Australia midfielder Massimo Luongo will be rested from the final two games of the Championship season by QPR in an unusual boost for the Socceroos ahead of the 2018 World Cup.
QPR boss Ian Holloway explained that the 25-year-old, who has been linked with Aston Villa and Crystal Palace, will take early leave with a view to being fresh for the 2018-19 season.
Luongo is expected to be part of Australia's 23-man 2018 World Cup squad, meaning he'll have a limited off-season.
"Mass is set to go to the World Cup with Australia, which is brilliant for him and brilliant for QPR," Holloway told the club website.
"I can't tell you how proud I'll be to see a Rangers player playing on the biggest stage of them all this summer.
After speaking to the manager and club, we have decided to end my season now and for me to recharge in preparation for the WC. This season has had its ups and downs but would like to thank all the @QPRFC fans for their continued support. See you next season! pic.twitter.com/KJyEvq7VYd
— Massimo Luongo (@MassLuongo) April 26, 2018
"We've had to think a bit long-term with this one because our priority is his health and well-being ahead of next season.
"With that in mind - and to ensure he's back up-and-running as quickly as possible in pre-season - we've given him a couple of weeks off to rest-up ahead of him meeting up with the Socceroos, which will, in turn, allow us to get him back quicker than normal after the World Cup.
"At the same time, it will allow me to have a look at some of our younger midfielders in the last two matches of the season, so it's a win-win from that point of view."
Luongo will miss QPR's clash with Birmingham City this weekend, followed by Leeds United on the final day of the season.
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