QPR Managerial Appointments: Arrival and Departure Statements: From Stuart Houston to Neil Warnock (II)
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QPR Managerial Arrival and Departure Announcements
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From Houston to Ramsey: QPR Managerial Arrival and Departure Announcements ("Hello...Goodbye")
- QPR
managerial arrival and departures have become a not-infrequent
occurrence at Loftus Road. For at touch of nostalgia, a look back at a
decade of QPR Official statements announcing their latest managerial
appointments and departures: Chris Ramsey....Harry Redknapp...Mark Hughes...Neil
Warnock...Mick Harford...Paul Hart....Jim Magilton...Paulo
Sousa...Gareth Ainsworth...Iain Dowie...Luigi De Canio...John
Gregory...Gary Waddock...Iain Holloway...Gerry Francis...Ray
Harford...Stuart Houston!.
- List of QPR Managers (including "Acting Managers") --- Complete list of QPR Managers
- List of QPR Managers (including "Acting Managers") --- Complete list of QPR Managers
CHRIS RAMSEY RELIEVED OF FIRST TEAM DUTIES
Nov 4, 2015
Chris Ramsey relieved of Head Coach duties with immediate effect ...
Ramsey leaves First Team role
Ferdinand explains reasons for change
Warnock to take temporary charge
CHRIS Ramsey has been relieved of his First Team duties at QPR with immediate effect.
Ramsey, 53, leaves his position as Head Coach following Tuesday night's 1-0 defeat to Derby County, a result which left the R’s in 13th place in the Sky Bet Championship.
Director of Football, Les Ferdinand, told http://www.qpr.co.uk: “We've made this decision in the best interests of the football club.
“It’s no secret that we expected to sell some key players in the summer transfer window, and as such, our target at the start of the season reflected that.
“However, keeping these players at the club has seen the mandate change, owing to what we believe this squad is capable of.
“We're all desperately disappointed it hasn't worked out with Chris. He has had to deal with this shift in expectation and has worked incredibly hard in doing so.”
The club will undergo an immediate recruitment process as the search gets underway for a new Head Coach.
In the interim period, Neil Warnock will take temporary charge of First Team affairs.
A further announcement will be made in due course. QPR
CHRIS RAMSEY APPOINTED QPR HEAD COACH
Feb 13, 2015
Club appoint Ramsey until the end of the 2014/15 campaign ...
QPR can confirm that Chris Ramsey has been appointed Head Coach until the end of the 2014/15 season.
Ramsey will work alongside Kevin Bond (First Team Coach) and Kevin Hitchcock (Goalkeeping Coach). Director of Football Les Ferdinand will oversee the trio whilst also having a presence on the training ground for the remainder of the campaign.
QPR Chairman, Tony Fernandes, told http://www.qpr.co.uk: “In the wake of Harry Redknapp’s resignation, it was my desire to identify the right individual for the job and at this time, we believe Chris is the ideal candidate.
“He has impressed everyone here in his short time in charge and I firmly believe he is the right man – working closely with Les – to lead us until the end of the season.
“Chris has an opportunity now to stamp his authority and class on the position. He is part of our long-term plans at QPR.”
Fernandes added: “A lot has been written and said about the position, including by myself, but the decision has been taken to defer the permanent appointment until the end of the season.
“We spoke to many individuals who were interested in the role, one of whom I was quoted on as being a dream, but none of them were right to take the club forward at this time for a variety of reasons, whereas we firmly believe Chris is.
“We are keen for the position to be a long-term appointment that will play a major role in shaping the future on-field progression of QPR. For that reason, it is vitally important that we get the right individual.
“As a Board of Directors, we are determined to make the right appointment in the best interests of the club.
“Premier League survival is our priority in the short term, but in the medium and long term we want to make sure everything is in place, from the Academy upwards, to create a lasting legacy and philosophy at QPR.”
Ferdinand added: “I’ve been liaising closely with the Board over the last week or so regarding the position and it became apparent that Chris is the best man for the job at this time.
“He’s settled into QPR fantastically well over the last few months. He is highly thought of by everybody and has the respect of everyone connected to the club.
“He will have a huge part to play in the long-term future of this club at all levels, and we are confident that Chris, supported by the backroom staff, will be able to deliver our goal of Premier League survival.”
Ramsey said: “This is a great privilege and an honour for me. I am excited about leading the club between now and the end of the season.
“I believe in this group of players, the staff, and everyone working at the club.
“I’d like to thank the QPR supporters for their support so far and with their backing, I am confident that we can build on Tuesday’s win at Sunderland and start to climb the table.
“During this period, I will still be involved in the running of the Academy for the rest of this season and beyond. Continuity is very important when it comes to the development of young players, which is something I am very mindful of.” QPR
QPR ACCEPT HARRY REDKNAPP RESIGNATION
Harry Redknapp resigns from managerial position at QPR ...
HARRY Redknapp has tendered his resignation at QPR, which has been accepted by the Board.
Redknapp
– who joined the club in November 2012, overseeing 105 matches in
charge – informed Chairman Tony Fernandes of his decision to resign this
morning.
He will undergo knee replacement surgery in the coming weeks.
Redknapp told www.qpr.co.uk:
“I have had such a fantastic time at QPR. I would like to thank the
Board, the players and all my staff, and especially the supporters who
have been absolutely fantastic to me since I arrived at the club for
their tremendous support.
“Sadly I need
immediate surgery on my knee which is going to stop me from doing my job
in the coming weeks. It means I won’t be able to be out on the training
pitch every day, and if I can’t give 100 per-cent I feel it’s better
for someone else to take over the reins.
“My
relationship with Tony Fernandes has been one of the highlights of my
footballing career and I wish the club every success. I am confident
they will survive in the Premier League this year.”
Speaking
on behalf of the Board, QPR Chairman Tony Fernandes added: “I would
like to take this opportunity to thank Harry for everything he has done
for QPR during his time in charge.
“We part on good terms and I would personally like to wish him all the best for the future.”
Les Ferdinand and Chris Ramsey have been placed in temporary charge of the team until further notice.
PUBLISHED
10:54 24th November 2012
by @OfficialQPR
Harry pens two-and-a-half year deal ...
I can’t wait to get to work and get the results necessary to kick-start our season"
Harry Redknapp
QUEENS Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to confirm the appointment of Harry Redknapp as the club’s new manager.
The 65 year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year contract at Loftus Road and will watch his new team from the stands when the R’s take on Manchester United at Old Trafford this afternoon.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Redknapp said: “I’m delighted to be back in the managerial hot-seat at QPR.
