Defeat at QPR in February was Rovers’ first of 2021, but the start of contrasting fortunes for the two sides in the remainder of the season.

While Rangers started that last meeting nine points behind Rovers, they finished the season the same number of points ahead of them after an excellent finish to the campaign. That coincided with a disastrous run for Rovers who slid down to 15th, but they meet tonight separated by just one point.

Rangers have won two of the last three meetings at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium, their only victories in the last 19 clashes between the sides, but Mowbray is very wary of what he feels is a much improved QPR side.

“They have some good players, I think their centre backs can control the game with their passing from the back,” he said.

“Ilias Chair is a real talent, Willock is coming to the fore with them now, they have good balance, good athleticism in midfield and with their wing-backs, Dykes is scoring goals at international level and for his club.

“They understand each other, know each other, they are a decent team and have a style of play they’re trying to develop.

“I felt even the home game where we beat them 3-1 they still played pretty well, you could see their style developing.

“I think we’re going to have to be at our best and right at it to get a result tonight but I do think we can.

“I think they have vulnerable areas but are also a very talented team and one we are going to have to play well against.”