IAIN Dowie's Oldham take on promotion rivals QPR - who sacked him from the coach's job at Loftus Road. But he has nothing but admiration for the London outfit.

He explained: "They are the original sleeping giants and, with all respect, should not be in this division.

"They are a big club and they deserve to be playing at a much higher level."

He added: "It is a massive game and they are a resilient side as well as being difficult to break down."

Dowie has again to wrestle wih bans and injuries. Latics will be without suspended duo Fitz Hall and marksman David Eyres. Midfielder Matty Appleby is also out with a recurrence of a hip problem.

LAST SEASON: Oldham 1 QPR 0.

KEY OPPONENT: Kevin Gallen, top scorer with 12 goals

PREDICTION: Oldham 2 QPR 1. Tweet