We continue our analysis of the first team with a look at the contenders for one of the most vital areas, the centre of defence, and look at whether improvements are needed.

Grant Hall

The club's player of the year on 2015/16 got off to a rocky start at the beginning of last season.

With inconsistency aligning with the erratic nature of QPR's results, it took him a while to grow into the season.

But the 25-year-old reaped the benefits of Ian Holloway's change in strategy which saw Hall become one of the club's more impressive players through the season. Despite a few injury issues, Hall is almost certain to play a big part in the shape of the team moving into the new season.

Nedum Onuoha

An ever-present last season and a player who you can't help but feel has been made something a scapegoat over the season. Despite not having a great year, Onuoha has been nowhere near as bad as what some would have you believe. Granted, his ability with the ball at his feet is questionable, but as an out-and-out defender, he is one of the best currently at the club.

Another question-mark from the stand has been his leadership, but what can't be argued is his level of experience and this is certain to be crucial as Ian Holloway looks to rebuild his squad.

For me, it would be a big mistake to dispose of his services this summer.

Joel Lynch

It's been a disappointing first season at the club for Joel Lynch. Brought in as direct replacement for Clint Hill, it was planned that Lynch would be more reliable than the veteran defender over the course of a long season, but that hasn't been the case.

Lynch made 31 appearances for the club, but for the most part was underwhelming. A player who is likely to get another chance next season, it's vital that the defender gets off to a good start next year if he is to be a success in West London.

Steven Caulker

A delicate matter. I'm not in the business of commenting on an individuals' battles away from the field of play, but it's safe to say something needs to be sorted. Caulker is the highest paid player on the books, and based on the club's current positioning, he isn't a player we can afford to carry.

The ideal solution for the talented defender would be offer him a route back into the team and give him a chance to rebuild his career. If this can't be done, from a professional point of view the club would be better off acting and using that giant chunk of the wage budget on two or three first team players.

Transfer movement?

It's fundamental that the club improves the central defence. With the defence being as shaky as it was at times last season, it's vital that the defence offers more consistency going into the new season. It's likely the club will bring in at least one new defender this summer, and if they can settle and help the existing defenders to find their form next season, it will go a long way to firing the team up the league table.