Queens Park Rangers have decided to reject multiple approaches for centre-back Conor Masterson, according to an update from West London Sport.

The R's have adapted a flat back four going into this campaign with Rob Dickie starting alongside Jake Clarke-Salter at Ewood Park last weekend, leaving Jimmy Dunne to sit on the bench despite his impressive performances last season.

This doesn't exactly bode well for Masterson who will be hoping to get a considerable amount of game time under his belt this term if he is to remain in the English capital, something he may not get if manager Michael Beale sticks with a back four.

However, the former Aston Villa head coach has revealed that he wants to play with a back three at some point this term and this could potentially open up more opportunities for the former Republic of Ireland youth international.

Although he was sent out on loan to Cambridge United and Gillingham last term, Dion Sanderson's departure on the expiration of his loan spell has opened up a first-team spot for Masterson with another central defender yet to arrive at Loftus Road.

And Beale is clear on the 23-year-old's immediate future at the second tier as the manager spoke ahead of this weekend's tie against Middlesbrough.

He said: "At some stage I will play with a back three, and therefore I need four and five (centre-backs) in the building.

"I’ve known Conor since Liverpool. There’s been interest in Conor but I want to keep Conor in and around the squad.

"The same with Joe Gubbins – he’s a player that I like a lot. He’s got a terrific left foot and I think that every day he trains alongside Jake, Rob and Jimmy will nudge him on."

The Verdict:

With no other players coming in at this stage to bolster their backline, this decision is a no-brainer considering Beale has had the chance to work with the likes of him and Joe Gubbins throughout pre-season.

The 41-year-old, therefore, should be confident about bringing the duo into the starting lineup if he feels they are good enough, with Masterson needing to assert himself as a key first-teamer sooner rather than rate now he's 23.

Just one or two injuries could provide the Irishman with a real chance to shine and with the defender yet to make a senior appearance for his nation, despite appearing at a youth international level for several age groups, that chance to force his way into Stephen Kenny's thoughts will provide him with extra motivation to do well.

He will have a big task on his hands if he is to force his way past the likes of Dickie, Clarke-Salter and Dunne though - and may have to work on his ball-playing skills to give him a real edge over others.

With the 23-year-old confirmed to be staying at the club though, that certainty should help the defender to concentrate on on-field matters.