Isaac Hayden is out to keep QPR in the Championship after a ‘disastrous’ injury-hit year at Norwich City, ahead of his Loftus Road reunion with the Canaries.

The 28-year-old holding midfielder only made nine starts in a season long spell at Carow Road blighted by knee injuries, after a previous knee lay-off at parent club Newcastle.

Hayden insists he is fighting fit following a stint at Standard Liege before Christmas that ended abruptly, amid reports of alleged unpaid wages.

The Magpies’ midfielder started both Norwich league games against QPR last season, and is set for his home bow on Saturday following a deadline day loan switch.

“Last year was a disastrous one for me in terms of injuries. I had back-to-back ones, which is never nice, but I got over that towards the end of last season and then coming into pre-season and this season I have been fully fit and healthy,” he said. “In football you are always trying to prove things to yourself. I am not one for proving other people wrong or right.

"Can I play at the highest level possible, and can I improve every day, and be the best player I can? The rest takes care of itself.  

“I feel very happy, very pleased to be joining QPR. I am just delighted to get it over the line.

"It is obvious to see the position the club are in at the moment, but it is a challenge that I feel I can add some value to, on and off the pitch.”

Hayden made a second half debut appearance in Saturday's 1-0 Championship win at Blackburn, and was linked with Sheffield Wednesday, Plymouth and Birmingham before signing up for a relegation tussle in west London.

“You can take the easy option in life and do things the easy way or you can take a challenge on and go head first into it,” he said, speaking in first club interview at QPR. “Everyone knows what the Championship is like but if we can get a consistent run of performances, hopefully the points will come.

“I have looked at the squad and there are some really good players in it. There is definitely enough there but it is about us proving that on a matchday when it counts.

“It needs grit, determination, heart and accountability. That’s a big one for me, everyone has to be accountable for their own performances, and do everything they can to help the team and improve the team, whether you are a young lad that hasn’t played before or a senior pro.

"I’m really excited. I like a challenge, I like to contribute and that is what I have come here to do.”