“When I spoke to the Shareholders and they told me about their plans I knew this was too good an opportunity to turn down.
“There’s no doubt there’s a lot of ability in the squad, but for one reason or another things haven’t gone as well as everyone expected since the start of the season.
“I can’t wait to get to work and get the results necessary to kick-start our season.”
Redknapp’s arrival in W12 represents a significant coup for the club.
Widely-regarded as one of the best English managers in the business, Redknapp’s track record at the highest level speaks for itself.
After guiding Portsmouth to an FA Cup Final victory in 2007/08, he enjoyed arguably his finest hour in management at Tottenham Hotspur, where he led them into the Champions League for the first time in their history at the end of the 2009/10 season.
He was also named Premier League Manager of the Year at the end of that campaign.
Speaking on behalf of the QPR Shareholders, QPR Chairman Tony Fernandes, said: “Harry was our number one target, the unanimous choice of the Board and we’re delighted we’ve been able to attract him to the club.
“He has a proven track record in the Premier League and has all the characteristics we were looking for to get us out of the current situation we find ourselves in.
“His man-management skills are second to none and we are confident he is the right man to lead us away from the bottom of the table.
“We believe we have a manager with significant experience at the highest level of football, who can come in and immediately help deliver our objectives.”
QPR Shareholder Kamarudin Bin Meranun added: “While we look forward with Harry we would also like to place on the record our appreciation to Mark.
“Though results have not been good this season, Mark has moved the club forwards in terms of infrastructure and advancing QPR as a Premier League club. For that, we want to thank him.
“He was a consummate professional and it was a difficult decision to make as we had all grown to respect him. We all wish him and his family well for the future.”
A further announcement regarding Redknapp’s backroom team will be made in due course. QPR
MARK HUGHES STATEMENT
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PUBLISHED
10:45 23rd November 2012
by @OfficialQPR
Hughes contract terminated with immediate effect
QUEENS Park Rangers Football Club has today (Friday) terminated the contract of manager Mark Hughes with immediate effect.
This decision has been taken after careful consideration by the Board of Directors, following numerous meetings over the last few days.
The Board of Directors wish to thank Mark for his commitment, hard work and dedication in his ten months in charge.
Mark has shown integrity and professionalism throughout his time here, but ultimately the circumstances we find ourselves in have left the Board of Directors with very little choice but to make a change.
The Board will now be working actively to put a new managerial structure in place as soon as possible.
Mark Bowen and Eddie Niedzwiecki will take charge of the R's trip to Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
The club will be making a further announcement in due course.
Official Site
EXCLUSIVE: HUGHES APPOINTED
Posted on: Tue 10 Jan 2012
Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to confirm the appointment of Mark Hughes as the Club's new Manager.
The 48 year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Loftus Road and will take charge of First Team training this afternoon.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Hughes said: "It's a great feeling to be back in football and to be the Manager of QPR.
"I'm fully aware of the challenge in the short and long term and I am genuinely excited about the ambition of the owners.
"Nobody can doubt the history of this great Football Club and the passion of its fantastically loyal supporters.
"Now the immediate priority is to consolidate our place in the Barclays Premier League, but beyond that, the future is very bright and fills me with great enthusiasm."
QPR Chairman, Tony Fernandes, said: "Mark has a proven track record in the Premier League, bringing a wealth of experience at both Club and international level.
"He has a great passion to achieve as a Manager and has already been hugely successful in his career.
"His ambitions match those of the Board and we are delighted to have him at the helm."
QPR Vice Chairman, Amit Bhatia, added: "Mark has a great managerial pedigree and has proven over the years to be a very astute Manager.
"I am looking forward to working with him to bring success to the Club."
QPR CEO, Philip Beard, said: "Having spoken at length with Mark, I know he is brimming with enthusiasm and anticipation about the challenge of taking QPR forward and I believe he is the perfect choice to deliver the success we all desire."
Vastly-experienced, Hughes has built a reputation as one of Britain's most admired Managers, with success at both Club and international level.
He has a proven track record in the transfer market, recruiting the likes of Vincent Kompany, Nigel de Jong, Moussa Dembele and Christopher Samba to the Premier League.
In his five years in charge of Wales, Hughes turned around the fortunes of the national side, before being appointed Blackburn Rovers boss in September 2004.
He guided Rovers to seventh place in the 2007/08 Premier League campaign, before moving to Manchester City at the start of the following season.
City, with the riches of the Abu Dhabi United investment group, would go on to finish tenth in Hughes' first season in charge, as well as reaching the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup.
His spell in Manchester ended in December 2009, however, when he was controversially replaced by Roberto Mancini despite City sitting pretty in sixth place in the top-flight.
Fulham was his next port of call, where he exceeded all expectations with an eighth place finish and Europa League qualification through the Fair Play League.
Hughes - who has only finished outside the top half of the top-flight once in his managerial career - will be joined at the Club by Assistant Manager Mark Bowen, First Team Coach Eddie Niedzwiecki and Goalkeeping Coach Kevin Hitchcock.
The Club will be making no further comment.
*Mark Hughes will be officially unveiled as the Club's new Manager at a Press Conference on Wednesday.
http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10373~2571588,00.html
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - January 2012 - WARNOCK AXED
QPR PART COMPANY WITH WARNOCK
Posted on: Sun 08 Jan 2012
Queens Park Rangers Football Club has today (Sunday 8th January 2012) parted company with Manager Neil Warnock.
Warnock joined the Club in March 2010, overseeing 84 matches in charge, winning 33, drawing 27 and losing 24.
Last season, he successfully guided the Club back to the Premier League for the first time in 15 years.
The Board's commitment to retaining our Premier League status ultimately led to this decision.
QPR Assistant Manager Mick Jones and First Team Coach Keith Curle have also left the Club.
QPR Chairman, Tony Fernandes, said: "This decision has been made in the best interests of the Club and I can assure everyone that this is not a decision that was made lightly.
"Sadly, our recent run of poor form has seen us slip alarmingly down the table and the Board felt it was the right time to make a change.
"Neil has acted with honesty, professionalism and integrity throughout his time at the Club, and I would personally like to thank him for his significant contribution to QPR over the last 22 months.
"I genuinely wish him all the very best for the future and he will always be welcome back at Loftus Road."
QPR Vice-Chairman, Amit Bhatia, added: "It is with a very heavy heart that we make this announcement.
"I played a key role in bringing Neil to Loftus Road and consider him to be a close personal friend and a great professional.
"I would like to place on the record my thanks to him for transforming us from a Championship Club to a Premier League Club.
"As a Club we have gained enormously from Neil's wisdom, experience and leadership. He has always performed his managerial duties to the very highest of standards.
