Liverpool received a further blow at the heart of their midfield with the straight card shown to Jay Spearing against Fulham, meaning he faces a three-match ban. The 23-year-old looked to have earned his spot as a replacement for the injured Lucas Leiva but an enforced midfield reshuffle may now see Jordan Henderson in his more natural position inside.
Despite his stuttering start to life at Anfield, Andy Carroll could partner Luis Suarez in attack with the success of their partnership a must if Liverpool are to consign their recent lack of goals to the past. For the visitors, Radek Cerny will continue in goal in the long-term absence of Paddy Kenny.
Neil Warnock has been known to favour a back five away from home in the Premier League so far and, given he has few injury worries in that area, could field a strong defensive wall. Heidar Helguson has earned his right to lead the Loftus Road outfit’s attack with six goals in nine Premier League appearances.