Ainsworth insists Willocks is in his plans

Gareth Ainsworth has insisted that he wants to keep Chris Willock at QPR.

Willock was brought on as a stoppage-time substitute against Watford and did not play in Rangers’ two subsequent matches.

He is, though, expected to be involved in Saturday’s home match against Ipswich.

West London Sport revealed following the 4-0 thrashing at Watford that boss Ainsworth was going to ditch his direct style of play and revert to more of a passing game based on utilising Willock and Ilias Chair.

However, Willock picked up a knock in training on the eve of last weekend’s win at Cardiff and did not feature in the game.

His absence fuelled speculation that he could be on his way out of the club.

But Ainsworth said: “He’s a player who is definitely in my plans.

“I want to keep the best players at this club and Chris Willock is definitely in that category.

“All the rumours that have been on Twitter can be put to bed. Hopefully he’ll play some part for us on Saturday.”

Middlesbrough and more recently Bristol City have been linked with Willock, who has a year remaining on his contract.

There has so far been no sign of any concrete interest in Willock but there has long been an expectation at Rangers that Chair will attract offers before the transfer window closes.