"I wish Neil every success going forward and he will always be welcome at QPR.
"I now look forward to the future and the rest of the season as we work towards stabilising our position in the Premier League."
Neil Warnock said: "Obviously I'm very disappointed, but having achieved so much, I leave the Club with a great sense of pride.
"I have enjoyed my time here more than anywhere else and the QPR fans have been brilliant with me - they deserve success.
"My biggest regret is that the takeover didn't happen earlier, because that would have given me the opportunity to bring in the targets I'd pinpointed all last summer and probably given us a better chance to succeed in the Premier League."
He added: "The board at QPR are hugely ambitious and I wish them every success for the future.
"I've been involved in the game a long time and I will be spending the immediate future with my family and friends before deciding my next career move."
The Club will now begin its search for a new Manager and will make a further announcement in due course.
Read more: http://qprreport.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=28762&page=1#ixzz1iwW50jnL
November 24, 2012
QPR Official Site - March1, 2010
EXCLUSIVE: WARNOCK CONFIRMED
- Queens Park
Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Neil
Warnock as First Team Manager with immediate effect.- Warnock has today
signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at Loftus Road after a
compensation agreement was reached with his former club, Crystal Palace
FC.
- Warnock, who
guided Sheffield United to the Premier League in 2006, said: "I am
delighted to be joining a club with the history that QPR has.
- "As a manager, Loftus Road is always a place I loved because of the fantastic atmosphere there.
- "Looking from afar I believe this is the perfect time for me to come in, with the new structure and chairman in place.
- "Together we can give the club the stability that it needs.
- "I am really looking forward to the challenge that's in front of me."
- QPR Chairman
Ishan Saksena said: "Neil was always our number one target and so we are
delighted to announce him as our manager.
- "He has great
experience in English football and a phenomenal track record. I believe
he is the right man to help QPR achieve its ambitions.
- "Neil will be given the full support of the Board, and I know our fans will give him their full backing as well."
- Caretaker manager Mick Harford and his assistant Tony Coton have stepped down from their respective roles.
- Harford said:
"I was more than happy to help the club out when they asked me, and I
did the best I could during my time in caretaker charge.
- "The club needs an experienced manager in order to move forward, and I wish Neil every success.
- "He has joined a fantastic football club with brilliant supporters, and I sincerely hope he does well.
- "The club is
in good hands now with the new structure, Ishan Saksena and Gianni
Paladini, and I believe QPR has a very bright future." QPR
FEBRUARY 2010 - MICK HARFORD DEPARTS
QPR Official Site - CLUB STATEMENT Fri 15 Jan 2010 - PAUL HART DEPARTS...MICK HARFORD APPOINTED
- The Club can confirm that Manager Paul Hart has decided to leave Queens Park Rangers Football Club with immediate effect.
- Assistant Manager Mick Harford will be taking charge of First Team affairs, starting with this weekend's Championship fixture at Blackpool.
- The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR
December 2009 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE: PAUL HART APPOINTED
- The Club is pleased to confirm the arrival of Paul Hart as First Team Manager.
Following
discussions late last night after Jim Magilton's and John Gorman's
departures, the appointment was concluded this morning.
Hart will be joined at the Club by new Assistant Manager Mick Harford in a deal which runs until the end of the 2009/10 season.
The Club would like to place on record its thanks to Steve Gallen and Marc Bircham for their efforts while in Caretaker charge.
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage
PAUL HART DEPARTS & MICK HARFORD APPOINTED
QPR Official Site - CLUB STATEMENT Fri 15 Jan 2010
- The Club can confirm that Manager Paul Hart has decided to leave Queens Park Rangers Football Club with immediate effect.
- Assistant Manager Mick Harford will be taking charge of First Team affairs, starting with this weekend's Championship fixture at Blackpool.
- The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR
PAUL HART ARRIVES
December 2009
- The Club is pleased to confirm the arrival of Paul Hart as First Team Manager.
Following
discussions late last night after Jim Magilton's and John Gorman's
departures, the appointment was concluded this morning.
Hart will be joined at the Club by new Assistant Manager Mick Harford in a deal which runs until the end of the 2009/10 season.
The Club would like to place on record its thanks to Steve Gallen and Marc Bircham for their efforts while in Caretaker charge.
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage
JIM MAGILTON
DEPARTURE - CLUB STATEMENT
Wed 16 Dec 2009
The Club can confirm that Jim Magilton and John Gorman have left Queens Park Rangers by mutual consent.
Recent events
have been widely reported and whilst Jim Magilton completely denies the
allegations, with the full support of John Gorman, it has been agreed
that it is in the best interests of the Club and Jim Magilton, if the
parties move on in their separate ways.
The Club would like to wish both Jim Magilton and John Gorman good luck in the future and thank them for their hard work.
SUSPENDED -CLUB STATEMENT - December 9, 2009
The Club can confirm that Manager Jim Magilton has been suspended with immediate effect, pending an internal investigation.
The suspension relates to an incident which occurred at Monday's Championship fixture against Watford at Vicarage Road.
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage.
MAGILTON ARRIVAL
QPR Official
Site EXCLUSIVE: MAGILTON APPOINTED - Queens Park Rangers Football Club
is delighted to announce the appointment of Jim Magilton as the Club's
new Manager.
- The 40
year-old, who made over 50 appearances for Northern Ireland during an
illustrious playing career for both Club and country, has put pen to
paper on a two year deal at Loftus Road.
- Speaking
exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, QPR Holdings Ltd Chairman, Flavio
Briatore, expressed his delight at Magilton's arrival, commenting: "We
had an incredibly high number of applicants, but Jim was the stand-out
candidate for the role.
- "We (the
Board) sat down with him on four separate occasions over the last month
to discuss our goals and ambitions and he has really impressed myself,
Mr Ecclestone, Mr Mittal and Mr Bhatia with his knowledge, understanding
and passion for football.
- "He did a
very good job at Ipswich Town, playing some fine, attacking football,
and he has great ambition to achieve in this next chapter of his
managerial career. We are all really looking forward to working with
him."
- Magilton
enjoyed three seasons at the helm at Portman Road, inspiring the Tractor
Boys to an eighth place finish in season 2007/08, before guiding them
towards a comfortable top-half finish prior to his departure in April.
- Speaking
exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, the R's new boss said: "I'm really looking
forward to the challenge of managing this great Football Club.
- "The Board
are highly ambitious, but they are very realistic at the same time. I
have huge ambitions to achieve as a Manager though, and our aim is to
keep progressing, year after year.
