PAUL Gerrard will be in goal for United at Loftus Road tonight (7.45) after the Everton goalkeeper's loan was extended to a third month yesterday.

Gerrard will be able to play up until Easter Saturday and after that, Swedish goalkeeper Paul Lundin is likely to take over.

After returning to Sweden at the end of last week, Lundin was back at the Manor yesterday to put his name to an 18-month contract.

"Considering we had to sell our No 1 keeper, I'm delighted to have signed two goalkeepers in one day," Shotton said.

"I've been able to sign Paul Gerrard on another month's loan - he's been outstanding while he's been with us - and Paul Lundin on an 18-month contract.

"We feel Paul Lundin will be a very capable deputy when Paul Gerrard has to go back."

There was an injury scare for United in training yesterday, with Paul Powell turning an ankle. He is expected still to play, but it is the one position the U's do not have proper cover for and if he has to drop out, it might mean right-sided Christophe Remy having to fill in at left back. Remy has recovered from a calf injury.

"It's a big game for us and one where form goes out of the window, because there's likely to be so much pressure on," said Harrison.

After going on a good run when Gerry Francis took over, Rangers haven't won in seven matches this year, although they do keep drawing.

There are still big financial troubles at Loftus Road and even after the £1.5m sale of striker Mike Sheron to Barnsley, owner Chris Wright has just had to put in £4m of his own cash to keep the club afloat.

QPR have finally reached settlement to allow Vinnie Jones to leave on a free transfer and it's expected that they will have to sell again before the end of the season.

Francis is in no doubt about the importance of the Oxford match.

"It's a huge game for both clubs and we have to look to win. As Oxford are fighting for their lives as well, we must look to get three points which will hopefully start us on another run."

Defender Danny Maddix is available again after suspension but is rated doubtful because of a knee injury.

Francis is likely to keep by the side which drew 0-0 at Stockport which will mean another start for Leon Jeanne, an 18-year-old who looks about 14 but leaves opponents standing with his lightning pace.

Story date: Wednesday 03 March

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