QPR striker Matt Smith says It's been a 'frustrating' start to the season after dropping down the pecking order at Loftus Road.

Despite being the Hoops' joint-top goal-scorer, the former Leeds United and Fulham front-man has found a place in the starting XI hard to come by due to what Conor Washington and Jamie Mackie bring to the team.

Smith, however, is remaining upbeat.

Speaking to Get West London, he said: "It’s frustrating because all strikers want to be playing but I’m sure I’ll be given plenty more opportunities as the season progresses to stake my claim for the number one spot.

"Conor and Jamie have done really well starting together and certainly set the tempo for the team, so it’s up to me to take these opportunities when I’m given them."

Ian Holloway has made it clear that Mackie and Washington are his preferred front two, but Smith says that he knows the manager still has faith in him to do a job.

He said: "I just need to keep going really. Obviously the thing we have to factor in is that Conor , Jamie, (Idrissa) Sylla and I all bring different skill-sets to the team.

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"My skill-set is very different to the other three so it’s a case of what that brings to the team as a whole. I can only do it when called upon, and I know the manager has belief in me, so as and when required I can hopefully make it a more regular occurance."

On current form, many would argue that the 28-year-old is deserving of a starting spot, but Smith says there is still plenty of time to stake his claim.

He said: "Three goals in two starts is pleasing. For me the season is just getting going. Once the season starts the games come thick and fast through October, November and December and then once the league starts to take shape you can make more of an assessment on how things are going."