Having been confirmed to be leaving Queens Park Rangers this summer, young midfielder Stephen Duke-McKenna is set to test the waters of the free agent market.
Having seemed out of favour at Loftus Road for some time, it comes as no surprise to see the Guyanan international in the club’s future plans, but he has progressed year-on-year. He’s however not quite shown enough for Marti Cifuentes’ liking and will be leaving the club after the expiration of his contract this summer.
Duke-McKenna would make six Championship appearances for the R’s, five of those coming this season. All five of those did however come prior to Cifuentes arrival, and he would spend the second half of the season on loan with Sutton United.
Sutton would end up being relegated to the National League but did improve after the versatile midfielder signed in January. His exploits were however not quite enough to keep them afloat, yet he did at least do himself some justice, displaying sparks of talent.
With two goals and two assists in 16 appearances for the U’s, Duke-McKenna would by no means disgrace himself during his loan spell at Gander Green Lane. He has potentially done enough to earn himself a move to a League Two side and there are rumours that he is being monitored by a fourth tier side.
The South London Press have reported that AFC Wimbledon have checked in with the now free-agent and could be tempted to sign him this summer. Johnnie Jackson’s side would finish the League Two season in 10th and will be looking to improve upon that next term.
Incredibly versatile, Duke-McKenna can play across a number of positions in the midfield and could be quite the asset if able to get a consistent run in the first team. There are some risks attached, potentially his size being a factor but he could be worth a punt, especially as a fee will not be involved.
It’s unlikely that Duke-McKenna would be a starter at Plough Lane but nonetheless, due to his versatility, he could provide important cover across a variety of the midfield positions.
Writer’s View
It doesn’t come as much of a surprise to see Duke-McKenna leave QPR given he spent the second half of the season out on loan but he showed enough potential whilst on loan with Sutton United to potentially warrant himself an EFL move.
Wimbledon may well continue to monitor the 23-year-old throughout the summer and although he might not be their top target, is currently on the shortlist.
Marti Cifuentes will be hoping to integrate more of the youth side into the set up next term and has had a bit of a clear out so far this summer. We’re still waiting on their full retained list which will no doubt give some pointers on the direction in which the club plan to go next term but it’s certainly an exciting time for R’s fans.
