Steven Pienaar to QPR? Not unrealistic

QPR to beat MK Dons? 2.60 with Paddy Power.

I don’t think anybody doubts that Neil Warnock will be active this month, and don’t surprised if his busy January includes an enquiry into Steven Pienaar’s availability.

The South-African playmaker is completely wasted at White Hart Lane at the moment – in fact, at what point did anybody think he’d be playing more than a back-up role? A classic Harry Redknapp signing; spend money for the sake of it, even when a player doesn’t fit into his team.

Rumour has it that Daniel Levy will hold-out for £5m for the player which, given the guile he could potentially bring to Loftus Road, would be money well-spent. Rangers have had trouble scoring goals this season – only Wigan have scored fewer times – and while not providing a direct and substantial goal-threat, Pienaar would provide Premier League-quality craft in and around the box.

Given his side’s league position, Warnock isn’t going to take risks on players – he wants proven ability, and wants new signings that have a track record of domestic success. There are very few players in England at the moment who would offer as much as Pienaar whilst being as cost-efficient. Just like Manchester City, everybody is aware of Tony Fernandes’ wealth, and clubs will look to exploit that during Rangers’ Winter splurge – trying to prise unavailable players from unwilling clubs will only make the West Londoners more susceptible to that.

I like Steven Pienaar. He’s not the most dynamic player, but he’s elegant, good on the ball, and a decent set-piece taker. This is all entirely speculative, but QPR could do a lot worse than the little South African.