Jim Heaps Praise On Returning Connolly

Jim Magilton has been quick to praise defender Matthew Connolly who made a premature return from glandular fever against Sheffield Wednesday.

Connolly was a surprising addition to the match-day squad as Rangers travelled to Hillsborough as was called into action quicker then anticipated.

When Fitz Hall went down with injury in the first half, the former Arsenal youngster was called into action from the bench, and didn`t disappoint.

It was like Matt had never been away as he struck up a partnership with Kaspars Gorkss and the rest of the Rangers rearguard.

Magilton spoke to QPR.co.uk, praising the defensive work of the returning defender.

'It was fantastic to have him back,' Jim said.

'I think he probably travelled up there not expecting to be involved, but we had every intention of naming him in the matchday squad.

'He's looked sharp in training despite being out for such a long time, so we had no hesitation in putting him on when Fitz (Hall) went down injured.'

Despite his young age, Connolly has impressed R`s fans immensely with a string of excellent displays since joining from Arsenal in 2008.

Magilton was keen to stress the great versatility of the defender, with an ability that belies his young age.

Jim continued: 'To perform as well as he did, especially when you consider how long he's been out for, was magnificent for him and the Football Club.

'He has the potential to be a fantastic defender.

'People forget that he's still a young man. He's only 22, but he's got a very bright future ahead of him.'

Indeed it was Connolly that denied Magilton`s Ipswich Town a win under Luigi De Canio in 2008 in controversial circumstances. Not only clearing a effort away from behind the line, but also with his hand to keep the game at stalemate.

Connolly has made 65 appearances for Rangers and hasn`t played in a defeat so far this season in five appearances.




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