QPR Confirm Release Of Six Players At Conclusion Of 2021-22 Season

QPR have announced that six players will be released at the conclusion of the 2021-22 season.

Having previously played for QPR between 2013-16, Charlie Austin headlines the six departures after failing to meet the appearance criteria needed to activate the second year of his two-year contract, which he signed last summer after spending the second half of 2020-21 on loan from West Brom.

Austin has in total scored 63 goals in 148 appearances across his two stints playing for QPR.

Dom Ball and Lee Wallace will also leave the club after three seasons in West London, with Ball’s exit coming after he netted just three goals in 97 appearances, whilst Wallace has scored twice in 63 appearances.

QPR’s goalkeeping trio of Dillon Barnes, David Marshall and Kieren Westwood will all be released at end of season, leaving Seny Dieng, Jordan Archer, Murphy Mahoney and Joe Walsh amongst the club’s goalkeepers for next season.

Barnes’ departure comes after he failed to make a single appearance for the Hoops in three seasons amidst loans away at Hibernian, Burton Albion, Yeovil Town and Aldershot.

Marshall joined QPR on a short-term contract in January until the end of this season but his contract won’t be renewed, despite the Scotland international making 12 appearances across Championship and FA Cup.

Westwood meanwhile arrived at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium in mid-March amidst a serious injury crisis, which saw Archer, Dieng, Marshall and Walsh all ruled out through injury and has managed six appearances in QPR’s last eight league matches.

QPR Chief Executive Officer, Lees Hoos paid tribute to all six departing players as he commented: “We would like to thank the departing players for their hard work and efforts during their time with the club.”

Hoos in particular held high praise for Austin’s impact during his second stint at the club as he described the return of the 32 year-old striker as “the catalyst for an incredible turnaround” in form amidst showing “dedication and determination” in helping the club improve on and off the pitch.

On Austin’s leadership qualities, Hoos added: “His leadership has been enormous for the development of the squad, while him being named the club’s Men’s Community Champion demonstrates how much importance he placed on his role with the fans and in the local area.”

Hoos also acknowledged the “commitment and desire” of Ball and Wallace throughout their time at the club to help the team progress forward.

QPR are continuing contract discussions with Albert Adomah, Yoann Barbet, Moses Odubajo, Charlie Owens and Olamide Shodipo.