- "There is a
very strong group of players at the Club and with one or two additions
over the summer, we can expect to be in a position to drastically
improve upon the eleventh place finish secured last season."
Magilton will be joined at the Club by a new Assistant Manager in the coming weeks.
*The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR
PAULO SOUSA
SOUSA DEPARTURE
QPR Official Site CLUB STATEMENT
- Queens Park
Rangers Football Club has today (Thursday) had to terminate Paulo De
Sousa's employment with the Club with immediate effect.
It came to the Club's attention that Mr De Sousa had, without authority, divulged highly confidential and sensitive information. The Club, with legal advice, responded in this way to protect its position.
Player / Coach Gareth Ainsworth will take Caretaker charge on a temporary basis, from now until the end of the season.
The Club will be making no further comment.
QPR Official Site - November 19, 2008 - EXCLUSIVE: R'S APPOINT SOUSA
- Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Paulo Sousa as First Team Coach.
- The 38
year-old, who won 51 caps for Portugal during an illustrious playing
career and spent five years as assistant to Luis Felipe Scolari with the
Portuguese national team, has penned a two-and-a-half year contract
until the summer of 2011.
- Sousa, who
will retain the services of temporary Caretaker Manager Gareth Ainsworth
within his backroom staff, will take charge of the R's Coca Cola
Championship fixture against Watford on Saturday.
- Speaking
exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Sousa said: "It is an honour to be part of
this project. I have always wanted to work for a big Club and I am very
excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers.
- "I have great
belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can
achieve the objectives set by the management."
- Sousa added:
"I believe in playing positive, attacking football. To achieve positive
results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to
do this, both for ourselves and for the fans.
- "I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
- Flavio Briatore, QPR Holdings Limited Chairman, added: "Paulo is a very good appointment for this Football Club.
- "I have been keeping track of his work for the last few months and he is the right man for our project.
- "He has great
experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is
part of the new generation of coach. He has worked with some of the
World's best players and we are excited about having him.
- "His football
career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game.
After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am
delighted he has agreed to join us."
- Briatore
added: "I would like to thank Gareth Ainsworth for his contribution as
Caretaker Manager and confirm that he still has a very important role to
play at this Club. He is QPR through and through and will work very
closely with Paulo as we build for a successful future."
- The Club will be making no further comment at this stage.
IAIN DOWIE
Iain Dowie's Departure
QPR CLUB STATEMENT - 24 Oct 2008 - Dowie
The Board of
Queens Park Rangers Football Club has given notice to terminate the
contract of Manager Iain Dowie with immediate effect.
Dowie, who took
over the reins at Loftus Road in the summer, oversaw 15 matches in
charge in all competitions and leaves the R's in ninth place in the Coca
Cola Championship.
Player / Coach
Gareth Ainsworth has been appointed Caretaker Manager on a temporary
basis and will take charge of First Team affairs until further notice.
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage - QPR
DOWIE APPOINTED
- May 2008 QPR Official Site - EXCLUSIVE: DOWIE APPOINTED
Queens Park
Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Iain
Dowie as First Team Coach with immediate effect.
The 43
year-old, who spent three years in W12 during a distinguished playing
career, has today (Wednesday 14th May 2008) put pen to paper on a
two-year contract at Loftus Road.
Speaking about
the appointment, QPR Sporting Director Gianni Paladini, said: "Iain
Dowie has a proven track record in the Championship and we're delighted
to have him on board."
Dowie, who
enjoyed a brief stint as Caretaker Manager of the R's, before working
under Gerry Francis in the role of Assistant Manager, also expressed his
delight, commenting: "This is a very exciting long-term project.
"I'm very
privileged to have been given the opportunity under the new ownership to
return to the Club where I served my managerial apprenticeship.
"I've been
thoroughly impressed by the new investors and their fresh, aggressive
and innovative approach to all sporting matters, as well as the
marketing and commercial aspect of this Football Club.
"QPR is a fantastic Club, with a steep and successful history and I'm going to relish the challenge that lies ahead." QPR
[Note: Scroll down for Iain Dowie's previous QPR Departure]
LUIGI DE CANIO
Farewell to De Canio QPR Official Site CLUB STATEMENT 8 May 2008
Queens Park
Rangers Football Club have parted company with First Team Coach Luigi De
Canio by mutual consent with immediate effect.
The Club would
like to place on the record its thanks to Luigi for his contribution to
QPR and wish him all the best for a successful future.
Mr De Canio
also wanted to express his gratitude for the opportunity to manage
Queens Park Rangers and also for the fantastic experience he had during
his time in England.
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage.
An announcement on a successor will be made in due course.
May 2008
QPR
October 29 - QPR Official Site - EXCLUSIVE: DE CANIO APPOINTED
Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Luigi De Canio as First Team Coach.
The contract period runs until the end of the 2009/10 season.
The 50 year-old
has an extensive coaching pedigree having taken charge of Udinese,
Napoli, Reggina, Genoa and most recently Siena in Serie A - who he
helped keep in the top-flight for two consecutive seasons before
leaving.
Speaking
exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, De Canio said: "I am very excited at this
fantastic opportunity to join Queens Park Rangers as their First Team
Coach.
"For me, it
will be an honour to work for Queens Park Rangers, a Club which is
backed by Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, two businessmen with an
incredible track-record of success in sport and other fields.
"I would like
to thank them and tell them I will not disappoint their expectations. I
am fully committed to the project and I am looking forward to getting to
work with the players in preparation for our forthcoming home fixture
against Hull City on Saturday."
On behalf of
the new management of QPR, Chairman Gianni Paladini expressed his
delight at the capture of De Canio, commenting: "The Club is going
through a phase of total restructuring and for us the appointment of
Luigi De Canio is the first important step ahead in our long-term
strategy.
"De Canio is a
highly motivated professional, whose dynamic and aggressive approach
fits perfectly with the image and philosophy of the new Management."
Paladini added:
"De Canio is fully aware of the high standards and objectives that the
new Management has set for the future of the Club, and he is ready and
eager to take up the challenge"
Mick Harford,
who has acted as Caretaker Manager since the departure of John Gregory
in early October, has left the Club with immediate effect.
Paladini added:
"We offered Mick a role within the new set-up and we're disappointed
that he has turned this down. He has done a fantastic job since he
arrived here in the summer and his contribution will never be forgotten.
"We all wish him the very best for the future."
*The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR
JOHN GREGORY
October 1, 2007 - John Gregory's Departure QPR Official Site - CLUB STATEMENT
Queens Park
Rangers Football Club have today terminated the employment of John
Gregory as First Team Manager with immediate effect, following Sunday's
5-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion.
