Following his appointment as Queens Park Rangers manager, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has issued a warning to clubs that are looking to “pinch” The Hoops’ star striker Charlie Austin in the January transfer window.
Newcastle’s interest in the prolific forward was well-documented over the summer, and the Magpies are reportedly one of many Premier League sides looking to lure the England international away from Loftus Road during the upcoming window
However, Hasselbaink is adamant that Austin will not be sold on the cheap in January, despite the 26-year-old’s contract with the West London club expiring at the end of the season.
Speaking following his official unveiling as QPR boss, Hasselbaink said (as quoted by ITV):
You don’t pinch. He’s not going to be pinched.
“I’m looking forward to working with Charlie, and I’m looking forward to working with everyone else as well.”
Hasselbaink continued to talk about how Austin is a key player for the R’s, but the former Burton Albion manager accepted that no individual is bigger than the team:
“Charlie Austin is a very important individual at this club, but it’s a team game.”
Earlier in the week, QPR’s director of football Les Ferdinand accepted that he couldn’t rule out the possibility of Austin leaving the club if they receive a suitable bid in January.
Speaking to The Express, the legendary Newcastle striker said:
Every player has his price. I wouldn’t want to sit here and say Charlie is definitely staying.
