Manager Mark Warburton hailed Ilias Chair’s instant impact off the bench after the Moroccan midfielder scored the winner in QPR’s 2-1 victory over Derby County.

With 15 minutes remaining, a stray pass from former England star Wayne Rooney was picked up by Eberechi Eze in his own half.

Eze took on two Derby players before slotting in Chair who beat Ben Hamer with a smart finish at the near post as QPR extended their unbeaten run to four matches.

“Ilias came on when we needed energy,” said Warburton whose side climbed to 12th position in the Championship.

“The boys were tired from a big effort at the weekend at Forest and games are coming thick and fast.

“Ilias looked bright, lively and got the goal to secure a very important three points for us so I’m delighted for him and for the fans of course.

“The bench was strong, which is always a good position to be in. It’s nice to look behind you and know you have choices.”

Warburton was also impressed with the finish from captain Grant Hall who gave QPR lead with a wonderful strike from the edge of the area that went in off the crossbar.

“It was a difficult finish by anyone’s standard, he did exceptionally well,” Warburton said.

“It was brave to take the shot on and trust your technique, a really important goal for us, all over the park some big performances against a strong opposition.”

Shortly after going ahead, the hard work was undone when an out-swinging corner was met beautifully by Martin Waghorn as he guided the ball into the bottom corner.

But QPR secured all three points thanks to Chair’s effort and Warburton was pleased his side were able to keep Derby County’s attack – that featured Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer Rooney – quiet.

“We know their frontline is exceptionally strong when you look at (Jack) Marriot and (Chris) Martin with (Tom) Lawrence from the left, Waghorn from the right and Rooney just behind,” Warburton said.

“We know they pose a real high quality, there’s not many better front-lines in the division for sure.

“Overall, a massive three points and now we look forward to Birmingham.”