Nicklas Bendtner's header has given Sunderland a 1-0 lead at the break against relegation-threatened Queens Park Rangers at the Stadium of Light.

The Arsenal loanee powerfully headed in James McClean's cross from the left on 41 minutes for his third goal in four Premier League games.

Bendtner's goal was nearly cancelled out just moments later but former Black Cats striker Djibril Cisse's header was well blocked by Sotiros Kyrgiakos.

The Dane had nearly been the provider earlier in proceedings when he threaded a ball through to Jack Colback, who struck the outside of the post.

Rangers are without captain Joey Barton, who was dropped by manager Mark Hughes.