Mark Hughes has dismissed the suggestion that Queens Park Rangers’ big-name stars do not have the stomach for a Premier League relegation scrap.
The 48-year-old made 11 summer signings, including the likes of Park Ji-Sung, Esteban Granero, Jose Bosingwa and Júlio Cesar.
But despite the plethora of talent at Loftus Road, the Hoops are still searching for their first Premier League victory, with Hughes’ men languishing at the bottom of the table.
Some QPR supporters have suggested their new signings do not have the necessary appetite for a relegation battle after spending years competing for silverware, but Hughes disagrees.
“Yes, absolutely [they have what it takes in a relegation battle],” said Hughes.
“It goes without saying. They have come from clubs that are used to winning [such as Chelsea and Real Madrid].
“But to stay at clubs like that, you have to have a certain mentality or you don’t last there.
“The fact they played at those clubs tells you they’ve all the attributes and qualities needed to be in a battle such this.”
Hughes is well placed to help QPR’s big names adjust to their change of environment, with the former Wales international swapping Chelsea for Southampton in 1998.
“I had the same experience. Initially, it’s difficult,” he added
“I went from Manchester United, Barcelona, Barcelona and Chelsea to Southampton. We had a shocking start to the season but we turned it around.
“It was a shock to the system because it wasn’t what I was used to but you use the qualities that got you to the top in the first place.”
He continued: “Perhaps it’s their demeanour. They are not extroverted, they are introverted. But I see things every day here in training which doesn’t allow me to doubt them.
“Irrespective of the circumstances, you get the job done because that’s the mentality you have to have to be at a top club.”