QPR boss Paulo Sousa has confirmed leading goalscorer Dexter Blackstock was loaned to Nottingham Forest without his knowledge.

Blackstock has hit 12 goals for Rangers this season and was badly missed as the west Londoners' faint play-off hopes took another dent with a goalless draw at home to Crystal Palace yesterday.

Sousa was informed only by sporting director Gianni Paladini that Blackstock was joining Forest last week – a decision apparently made by owner Flavio Briatore.

It left Sousa with young Italian Samuel Di Carmine as his only fully-fit striker against Palace – and the Portuguese coach's frustration boiled over when he was sent to the stands just before half-time.

"I gave the players two days off after the Bristol City game and when I came back Mr Paladini told me he had an agreement (for Blackstock) to go on loan," said Sousa.

"It is a decision for the board and only they can answer it. I'm not frustrated, I said from the first day I have to adapt and try to do my best with the players I have."