QPR boss Marti Cifuentes praised his players’ desire after his January window signings helped earn a draw against the Canaries.

Former Norwich loan player Isaac Hayden and Joe Hodge both started while Michael Frey, who scored the equaliser, and Lucas Andersen, who set it up, both came on as subs. That was in contrast to Norwich boss David Wagner, who decided to keep his only January signing, Sydney van Hooijdonk, on the bench.

“I think a draw was a fair reflection of the game,” Cifuentes said.

“We did a lot of good things against a very good team and I want to praise the effort of the guys and their attitude.

“Usually, I am more focused on the tactical parts. Today we had some very good periods but the desire this team is showing in every game to try and chase the victory until the end, together with the supporters, is very strong right now.”

Andersen provided a brilliant delivery for Frey to sweep home the leveller, and Cifuentes said: “I am very happy with the impact of the new players. It was a very good transfer window for us. Firstly, because those players showed a desire and commitment to play for us. Secondly, because they are good players.

“Now, it is about getting the best out of them. Isaac played a very good game, Lucas made a fantastic assist for Frey, a fantastic touch and a fantastic goal. Joey again showed his quality, against Blackburn and again today.

“We need to be patient with them because I think they will need a couple more weeks to show their best because they are coming from different situations.

“I don’t want anybody to now expect they will be our saviours, but they are coming to help and that is the most important thing.”

The draw moved QPR to within two points of safety. A victory on Wednesday night at Stoke City would see them move out of the bottom three for the first time since September.

“We need to keep pushing and we need to keep believing,” Cifuentes added. “Nobody in this league will give you anything, you have to fight for your margins.

“In that sense, it is true we have been playing well in many games and we have a feeling that we could have collected more points, but I am always focused on the performance.”