Charlie Austin makes QPR return permanent
The 31-year-old is back for a second spell in west London.
Your support helps us to tell the story
This election is still a dead heat, according to most polls. In a fight with such wafer-thin margins, we need reporters on the ground talking to the people Trump and Harris are courting. Your support allows us to keep sending journalists to the story.
The Independent is trusted by 27 million Americans from across the entire political spectrum every month. Unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock you out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. But quality journalism must still be paid for.
Help us keep bring these critical stories to light. Your support makes all the difference.
Charlie Austin has signed a two-year deal with QPR following a successful loan spell with the Sky Bet Championship club.
Austin scored eight goals in 19 appearances for the R’s in the second half of last season, helping them to finish ninth in the table.
“I am really pleased to get it done and to be able to continue my journey here,” said the 31-year-old forward, who previously made 82 appearances for QPR before joining Southampton in January 2016.
“With the way we finished the season – and how I feel about the club hasn’t changed – I wanted to be part of it and as soon as the opportunity was available I wanted to get this done as soon as possible.
“I know this is the right move for me and the right move for my family. Where am I happiest? I was going through a period where I wasn’t enjoying my football – I came here and enjoyed it straight away.
“I love everything that the club stands for. It’s a family club and one that I’m suited to.”
QPR manager Mark Warburton added: “I am delighted we have been able to bring Charlie in.
“Everyone saw the impact he had during his loan spell, both on and off the pitch. He has played at the highest level and he knows the standards that are required if you are to be successful.”