace boss Dougie Freedman will include new signing Kemy Agustien in his squad for the short trip across the capital.

The 24-year-old Swansea midfielder, who has made 11 appearances for the Swans in all competitions this season, has signed on loan until the end of season and will go straight into the Eagles party to face the Hoops.

Fellow Midfielder Alex Marrow, who has missed the last six games with an ankle problem, could also be included the squad, but may have to settle for a place on the bench.

Striker Pablo Counago is pushing for a starting role after replacing Steffen Iversen for the final 21 minutes against the Bluebirds, although Jermaine Easter and Wilfried Zaha are also available for a recall.

Goalkeeper Julian Speroni will continue between the posts after getting through 90 minutes unscathed on his return from a groin problem.

Striker Calvin Andrew has joined League One side Swindon on a month's loan.