First Team
Coach, Mick Harford, has been appointed Caretaker Manager to take the
team to Wednesday's fixture against Colchester United.
QPR Chairman,
Gianni Paladini, said: "The Club would like to thank John for everything
he has done during a difficult period as Manager, in particular for
saving us from relegation last season.
"However, the performances and results this season have not met with our expectations. The league table does not lie.
"The Club have decided to act swiftly in time to turn things around for the remainder of the season.
"Mick will be
Caretaker Manager for Wednesday's away game at Colchester and a further
announcement about the post will be made after that.
"Everyone at
QPR wants to wish John good luck and success in the future. In the
meantime, Mick and the entire team are focused on achieving the Club's
first win of the season at Colchester."
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR
SEPTEMBER 20, 2006 - OFFICIAL SITE - GREGORY APPOINTED
John Gregory has been appointed as QPR First Team Manager with immediate effect.
Gary Waddock will now work under the former Aston Villa boss in an Assistant Manager's role.
In an exclusive
interview with www.qpr.co.uk, Chairman Gianni Paladini revealed his
delight at the appointment: "It's a fantastic scoop for the Club.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to get back in to the managerial game.
"He's sat down with Gary and talked everything through and the situation is perfect as we look to climb the Championship table.
"I'd like to wish the pair of them the very best in their new roles.''
Gregory - who
has been out of the game since leaving Derby County in 2003 - commented:
"I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
Waddock said:
"It's the right decision for the club, I'm just thankful that Gianni
thinks enough of me to keep me here as Assistant Manager.
"I look forward to working with John, we both played together under Terry Venables and have the same work ethic.
"I'll learn a lot from him and I'm sure that this appointment will benefit the club I love."
GREGORY EXTENDED - Announcement of Gregory's Two Year Contract
April 23, 2007 - QPR Official Site -GAFFER STAYS ON
The Club are delighted to announce that John Gregory has agreed a two year extension to his current contract.
In the wake of
the R's guaranteeing their Championship status with victory against
Cardiff City on Saturday, Gregory has activated a clause within his
existing contract that will see him remain at Loftus Road until the end
of the 2008/09 campaign.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Gregory said: "I'm delighted to accept the offer made to me by Chairman Gianni Paladini.
"I feel very
honoured to have been the Manager of QPR for the last seven months and
to have been given the task of keeping us in the Championship. Now that
has been secured, the rebuilding has to begin.
"We need to put
some concrete in the foundations to make sure the Club does not sink to
the appalling depths that it has done this season. That means making
changes throughout the Club, which will not always be popular ones.
"I personally
have never been happier. I look forward to working alongside Gianni, as
we strive to build a better future for our loyal fans. All you need is
love.''
Gregory joined
the R's on September 20th 2006, replacing Gary Waddock, whose ten games
in charge in all competitions at the start of the season heralded just
two victories.
His impact was
immediate, as the R's clinched back-to-back wins in his first two games,
before four wins in five outings, culminating in Saturday's 1-0 win
against the Bluebirds, confirmed the R's place in the second tier of
English football.
Chairman Gianni
Paladini expressed his delight at the news, commenting: "John Gregory
has done a fantastic job in his short time in charge here and we are all
delighted that he has agreed to be part of our future.
"The impact he
has made since he arrived here in September has been quite staggering.
The signings he has made have been inspirational and he's proven what a
top Manager he is.
"He has our one
hundred per-cent backing and he is most definitely the right man to
lead us to what we hope will be a very bright future.''
GARY WADDOCK
October 19, 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
WADDOCK DEMOTED
OFFICIAL SITE - GREGORY APPOINTED
John Gregory has been appointed as QPR First Team Manager with immediate effect.
Gary Waddock will now work under the former Aston Villa boss in an Assistant Manager's role.
In an exclusive
interview with www.qpr.co.uk, Chairman Gianni Paladini revealed his
delight at the appointment: "It's a fantastic scoop for the Club.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to get back in to the managerial game.
"He's sat down with Gary and talked everything through and the situation is perfect as we look to climb the Championship table.
"I'd like to wish the pair of them the very best in their new roles.''
Gregory - who
has been out of the game since leaving Derby County in 2003 - commented:
"I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
Waddock said:
"It's the right decision for the club, I'm just thankful that Gianni
thinks enough of me to keep me here as Assistant Manager.
"I look forward to working with John, we both played together under Terry Venables and have the same work ethic.
"I'll learn a lot from him and I'm sure that this appointment will benefit the club I love."
June 28, 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WADDOCK APPOINTED
QPR have announced Gary Waddock as first team manager following the appointment of Ian Holloway at Plymouth Argyle.
The new role
for the former QPR boss means that Waddock, who was named as Caretaker
Manager in February, will now be able to officially take up the title of
QPR manager.
Ian Holloway
was in charge at Loftus Road since February 2001 and oversaw 266 games
in his time at QPR, experiencing relegation and then promotion.
When he was
placed on gardening leave earlier this year, Waddock stepped up from his
position as first team coach to oversee the managerial side and has
since instilled a 'no nonsense' work ethic at Harlington.
Waddock first
recruited Alan McDonald as a first team coach before restructuring the
scouting network and transfer listing and releasing 14 players in a bid
to freshen up the squad and bring in his own men.
The new QPR boss said: "I'm delighted that QPR have finally been able to officially announce my position as first team manager.
"Now I'll feel a
lot more confident in my role and I'm looking forward to implementing
further changes behind the scenes as well as on the pitch.
"I've got a great back room staff here and we've been planning the coming season all summer.
"The work ethic
and training methods will be subjected to a complete overhaul and we're
looking forward to seeing the results on the pitch."You can see Gary
Waddock's first interview as QPR manager on QPR World tomorrow.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~853408,00.html
IAN HOLLOWAY
QPR Official Site - Feburary 2006 - HOLLOWAY ON GARDENING LEAVE
QPR OFFICIAL SITECLUB STATEMENT
QPR have
announced that Ian Holloway has been placed on 'gardening leave.'Gary
Waddock has been appointed as caretaker manager and will be taking first
team training as of today.Waddock is currently being consulted about a
potential caretaker assistant manager to join him in the next few
days.The move follows speculation about Holloway joining Leicester City
as their new manager.The club is keen to avoid any distraction to the
playing side and to move forward with the rest of the season as speedily
as possible.It has therefore put Ian Holloway and his managerial staff,
Gary Penrice and Tim Breacker, on gardening leave with immediate
effect.Gary Waddock started at work on Monday morning in training with
the players and in preparation for next Saturday's derby game against
Millwall.
