QPR first team star opens up on 'devastating' injury

QPR star and Scotland international Lyndon Dykes has admitted that he is 'devastated' after suffering a training ground injury that will keep him out of Euro 2024 this summer.

The 28-year-old had been due to represent his nation in Germany despite underwhelming form in front of goal at club level last season. However, Dykes suffered an injury in training that has ruled him out of playing in the competition.

The striker is now on the road to recovery and explained his injury in more detail to BBC Radio Scotland, admitting 'it wasn't a crazy one but just annoying enough to miss the tournament'.

He said: "It's been really tough for me and I tried my best to make it, but I went to see the Scotland medical team and they ruled me out and that was that.

"No-one was near me and it was off a cross and I sort of lunged and my studs got caught in the grass. My body kept going forward and my leg just stopped, so at first we were very worried about my knee because it was a very awkward fall. A few of us, myself included, we heard a cracking sound, which is not pleasant."

Dykes went on to explain that it turned out that damage had been sustained to the ankle. While that is still enough to rule the player out of the Euros, it is expected to be a less serious injury than a knee problem which should see Dykes fit again for the upcoming Championship campaign at Loftus Road.

He added: "It wasn't very pleasant and very unfortunate. We were worried about my knee and you would be out for a long time, so I took the positive out of it.

"I've had my wife and kids around me, looking after me. It's been tough, but I've dealt with it and I just want to support the boys as much as I can."

Dykes has been given permission by QPR to continue his rehabilitation abroad so that he can watch Scotland in Germany and continue his recovery.

The Scotsman made 43 appearances in all competitions for the R's this season, featuring in all but five of the side's Championship outings. Dykes bagged seven goals across the season but netted just three league goals since 2024.

Dykes penned a new contract with the club last summer to keep him at Loftus Road until 2026 but has admitted there is some transfer interest in his services. Speaking in March, he told Football League World: "There is interest sometimes, there is interest here and there, but at this moment in time I’m a QPR player and I’m focused on making sure this season we do not go down.”