Former Rangers skipper Lee Wallace’s long wait for a senior start was finally ended on Saturday afternoon by QPR manager Mark Warburton.
The 32-year-old’s last inclusion in a starting XI came way back on 15 September 2017 for the Gers in a Premiership clash against Partick Thistle [Soccerbase]. He only lasted 12 minutes that day, sustaining an injury that would end his season.
Since then, an off-field dispute whilst still at Ibrox and a hip problem have restricted him to a handful of cameo outings.
After joining up with former Gers boss Warburton at Loftus Road in the summer, the hip injury flared up again, meaning he’s been battling for fitness for months.
Having been an unused substitute on multiple occasions recently, though, he was finally given a chance to impress in a Championship fixture against EFL giants Leeds United.
Unfortunately for Wallace, the result didn’t go according to plan, as a first-half goal from Tyler Roberts and a late second from Jack Harrison was enough to secure all three points for the hosts. The veteran was also booked in the second-half.
Yet, a huge positive can still be taken by the fact that he made it through 90 minutes unscathed. The Scotland international must have had some tough times during his long spells out of action and it’s great to see him back on the pitch.
Former Rangers goalkeeper Liam Kelly also joined QPR in the summer, and he is now first choice for The Rs between the sticks.