Gianni Paladini
said: "QPR has not sacked Ian, but we are concerned about recent
performances and the effect the speculation about Ian joining Leicester
City might have on the players."I hope we can sort something out with
Ian as soon as possible. QPR will always be enormously grateful for the
contribution he has made over the past five years, in particular gaining
promotion for us in 2004."However, it is crucial the team are focussed
and able to move forward, which is why we have appointed Gary as
Caretaker Manager. I hope the fans will get behind Gary for the home
derby against Millwall on
Saturday."http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~779128,00.html
HOLLOWAY Appointed
QPR Official Site - February 26, 2001 - HOLLOWAY CONFIRMED AS BOSS
IAN HOLLOWAY was this afternoon unveiled as the new manager of Queens Park Rangers at a press conference at Loftus Road.
The 37-year-old
who managed Bristol Rovers for four and a half seasons left the
Memeorial Ground earlier this season and returns to Loftus Road where he
spent five years as a player. Further details and quotes from the new
boss will appear here later.
QPR Official Site - February 26, 2001- HOLLOWAY - I AM MY OWN MAN
New Rangers boss Ian Holloway insists his return to Loftus Road is a challenge he is cannot wait to undertake.
Holloway, who
spent five years as the club in the mid '90s takes over the reins at
Loftus Road less than a month after leaving his post as boss of Bristol
Rovers, and follows the path of Rangers' Director of Football Gerry
Francis, who also swapped the West Country for a return to West London
in 1991.
Subsequently
Holloway's respect for Francis, who he served under as a player for ten
years, is very high, but the 37-year-old insists that he is very much
his own man.
The new boss
has signed a contract until the end of the season with a view to another
year and he is very glad to be back at Loftus Road.
"I was lucky
enough to work with Gerry for over ten years at two different clubs and
when I met him I thought I knew a lot about football," he said.
"After I met
him I realised I knew nothing. What he doesn't know about the game you
can write on the back of a postage stamp and the affect that he had on
my overall career was so strong that I think without him I wouldn't be
say here right now.
"However, I am
my own person, I have my own ideas and I motivate players in a different
way to Gerry and I want to rub off on these players here and if I need
anybody watched or any guidance then I can talk to Gerry.
"I am one of
life's optimists but my policy is to be honest and open with our fans.
They are the ones who pay the money to come in. Anyone who knows me will
tell you I am a wholehearted, passionate person and I was brought here
before to rub off on the other players.
"I am hoping I
can do that here with the players at the club and I am desperately
looking forward to meeting them tomorrow morning and getting down to
work." "I am absolutely delighted to be taking this on this challenge
and I believe that by all pulling in the right direction we can get out
of the position we are in."
More comprehensive quotes and a closer look at the new Rangers boss will appear here this afternoon.
QPR Official Site, February 21, 2001 - DEPUTY CHAIRMAN (Nick Blackburn) ON HOLLOWAY APPOINTMENT
DEPUTY-CHAIRMAN
Nick Blackburn believes the Rangers board have appointed the right man
in Ian Holloway to take over as manager from Gerry Francis.
"We set a
certain criteria in appointing a new manager; we wanted someone the
ability to motivate, coach well, had experience of management but also
someone who was on their way up in the game, someone to help
re-structure the club in terms of the academy and the youth system and
finally a man who knows players at a lower level in the game or people
from Academy league clubs," he said.
"We also knew
that Ian made a lot of money in the transfer market with Bristol Rovers
which is something we have failed to do in recent years and also his
ability to spot and develop players which he has done with the likes of
Barry Hayles, Jason Roberts and Bobby Zamora in his time there.
"I know he
brings a lot of passion in the way he works and has a lot of passion for
this football club and after last Saturday's performance at Wimbledon, I
hope some of that passion transmits to the players.
"Ian has signed
a contract until the end of this season with another year with options
and he is very heavily incentivised especially if he can keep us in the
First Division this year which is absolutley crucial to the future of
this club.
"He is also
heavily incentivised in terms of league positions so I hope he is going
to be here for another few years because if he is it will be because he
has been able to bring success to the football club
IAIN DOWIE II
QPR Official Site - March 7, 2001: DOWIE LEAVES QPR
THREE ON THE MOVE AS OLLY MAKES HIS MARK - Mach 7. 2001
IAIN DOWIE has
left QPR after having his contract paid up in full by the club. Dowie
has worked very hard during his time at QPR and the club wishes him
every success in the future.
New manager Ian
Holloway is looking to bring in his own backroom staff. Holloway said:
"When I got the job I talked about bringing in my own backroom staff
which most people do in football. I've taken this decision now in order
to give him the best chance of getting another job.
"Iain has worked very hard for the club and I'm sure he will do very well in the future. We wish him all the best."
Antti Heinola
is also leaving Loftus Road and returning to his native Finland. The QPR
defender, whose contract has been terminated by mutual consent, is
going home to begin studying for an economics degree.
Another player to be leaving Loftus Road is Leon Jeanne after completing a period of notice issued by the club.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - 2001 - IAIN - I'D LOVE TO BE BOSS
IN THE build-up
to the Gillingham game, assistant boss Iain Dowie has been putting
forward his case in the interviews for the manager's job at Rangers.
Iain said: "I've had my interview and I put my point to the board. I think continuity here is very important.
"We've got 18 players out of contract and it is important that the new manager does know the players.
"I also feel I've got something fresh to give. I think I am an innovative coach and I can get a response from the lads.
"I also feel I
can step into the mantle of a manager. I've got some bright ideas and
things I want to implement. Hopefully I'll get the opportunity.
"I consider
this to be a very good club and one that I've really enjoyed my time at.
Hopefully my hard work will have earned me the opportunity to be the
next manager. If I don't get the job, it won't be through lack of hard
work when I've been coaching.
"It's nice that
a large percentage of the fans feel that I should get the opportunity. I
understand that people have been putting my name forward on the
internet, which is lovely. It's nice to know that I have that support
and I'd like to get Rangers back to a position where we can challenge
for honours."
GERRY FRANCIS
February 2001 CLUB STATEMENT 16 February 2001 - Francis StAnds Down
We have known
that Gerry Francis was considering retirement at the end of this season
when his contract expires and this week he confirmed to the QPR Board
that this was the case.
Following
discussions with Gerry it was mutually agreed that it was important to
install a new manager now in order to plan for next season, particularly
with regard to existing players' contracts and any incoming players.
The new manager when appointed will immediately assume responsibility
for the First team and will obviously focus on doing everything possible
to ensure that QPR do not get relegated this season.
