Julien Stephan is a fan of Jamie Mackie, the’reminds me’ QPR star.
Paul Smyth of QPR has already surpassed his goal total from the previous season with two goals in eight Championship outings this season. Smyth has benefited greatly from the Frenchman’s arrival at Loftus Road, as the R’s have started well under Julien Stephan.
The Northern Irishman rejoined the R’s in 2023 after departing for Leyton Orient in 2021, and under Marti Cifuentes and now Stephan, he established himself as a vital member of the team. When asked if any of the R’s players had any traits with historical figures or cult heroes, Football League World’s QPR Fan Pundit Louis Moir immediately brought up Smyth, along with a figure associated with the team’s Premier League days. “I think one player who reminds me in a certain way of a cult hero is Paul Smyth – compared with Jamie Mackie,” stated Louis..
Mackie played with the West London club from 2010 to 2013, scoring 18 goals in 85 games before departing at the end of the 2012–13 campaign since the R was relegated. The 2011–12 season would see seven of these goals, as QPR secured their place in the Premier League for the first time since 1995. Louis was eager to point out the parallels between Smyth and the former striker. “Mackie didn’t have the pace that Smyth has, but they were both players that didn’t necessarily put up big numbers, but players that chip in with the odd goal and assist, and just love playing for the club.”
“Jamie Mackie returned to QPR for a second stint, just like Paul Smyth did,” Louis continued. He is a player who doesn’t conceal, and it is obvious that he enjoys playing for QPR. Although their skill level isn’t the best—I’ve been a little critical of Smyth’s stats—he has contributed in the games he has played this season. “Mackie was a threat with his pushing, contributed goals, and always gave it his best. Smyth reminds me a little bit of Mackie, especially during his initial stint. When QPR completed the agreement that resulted in Julien Stephan joining the team, they acquired one of the summer’s top hires.
In the past, the Frenchman led Strasbourg to sixth place and won the Coupe de France with Rennes. He has also shown himself to be an excellent talent development, as evidenced by the success of players like Jeremy Doku, Raphinha, and Eduardo Camavinga under his tutelage. With players like Smyth, Steve Cook, and Isaac Hayden, his QPRside appears to have a great balance between making an impact and having reliable professionals in the early stages of the current campaign.
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