Bignot makes plea to Rangers fans

Bignot was recently installed as QPR captain

Skipper Marcus Bignot has urged QPR fans to turn out in force for the struggling club's remaining home games.

He said: "We've got nine cup finals at Loftus Road. In terms of atmosphere, there's no better place. It's been said many times before, but it's true.

"Other players say when QPR are on the front foot and the ground's rocking, no-one wants to be the away side.

"I know it's expensive and some people might be unhappy for various reasons, but we really need them."

Rangers endured a miserable 2006 and are battling to avoid relegation from the Championship following a series of poor performances.

Price increases have led to a drop in attendances, while a section of fans are unhappy with the way the club has been run since chairman Gianni Paladini took control.

Bignot said: "My message to the fans is that they're entitled to voice their opinion, either at games or by staying away.

All of us - players and fans - have to ask ourselves what we can do at this time for the good of QPR Marcus Bignot

"But what we all want is what's best for Queens Park Rangers and we must come together and put aside any grievances for those nine games."

Last weekend's 2-1 defeat against Hull left Rangers in grave danger of slipping into League One.

John Gregory's side are just four points clear of 21st-placed Barnsley, who they face at the end of January.

Bignot added: "All of us - players and fans - have to ask ourselves what we can do at this time for the good of QPR. And in terms of the fans, it certainly isn't staying away.

"And it's no good players being upset about being picked one week and then not being picked.

606 DEBATE: Your views on Bignot's comments

"My attitude now, as captain, is no different to when I was on the transfer list and out of the side earlier in the season.

"It's not about me or any individual - it's about this club. Everybody's priority now has got to be to keep Queens Park Rangers in the Championship.

"No-one is going to want to come and play us at a Loftus Road that's rocking.

"And from our point of view, it's the same as in any walk of life - you perform better when you're being encouraged.

"QPR fans will never let you down. I know that from the time I've been here. So hopefully we can all now come together and do what we need to do to stay up."