Gerry has been
asked to remain with QPR until his contract expires and will work with
the new manager on planning for next season, including such issues as
our Academy situation and our Scouting network.
The Board would
like to go on record as publicly thanking Gerry for the job he has
performed over the last two years in very difficult circumstances,
keeping QPR up in the first year and finishing tenth last season. His
commitment to the club is second to none and we feel that he has made a
major contribution in trying to turn the club around. He has been
offered a place on the Club Board next year should he wish to take it
up.
Discussions
with candidates for the manager's job have already started and the Board
hopes to be in a position to make an announcement as soon as possible.
In the meantime, Gerry Francis will be in charge for the match against
Barnsley and we hope he leaves the job with the win the club needs.
Febaury 2001 - GERRY SAYS GOODBYE
GERRY FRANCIS was emotional about the 2-0 win over Barnsley in what was probably his last home game in charge as manager.
Gerry said: "It was a very sad day and an emotional day for me. The fans were fantastic again on Saturday.
"Some
supporters look deeply at the situation. They ask why did the man come
back in the first place? He didn't have to and the club was going
nowhere, bottom of the league and nine points adrift.
"He knew the
situation, he didn't moan and groan because he didn't have any money, he
didn't moan and groan about having to cut wages, he didn't moan and
groan that he had no signing on fees. He brought a couple of kids
through, he went to non-League. And he found a couple of players which
are the club's future, like Peter Crouch and Clarke Carlisle.
"He had tragic
injury problems this year with six broken legs, Rob Steiner retiring,
Danny Maddix not playing all season and two cruciate ligaments. Any
manager in the country - including Alex Ferguson - would have struggled
with those injuries. I've never known anything like it in my life.
"So I just feel
that supporters looking at football and managers can see beyond results
sometimes. Obviously I am delighted that they can.
"This has been
the hardest job I've had to do in my career, with some very difficult
circumstances and problems along the way. I feel I've earned a rest now.
"It was a very,
very nice gesture to offer me a place on the board here. But no one
knows what the situation will be here in a couple of months. The club is
still up for sale. A new owner might come in and not know who I am! So
you just don't know what is around the corner."
October 16 1998 FRANCIS BACK HOME
QUEENS PARK
RANGERS today announced that Gerry Francis has been appointed the club's
new Director of Football. Chairman Chris Wright confirmed that Francis
would take up the position immediately.
Francis who
sent more than 17 years at Queens Park Rangers, both as manager and
player, has been appointed on a three year contract and fills the gap
left recently by Ray Harford who resigned on September 28th.
Francis, who
has been out of football since leaving Spurs a year ago, said of his new
appointment:"I'm delighted to be back at Loftus Road. I spent many
happy and successful years here and it's great to be home again.
Although there is a major job ahead, I believe the club has huge
potential and I look forward to the challenge."
Welcoming
Francis back to Loftus Road, Chris Wright said "It is great to have
Gerry back. We chose him because of his proven track record and
significantly, his achievements as a manager. This talent, coupled with
his strong emotional commitment to the club, is a combination we beleive
is impossible to find elsewhere."
Iain Dowie, who
took over as caretaker manager following Harford's departure last
month, has been appointed player/coach working alongside Francis.
Francis' will
attend QPR's league fixture at Huddersfield tomorrow, but Dowie, who has
been preparing the team for this tough game, will remain in charge in
his role as caretaker manager.
QPR Official Site - October 16, 1998 FRANCIS BACK HOME
NEW RANGERS
manager Gerry Francis has spoken about his decision to come back to
Rangers and is prepared for the cahallenges ahead.
Francis, the
fans top choice to succeed Ray Harford, was installed on Friday
afternoon at Loftus Road and is pleased to be back again at the club
that nurtured his prestigious career.
"I'm pleased to
be back, but I know what a challenge it is and I've committed myself to
the situation and now I have to see if I can pull QPR back to where I
left it."
"There is no
money to spend on players, but I knew this when I came on and you can't
hide behind those things, I put my reputation on the line and it's up to
me to sort it out."
"I've gone into
this sort of situation before, Tottenham at ten months bristol Rovers
was dire I had to lend them money to buy players. It's a difficiult
situation but you've got to be positive."
In 11 months
I've turned down 12 opportunites flat to go back into the game, it was
only my love and concern for QPR that let me to talk to Chris Wright. I
was shocked when I found out the bottom line, and I had several other
meetings but I in the end I decided to take it - I know Chris will say I
did that with hy heart rather than my head, and he's probably right but
we'll have to see how things go. We've got to get up the league and
build a team that can get us promotion to the premeir league, because
that's where I want to be. I want to show my commitment to the club and
I'm prepared to buy in on the share side of it and try and change things
around.. What I'll be working for is to try and improve that and on the
field as well. Certainly we can't carry on with the current financial
situation, that has to be turned around. The likes of the Gallen's,
Quashie's and Dichio's that I lef there when i left have to be brought
through again because they are vital to the club because we have no
money to buy players.
IAIN DOWIE I
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - October 12, 1998 - DOWIE IGNORES THE HYPE
CARETAKER boss
Iain Dowie has returned to training at Rangers after a successful
weekend away with Northern Ireland, and is ignoring all the media hype
regarding the vacant manager's position.
Iain says: "
Whatever the scenario is at QPR, I’m just taking it day by day and
working very hard to get the lads prepared for Saturday. I can’t affect
anything that goes on off the field. I had a chat with the directors at
Rangers and they will make their decision.
Whatever that
is, I’ll go along with it. I just want to see QPR do well. That’s the
most important thing at the moment. It’s not about personalities. It’s
about everyone fighting and pulling the same way for the benefit of the
club."
RAY HARFORD
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - September 28, 1998 - HARFORD RESIGNS
RAY HARFORD STEPS DOWN
- Queens Park
Rangers FC announced on Monday morning the resignation of Manager Ray
Harford following the team's 4-1 defeat at Oxford United on Saturday.
Ray felt that at this difficult time it was in the Club's best interests
he should step down.
- The Club has
appointed player/coach Iain Dowie, who has also been managing the
unbeaten Reserve Team, as Caretaker Manager. Dowie will be in charge of
the team for tomorrow's game at Wolverhampton Wanderers, and for next
Saturday's home match against Grimsby Town.
- The Board
intend to advertise the position of manager and will be hoping to
interview a short lisst of candidates over the next two weeks. An
appointment will be made in due course.
- In the
probability of the home game against Ipswich Town on 11th October being
postponed due to International duties, the Board will endeavour to have a
manager in place by the following game away to Huddersfield town (17th
October).
