John Gregory refused to blame his players after the 5-1 defeat against high-flying West Bromwich Albion.

Speaking moments after the final whistle at The Hawthorns, Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk: "I'll protect my boys until the end of the earth.

"I don't worry about my own position.

"We'll get back on the training ground tomorrow morning and regroup for Wednesday."

Gregory added: "I suppose the only positive to take is the fact we can put the wrongs of this display to right in three days time.

"Sheffield Wednesday lost a number of games on the bounce and have won their last two and it can have a huge impact, both on the players and the league table.

"Three points against Colchester will make a huge difference."

Gregory praised the performance of West Brom, adding: "It was an extremely difficult afternoon.

"The Baggies are an exceptional side and today, they kept the ball extremely well throughout the 90 minutes.

"The Albion front two were very clever and caused us all sorts of problems."