West Ham number two surprised at QPR new boy’s struggles

Saturday, September 29, 2012
6:25 PM

West Ham assistant manager Neil McDonald is surprised his team will not be coming up against former charge Rob Green in Monday’s trip to QPR but backed the goalkeeper to work his way back into Mark Hughes’ plans.

The 32-year-old moved to the west Londoners at the end of his contract after six years at Upton Park.

Green started QPR’s opening four games but, after a few shaky performances, lost his place to Inter Milan goalkeeper Julio Cesar, who has been an ever-present since the home draw with Chelsea.

The Brazilian is set to start once more against West Ham in Monday’s Barclays Premier League encounter - a game in which McDonald had expected to face the goalkeeper that helped his side to promotion last season.

“Yes, of course (I am surprised) because it is early up in the season,” Sam Allardyce’s assistant said today.

“The two games I have seen them against Spurs and Reading they had Cesar, who seems to be a really, really good goalkeeper even though he let a few in.

“He has made a couple of good saves and he looks comfortable when it is passed back to him.

“It is disappointing for Rob, of course. He was here for a few years and he will fight for his place, no doubt.

“He is very good. He got us promoted last season and his contribution was very, very big, but he wanted to move onto pastures new.

“It hasn’t worked out so far for him but, as with all players that are not in the team, he will have to work hard and keep on banging on the manager’s door saying ‘I’m ready, I’m ready’ and wait for his chance. I am sure he will do it.

“He has moved onto a new club and he has got a fight on his hands to get his place back and I wish him all the best with that.”