- The Board
gave careful consideration to appointing Player/Assistant Manager Vinnie
Jones as Manager. The Board decided that it was in the best interests
of the Club to formulate a short list of candidates for the position of
Manager who will be interviewed in due course. Vinnie will be considered
as part of this process.
- A further announcement will be made in due course.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - December 1997 - RAY IS OUR MAN
QPR CHAIRMAN
CHRIS WRIGHT tonight confirmed the widest known secret in football that
Ray Harford was to be appointed the new manager at Loftus Road.
The QPR supremo
revealed that negotiations for Harford's signature were almost complete
and that he expected the former West Brom boss to be at the helm before
the weekend.
" I can tell all Rangers fans that we have agreed the basic terms for Ray Harford to become the new manager of QPR."
" He has
resigned from his position at WBA, who are refusing to accept he is out
of contract. As far as we and our lawyers are concerned he is not in
contract and we hope to conclude the agreement sometime tomorrow morning
in time for him to take training."
The Chairman
then indicated the reasons for Ray's selection and the role of John
Hollins who has been acting as caretaker manager since the dismissal of
Stewart Houston.
"We have asked
Ray to take John Hollins as his assistant and at the moment John is
considering all his options, but we very much hope the two of them will
be managing the first team."
"Ray's record
speaks for itself. He has managed at all levels, both in the lower
divisions and in the Premier League. He was coach at Blackburn with
Kenny Dalglish and then took over. He has done an excellent job at WBA,
taking a team last season who were close to relegation and turning them
into promotion candidates."
" He comes with
more experience than virtually any manager in the country, he has an
excellent record in the transfer market and is an expert at bringing
players on. He lives in London and he is welcoming the chance to work at
QPR believing we have the potential to get back into the Premier
League."
" I believe Ray will prove to be an excellent choice to take QPR into the Premiership and stay there."
Chris Wright
complimented John Hollins on the job he had done over the last few weeks
and complimented him for restoring spirit at the club and with the
fans.
" John has been brilliant. Spirit is excellent between the players and the fans think they have reclaimed their club."
"I'm looking forward to working with Ray and I am sure he will do an excellent job."
QPR Official Site - HARFORD FREE FOR RANGERS
RANGERS and
West Brom reached an agreement over Ray Harford on Friday morning,
leaving the way clear for the former Hawthornes boss to take over this
afternoon at Loftus Road.
West Brom had
tried to prevent Harford, who resigned from his Hawthorns post on
Thursday morning, from taking up the Rangers post without them receiving
any compensation and were believed to be seeking a sum in the region of
£500,000 for the loss their boss.
Harford is now
free to resume as manager and is expected to take over training this
afternoon. A decision as to whether John Hollins will accept the
appointment as assistant manager is expected in the near future.
Speaking after
the agreement between the two clubs had reached its faviourable
conclusion, Ray revealed his relief at the outcome.
" I'm very excited about the opportunity and can't wait to get my feet under the table."
" I think the
next few games are vitally important as given the right results they
could put us right in amongst the chasing pack."
Ray will not be
in charge for Saturday's game against Sunderland, but will be watching
from the stands. John Hollins will be in the dugout and will select the
side.
STUART HOUSTON (AND BRUCE RIOCH)
QPR Official Site - November 10, 1997 - BOARD RELEASE HOUSTON AND RIOCH
BOSS Stewart Houston and Assistant Manager Bruce Rioch have parted company with Queens Park Rangers, after a board meeting at Loftus Road on Monday night.
A statement issued by the club read:
"Following a
meeting of the Board of QPR, at which Stuart Houston was present, the
club has reluctantly decided to release both Stuart Houston and Bruce
Rioch.
A caretaker manager will be appointed in the interim period."
Chairman Chris
Wright will issue a full statement following the AGM of Loftus Road plc
tomorrow afternoon. The excusive interview will be available on this
site from around 6pm GMT.
QPR Official Site - November 11, 1997 - THE WRIGHT WAY FORWARD
CHRIS WRIGHT revealed today that fan power had necessitated the removal of Stewart Houston and Bruce Rioch as the managerial team at Loftus Road
As John Hollins
was installed as caretaker boss, the chairman insisted he would not be
rushed into finding immediate replacements.
" I did feel it
was important that Stewart carried the body of the fans with him, we
had taken six points from 24 and the feeling was we were not moving in
the right direction."
" I know that
Stewart never really endeared himself to the fans, he didn't see that as
part of his job and I felt Stewart was struggling to carry support with
him."
" I wanted to give him until the end of the year, but I felt it was better to make a clean break."
Turning his attention to the fuure and the installation of the new man at the helm, Wright revealed.
" I don't want
to lurch from one manager to another. I want to go into this feeling,
this is the best man, rather than getting in someone tomorrow
afternoon."
" It could be days, weeks, months or even the end of the season."
" Twelve months
ago we felt we were a Premiership Club who would be promoted. We gave
players contracts thinking we would be back in 12 months time. The
reality is now we are a Division One club. To get out of this division
is now a priority and we're looking for a manager capable of getting us
well equipped to survive and then getting us out of the division."
" We want
someone who knows about the Nationwide League and its players, who will
bring the best ones to QPR to get us into the Premier League."
As the Rangers
supremo laid out his plans, he apologised to Bruce Rioch over the way he
had found out about his dismissal, on Ceefax rather than having been
informed directly.
" Stewart was
to inform Bruce. I don't know why Stewart took a little longer than we
anticipated to contact him. I'm genuinely sorry Bruce found out the way
he did."
Having aligned
himself with popular opinion in making the managerial change, Chris made
a personal plea to R's supporters to get back and stand full square
behind John Hollins and the team saying.
" This is your
club. It's up to you to get behind your team. You've been quiet at home,
now show everybody how much you feel for the club. I know your
opinions, we've acted on them, now get behind us again."
[JOHN HOLLINS]
QPR Official Site - November 18 - JOHN WANTS TOP JOB
CARETAKER boss John Hollins has expressed a keen interest in becoming the next manager of Queens Park Rangers.
John is in charge on a temporary basis, starting with Saturday's home game against Stoke. But he'd like the job permanently.
Hollins
says:"It would be an honour and I'd be very pleased. First things first,
though, and we've got one match on Saturday. Let's take each game as it
comes and look for a Rangers victory."
"We have some
great guys to work with. I want Rangers a happy place to play. Football
is an enjoyable game and I enjoy working with the squad. I want these
guys to have a smile on their faces, but with grit and determination in
matches to make sure we win.
[Note: The Wilkins departure/Houston appointment announcement yet to be found!]]
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