QUEENS PARK RANGERS have to beat Manchester City in today’s lunchtime kick-off to stay in the Premier League.

But, their preparations have been dealt a considerable blow with the news that midfielder Sandro is unavailable due to visa problems.

The Sunday Mirror published an article today that speculated the Brazilian would be forced to miss the clash at the Etihad Stadium because of issues surrounding the expiry date of his UK work permit.

The 26 year-old has been involved in English football since he joined Tottenham from Internacional in March 2010. He moved to Loftus Road at the start of this campaign for £6m and has made 17 league starts, scoring once.

QPR today issued the following statement on their official website:

In response to an article which was published by today’s Sunday Mirror, the club can confirm it was informed by the Home Office on Thursday 7 May that there is an issue with Sandro’s UK residency visa.”The club are working with Sandro and the Home Office to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. While this is ongoing, the club have been advised not to select Sandro for match involvement.

“The club will be making no further comment at this time.”

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