Ryan Manning has been in fantastic form as of late. Ever since moving into a left back role at QPR, the Galway native has turned into one of their most important players.
The player spent the first half of last season on loan at Rotherham, plying well enough that QPR decided to recall him in January. What followed was a few months of sporadic playing time, as Manning found himself in and out of the team.
However, he has enjoyed some fantastic form over the first couple of months of the current campaign. His turn in fortunes has been driven by a change in position, with the former Ireland U21 international spending most of his time at left wing back.
He has registered three assists in 11 Championship appearances, while also scoring in the League Cup. Manning actually tops the club’s charts for chances created, assists, crosses, tackles, possession won, touches, and fouls won.
This has now attracted the attentions of the Premier League.
The Northern Echo are reporting that Newcastle are considering a move for the player in January, as they believe he could be available for a fee of around £3million. Southampton have also been credited with an interest in the Irishman.
Manning's contract expires at the end of the season, although QPR have an option to extend the pact by a further year. At 23-years old and in the best form of his career, now could be the right time to move to the Premier League.
A call-up to the Ireland squad cannot be too far away. Mick McCarthy has name-checked Manning as an option, with Enda Stevens the only left back currently established in the squad. A move to the English top flight would certainly be a boost to his chances.
