Queens Park Rangers manager Neil Warnock played down the possibility of David Beckham joining the club on Thursday but admitted he admired the former England captain as a “fabulous professional.” 

In comments to Malaysian media on Wednesday, Warnock hinted that  QPR owner Tony Fernandes was ready to launch an audacious move for Beckham, whose contract with Los Angeles Galaxy ends this year.

However Warnock sought to quash speculation about a possible move for Beckham on Thursday, saying he had not held any discussions with Fernandes concerning attempts to sign the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star.

“No, it is not a discussion Tony and I have had,” Warnock told journalists.

“I mean obviously it is good news for you lads I suppose and nothing much surprises me at the club but it’s not something we’ve talked about, not myself anyhow.” 

Asked how he would respond if Fernandes offered him Beckham, Warnock replied: “I think you will have to ask me as and when.

“I’ve got enough problems worrying about Newcastle (on Monday), I don’t want to worry about that (as well).

“We can’t sign him anyhow, we can’t sign anybody else now until January so why worry?   

“I think he is a fabulous professional. I think he has been a great asset to English football, I like him as a person but ask me in January.”  

Fernandes, the flamboyant head of fast-growing budget airline AirAsia, said in a tweet on Tuesday: “I think having someone like David (Beckham) in the club would be great. Was always in my thoughts. Let’s see.”