Steve McClaren's QPR side have emerged as the surprise promotion candidates this season, which will come as a huge shock to their fellow Championship clubs. 

The Hoops are currently sat 10th in the table and are just two points adrift of a play-off spot, which will get QPR fans dreaming of a return to the Premier League.

A number of loanees arrived at the club towards the end of the summer transfer window and they have led from the front and earned McClaren's side vital points to fire them up the table.

One player who was shipped out as a result of the fierce competition for places in the QPR squad was Ryan Manning.

The midfielder was loaned out to Rotherham and has impressed so far in his loan spell with the relegation threatened Millers.

With his recent good form, McClaren has faced questions about a potential recall to the QPR side for the Irishman.

When asked in a recent press conference if there's a chance that QPR will recall Manning in January, McClaren told Football London: "Certainly.

"I know he's enjoying playing and he's progressing and getting that experience. It's definitely not out of the question that Ryan might come back and that would also depend on him. So nearer the time we'll have that conversation."

McClaren added: "Ryan is a player that I really like."

The QPR boss admitted that it was tricky to fit him into the QPR side with a number of players staking a claim for a place in the starting XI, but he is pleased with the progress the midfielder has made this season.

"It was difficult for him to get regular games.

"He's getting that now which is vital experience and I said to Ryan when he left 'this is short term; you're a future QPR player - go and get some experience and when you come back you'll be better for it'."

Manning will be hoping to impress for Rotherham this weekend when they take on Sheffield United in what is likely to be their toughest fixture of the season so far.

The Verdict

McClaren's comments don't come as a surprise, especially given that Manning has been the star player for Rotherham this season as they battle relegation.

He has shown that he has a clinical eye for goal and creativity that can unlock defences with ease, and that is the sort of player that McClaren will need in his side going forward this season.

With speculation mounting about the future of Luke Freeman in January, Manning could be the perfect replacement for the midfielder if he is to leave the Hoops when the transfer window reopens.

Thoughts? Let us know!