Queens Park Rangers defender Conor Masterson has said he's 'very grateful' for the first-team opportunities given to him by boss Mark Warburton of late.
The 21-year-old signed from Liverpool on a free transfer in the summer, but didn't make a single appearance for the R's in 2019.
Warburton had initially intended to loan the Republic of Ireland U21 international out in last month's transfer window, and granted him his first-team debut in the hope of finding him a club.
Starting the heart of the defence against Swansea City in the FA Cup Third Round at the start of last month, Masterson's debut was so impressive that he was given his league debut the next game against Brentford, and has featured in every one of QPR's games since.
Warburton quickly changed his mind about Masterson, and has instead seen Toni Leistner join FC Koln on a loan-deal until the end of the season, with Yoann Barbet soon to return from injury as well.
Speaking to Kilburn Times about his breakthrough after Saturday's 1-0 loss at home to Bristol City, Masterson said:
"They've given me the opportunity of first-team football and I'm just loving it at the moment. I've just been working hard in training, trying my hardest all the time and the gaffer can see that and he's just putting his trust in me and I'm very grateful for that.
"I could have gone out on loan but I'm just grateful for the gaffer and his backroom staff giving me the opportunity and I believe I've taken it now.
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"They're really happy with me and I have to keep going and showing them why. I just want to keep helping the team and giving my all for this club because I love it here."
Masterson arrived with high-expectations. Captain of the Liverpool U18 side during his time there, he'd featured on the bench for Jurgen Klopp's team in both the Champions League and the Premier League but was always going to struggle for first-team action there.
The verdict
QPR have provided a haven for Masterson and although it's taken time for him to get his chance, he's really taken to Championship football and looks like he'll be a top player for QPR for some years to come.
He's commanding, strong in the air and alongside Grant Hall, looks like the best centre-pairing QPR have had in a long time.