Queens Park Rangers have received a significant boost ahead of this weekend's crucial Championship encounter with West Bromwich Albion, as the Baggies will be without key defender Nat Phillips.
Defensive Blow for West Brom Ahead of Loftus Road Trip
The two sides, separated by just a single place in the table and level on points after 18 games, meet at Loftus Road with Phillips serving a mandatory one-match suspension. The centre-back, a summer signing from Liverpool, picked up his fifth yellow card of the season during West Brom's dramatic 3-2 win over Swansea City last weekend.
Under EFL regulations, any player accruing five cautions before a club's 19th fixture of the campaign must serve an immediate ban. Had Phillips avoided a booking against Swansea, the threshold would have moved to ten yellows before the 32nd match.
His absence is a major setback for Baggies boss Ryan Mason. Phillips had been an ever-present, completing 90 minutes in every Championship match this season prior to being substituted at half-time against Swansea. His error contributed to the Swans' opening goal in that match.
Opportunity for QPR's In-Form Attack
For QPR, looking to bounce back from a defeat at Norwich City, Phillips' suspension presents a clear opportunity. Striker Rumarn Burrell will be particularly keen to capitalise, having found a rich vein of form with six goals in his last nine appearances. The defensive reshuffle forced upon the visitors could be pivotal in a tightly-contested fixture.
Millwall's 'Catalyst' Sidelined Until February
In other Championship news, Millwall manager Alex Neil has confirmed a significant injury blow. Midfielder Luke Cundle is expected to be sidelined for approximately eight weeks with a shoulder injury.
The 23-year-old sustained the problem during the Lions' 1-0 midweek victory over Sheffield Wednesday and missed their last-gasp win against Southampton as a result. Neil, who had previously described Cundle as a 'catalyst' in his midfield, revealed the timeframe to local media, indicating a return likely not before February.
This is the latest fitness setback for the player, who joined Millwall from Wolves for a reported £1 million in January 2025 and scored the winner on his debut against QPR. He has already missed matches this season with a calf issue.
The extended absence of a key creative influence will test Millwall's squad depth as they navigate a busy festive period in the Championship.
