Queens Park Rangers have signed Newcastle United midfielder Jeff Hendrick on loan until the end of the season. The deal was announced late on January transfer deadline day on the club’s official website.
The move really benefits both clubs. At Newcastle, the Republic of international was hardly playing under Eddie Howe and QPR land a new midfielder in the process. Hendrick arrived at St James’ Park in the summer of 2020 for free after being released by Burnley.
Despite not paying a penny, the man brought in by Steve Bruce failed to impress. The only bright moment was his debut for the club when he netted and assisted Callum Wilson in a 2-0 over West Ham United on the opening day.
Hendrick hopes he can land more gametime with QPR
On the same report on QPR’s website, Hendrick admitted he was disappointed with his lack of minutes. He wants minutes and stated, “I wanted to get out, get games and enjoy my football.”
Regardless of his performances for Newcastle, you have to respect him for wanting to focus on getting games. The deal is only until the end of the season, but it could be a great opportunity for him to land a permanent summer move.
If he can find form at Rangers, then you feel QPR would want to sign him on a permanent deal. Alternatively, another Championship or newly promoted team may take a chance on the Irish midfielder.
Securing a loan with QPR will likely have more benefits than his initial loan link
The 30-year-old was linked with Middlesborough near the end of the window, according to TalkSport. Perhaps Boro would look to revisit the deal if he has an impressive showing with QPR.
Hendrick is better off with the move to London. Currently, the Hoops sit in 4th place in the Championship and are pushing for promotion. They’re only two points off second and an automatic promotion spot.
Granted Boro are too in amongst the play-offs. But they could easily slip out. Many teams sit round just outside them and they could easily slip out. Along with Bournemouth, QPR is one of the favourites to win the play-offs. Should Hendrick play a key part in their promotion push, there’s no doubt they’d want to make the deal permanent.
Jeff Hendrick’s desire for game-time has to be respected. It’s allowed a space to open up in Newcastle’s 25 man squad and he wants more than just sitting around doing nothing.
It’s certainly a great opportunity for Hendrick to secure a move in the summer if he performs well. With new owners well to spend lots of cash, there’s no future for Hendrick with the Magpies.
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