Queens Park Rangers' injury issues have deepened with three key players ruled out for the next month. Manager Julien Stephan confirmed that Tariq Lamptey, Nicolas Madsen and Rumarn Burrell will miss the club's next four fixtures.

Lamptey, the 26-year-old full-back, remains sidelined with an ankle problem that has already seen him miss four of the last five matches. Midfielder Madsen, last season's Player of the Season, felt a problem towards the end of the 4-1 win over Derby County on October 14, a game in which he scored a penalty and provided an assist. A scan has confirmed he requires a spell of three to four weeks out. Striker Burrell has been absent for a month after picking up an injury while on international duty with Jamaica.

Matches missed

The trio will be unavailable for Saturday's home game against Swansea City, the visit to Southampton, and home clashes with Burnley and Lincoln City. This compounds a difficult period for QPR, who have lost their last two matches, including a 3-0 defeat at Birmingham City last Friday. They currently sit 18th in the league table.

Stephan provided a specific update on the returning Karamoko Dembele. "If the week is okay, perhaps he could be available for Saturday, for a very short playing time," the manager said. Dembele played 45 minutes for the development side on Sunday.

Defensive reshuffle

The absences force a reshuffle at right-back, where Kealey Adamson is now the only fit specialist option. Dennis Cirkin is available again following suspension, while Boy Kemper has impressed in his recent appearances. In attack, options include Alfie Lloyd and Justin Obikwu for the upcoming visit of Lincoln City.

There was better news regarding defender Richard Kone, who has been passed fit after going off late in the Birmingham defeat. Ilias Chair, however, remains unavailable for the Swansea fixture and has not played for six weeks. The most severe long-term blow is to Amadou Mbengue, who suffered a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament injury. The full extent of the club's injury list is a significant concern.

Queens Park Rangers host Swansea City this Saturday, October 24, looking to end a winless run. Their next fixture, against Southampton, is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28.

Background and full detail: bbc.co.uk