Queens Park Rangers are hoping to bring in former striker Chris Martin this month once his short-term deal expires at Bristol Rovers, according to The Mirror.
The Championship side have struggled in front of goal this season and are the division’s joint-lowest scorers alongside Sheffield Wednesday. As a result, it is no surprise to see the Hoops in the midst of a relegation battle, with them currently 23rd in the table and four points from safety.
The departure of Gareth Ainsworth in October saw Marti Cifuentes appointed shortly after and QPR enjoyed a temporary upturn in form, losing just one of his first seven games in charge. However, they have picked up just one point from their last five league outings and exited the FA Cup at the hands of Bournemouth last weekend.
Lyndon is currently the club’s top goalscorer this season with four and a new attacker is high on the agenda for this month. Goals are crucial to their survival hopes, and it is said that they may return to a familiar face in order to solve their problems in front of goal.
35-year-old Chris Martin is currently plying his trade in League One having signed for Bristol Rovers on a short-term deal in September. It was his release from the second tier outfit at the end of last season which saw the veteran available as a free agent and his time at the Memorial Stadium has been a success, scoring eight times in 19 appearances, including four in his last two league games.
His current deal will expire this month and Rovers are keen to retain his services, but The Mirror claim that QPR would like to bring him back to West London. Interestingly, his arrival at Loftus Road came following his departure from Bristol City, with the report also claiming the Robins are keen on a reunion to aid their play-off push.
Aside from the Championship duo, it is said that an unnamed team challenging for promotion in League One are also considering making a swoop.
Speaking to Bristol Live last month, the former Scotland international addressed the situation, saying:
“It (the situation) hasn’t changed. Obviously, a little bit happier tonight after getting the couple of goals(against Charlton Athletic).
“I think that helps as a striker with your situation. My contract ends – I’m not even sure. The 20-something of January, whenever it was. I actually can’t remember the exact date but nothing’s changed. No words. I continue to do the job and see what happens.”
For the time being, Martin remains a Bristol Rovers player and is expected to be involved when the Gas travel to Barnsley on Saturday.
Writer’s View
QPR are in a desperate situation as they fight for survival and their major issue is goals. Whereas Martin would not be someone they could solely rely on, he is a tried and tested option that could prove to be the difference come May.
On the flip side, Bristol City will feel that they have an excellent chance of finishing in the top six and achieving their long-term ambition of Premier League football. The striker hit 17 goals in 95 appearances at Ashton Gate before his sudden departure last year and could make an impact in tight games. Bristol Rovers however, will be hoping they can convince the player to stay put for the remainder of the campaign.
Head of Writing
