Former QPR favourite Hogan Ephraim believes Rangers should pull out all the stops to try and bring in Nigel Pearson to Loftus Road.

The forward, who spent six years at the club and helped them win promotion to the Premier League in 2011, doesn't think popular choice Brendan Rodgers would step down to the Championship after his spell at Liverpool.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has also caught the 27-year-old's eye but feels Pearson would be a perfect fit at Loftus Road as a replacement for former boss Chris Ramsey.

He said: “I'd go for Pearson first and maybe Hasselbaink next. What Pearson did with Leicester was brilliant.

“There are a few things that stand out for managers when I look at them.

“One, their style of play. I like his style of play. It's high pressing with a lot of energy. They keep the ball well.

“Second, their signings. Pearson signed Mahrez and Jamie Vardy. He's signed those two players and they could go for £40-50million in January combined.

“I think he fits all round. He doesn't take any nonsense. I think he'd be a perfect fit.”

He added: “I can't see Brendan Rodgers going to the Championship. I'd be amazed to see it happen but if it was feasible, he'd be my first choice.”

Burton Albion boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink
Bigger risk: Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink

Ephraim believes Hasselbaink would be a good choice for Rangers after an excellent spell in charge of Burton Albion but the Dutchman's lack of experience is a nagging doubt in his mind.

He explained: “Hasselbaink has had a season and a half and that's the risk. However, he's done extremely well in that season and a half.”

That said, Ephraim is concerned that if QPR make the wrong appointment it would be some time before they were rubbing shoulders with England's elite again.

He explained: “I fear if they don't get this appointment right and they don't get promoted soon, I can see them spending a few years in the Championship at best or even worse.”