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FLW's QPR fan pundit has given his verdict on Rhys Norrington-Davies' loan stint so far

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Rhys Norrington-Davies has cemented himself as an important part of the QPR side since arriving on loan from Sheffield United late in the summer market.

The full-back arrived on loan from the Blades after falling down the pecking order of the Hoops’ Championship rival over the last few years.

The Welshman struggled for game time in the previous season, making just 14 appearances for the Blades on their way to a third place finish in the table, and a play-off final loss to Sunderland.

Since making the switch to Lotrus Road, the 26-year-old has started in seven of their nine league fixtures.

The left-back is proving a consistent presence under Julien Stéphan, which might lead to the London outfit seeking a permanent move at some point.

QPR should pursue Rhys Norrington-Davies permanent deal

When asked about Norrington-Davies’ loan move so far, FLW’s QPR fan pundit Louis Moir claimed that he’s been a lot better than expected based on how Sheffield United supporters have discussed him prior to his loan.

He’s praised the high standard of performance he’s brought to Loftus Road, and that he’d like to see a permanent deal agreed, if possible.

“I think with Norrington-Davies, obviously when he first joined there was a bit of, not negativity, but comments thinking is he that good, Sheffield United fans have said he’s poor and all that sort of stuff,” Moir told Football League World.

“But you can’t judge a player until they’ve played for your club, and he’s sort of proved those people wrong because he hasn’t put a foot wrong.

“He’s been a solid seven out of 10 every time he’s played, he’s not the quickest as a full-back, but he’s experienced and he’s solid, that’s what we’ve lacked in that position.

“Obviously, I think now it’s a clear mistake Sheffield United have made, but at the time he wasn’t playing well for them, they wanted to loan him out and their fans will argue it wasn’t a mistake.

“But the performances he’s put in for us have been massive.

“I’d love it if there was a permanent deal there potentially next summer, because it might be time for him to leave Sheffield United, he’s been there a while.

“Became a bit out of favour, wasn’t a good feeling there with him and the fans weren’t rating him at all.

“I’ve liked him a lot, if there was a chance of a permanent deal it would be one we have to take up because he would be our left-back for the next couple of years or so, he’s been really good.

“He’s so solid, and going forward he’s not that bad either.”

Moir also believes that Norrington-Davies is an excellent first-choice to have given Ziyad Larkeche’s injury, and that he is someone Esquerdinha can learn a lot from as a less experienced second-choice.

“And I think him coming in was exactly what we needed with Larkeche getting a serious injury and obviously having a young lad in Esquerdinha, who also has been decent when he’s played so far this season,” he added.

“I think with having Norrington-Davies ahead of him will only benefit him and his development because following someone who is just ahead of you in that position who has played international football, Premier League for Sheffield United, for the most part being involved with a team who are challenging in the Championship, that can only be a positive.

“Really hope it’s made possible, and fingers crossed actually Sheffield United don’t recall him because that would be pretty disastrous for us.”

QPR have earned 18 points from their opening 12 fixtures so far this season, winning five and drawing three, which has put them ninth in the table.

The Hoops have earned 11 of those points with Norrington-Davies in the side, emphasising his importance to the side.

Next up for Stéphan’s side is a home clash against Ipswich Town on 1 November in a 3pm kick-off.

Rhys Norrington-Davies loan is working out well for everyone but Sheffield United

Norrington-Davies, who earns an estimated £25k-a-week base salary, was down the pecking order at Sheffield United in the last few years, but now their poor form might lead some to think that they should’ve kept him this season.

The defender has performed well for QPR, and has shown that he is more than capable of competing at this level.

His experience has also made for a great addition to the dressing room, and the assistance he can bring to younger players like Esquerdinha could prove very valuable.

A permanent move in the summer could still be on the cards, as Chris Wilder has not shown a preference for having him in the squad before, so may still agree to a move, even if their form suggests letting him go was a mistake.