QPR need to crush West Bromwich Albion’s defensive rock if they are to claim three points at Loftus Road.

Joleon Lescott moved to the Hawthorns on a free transfer from champions Manchester City in the summer and the Birmingham Mail’s Brian Dick believes it is one of the best pieces of business any Premier League outfit will do this season.

He has picked out the England international as one of his three Baggies stars for the Hoops to keep an eye on this Saturday as Alan Irvine’s out-of-form side come to town for Saturday’s game.

West Bromwich Albion's Craig Gardner celebrates his goal with head coach Alan Irvine
Eye for goal: West Bromwich Albion's Craig Gardner

“He’s West Brom's defensive leader, his belated inclusion following a pre-season injury coincided with an immediate upturn in performances,” Dick said of Lescott.

“As a former Premier League winner with extensive international and Champions League experience he will not be fazed by any of Chelsea's big names.

“Even better he's helped his defensive partner Craig Dawson play the best football of his young career. He’s the rock around which Albion are built.”

Aston Villa defenders Ron Vlaar and Alan Hutton double up in an attempt to stop Saido Berahino of West Bromwich Albion
Tricky customer: Saido Berahino of West Bromwich Albion

West Brom have good assets further up the field and Dick reckons with Craig Dawson in the middle of the park and exciting young striker Saido Berahino up top, the Baggies have a strong spine running through the team.

“Craig Gardner has developed into Albion's midfield conscience since his summer arrival from Sunderland and is almost indispensable at both ends of the pitch,” he added.

“Berahino is still one of his country's leading Premier League goal scorers and he has a habit of producing against the big clubs.”

Follow all the build-up, matchday action and post-game reaction from QPR v West Brom here on GetWestLondon.