Why QPR's defeat to Brentford in the Carabao Cup second round could be a blessing in disguise ahead of Burton Albion clash

It was a torrid night at Loftus Road four weeks ago as the Hoops were taken apart by west London rivals Brentford.

The 4-1 result left a bitter taste in the mouths of those at QPR, with many seeing it as an opportunity missed, with a place in the Carabao Cup third round up for grabs, and against a team who in my opinion were entirely beatable; particularly in their current slump of form.

But fast-forward a month and the opportunity for Ian Holloway's men to have a midweek night off may be exactly what the doctor ordered.

There's no shying away from the number of injuries which QPR are combating at present, with Nedum Onuoha the latest addition to a list of casualties including the likes of James Perch, Grant Hall, Joel Lynch and Jordan Cousins.

In addition to this the Hoops were without Conor Washington and Josh Scowen against Middlesbrough, although it's thought that they will be fit to return for the Hoops against Burton Albion on Saturday.

But Ollie's men are undoubtedly being stretched, and with limited numbers and a relentless schedule of fixtures, it's no wonder that the club have felt the strain of injuries.

It's not an excuse, as every club in the Football League has to deal with the same hectic schedule, but while other teams are competing in the newly-named Carabao Cup this evening, the Hoops squad are able to enjoy a much-needed rest.

As well as Washington and Scowen, the likes of Luke Freeman and Massimo Luongo will also be pleased for a break, after playing every league game so far, while Jack Robinson will be keen for a break after enjoying his busiest spell of games in a long time after his injury woes.

While it's a shame that QPR won't have the opportunity to progress in the cup, it could be a huge plus to have an evening off, with Saturday's opponents Burton Albion facing a tough test against Manchester United tomorrow evening.

It's a game of fine margins, and as well as giving Holloway's squad a chance to recover from any niggles, the extra days of rest could prove to be the difference in the Championship clash.