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Wednesday, May 31, 2006

"The Trial" Continues - Latest Updates

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BBC - May 31, 2006
Man denies threatening QPR boss

A security consultant has denied hiring a gang of thugs to terrorise a Queens Park Rangers director at gunpoint.

Andy Baker, 40, is one of six men accused of threatening Gianni Paladini, just before a home match with Sheffield United in August 2005.

He told Blackfriars Crown Court he had been invited to the game as a guest and was trying to tout for the club's lucrative stewarding contract.

All six deny conspiracy to blackmail, false imprisonment and gun possession.

Charges have been dropped against a seventh man - Barry Powell, 34, from west London.

The prosecution claim a group of nightclub doormen, hired by Mr Baker, threatened Mr Paladini at gunpoint and forced him to sign documents detailing his resignation from the club and the handover of his shares.

Box stormed

The court has heard that at half time, armed police stormed one of the executive boxes, arrested several men and found £7,000 in Mr Baker's hooded top, which the prosecution say was payment for the "heavies".

But questioned by his counsel Anthony Arlidge QC, Mr Baker denied ever making threats to Mr Paladini.

He told the court the £7,000 was partly wages for his doormen and the rest was "to grease some wheels at QPR to help us get the [stewarding] contract".

Mr Baker said he had been invited to the game along with co-defendants David Davenport, Aaron Lacey, John McFarlane and Michael Reynolds by the brother of co-defendant David Morris, a QPR shareholder.

He said he met Mr Morris in his executive box at Loftus Road shortly before the game, and they were taken on a guided tour.

Mr Baker said they then went into the chairman's suite, where Mr Paladini's daughter Kate, grabbed his arm and screamed at him: "Why did you hold a gun at my father's head?"

He told the court he laughed it off as a joke and then he and his friends returned to the box to watch the first half of the match.

Mr Baker said he was horrified when armed police entered the box.

Cash 'forgotten'

Asked why he had not mentioned the stewarding contract when he was interviewed by police, Mr Baker said his solicitor had advised him to reply "no comment" to all questions.

Prosecutor David Williams QC asked him why he had also not mentioned the £7,000 was meant as wages for doormen at his clubs.

"I must have forgotten," said Mr Baker.

Mr Williams suggested it was "a bit of a coincidence" that another group of men, not including Mr Baker or his friends, had been at QPR on the day and threatened Mr Paladini at gunpoint.

Mr Baker replied: "Yes".

Mr Baker, 40, from Somerset, is charged alongside Mr Morris, 50, John McFarlane, 39, from west London, Aaron Lacey, 36, from Watford, David Davenport, 38, from Buckinghamshire and Michael Reynolds, 45, from north London.
The trial continues.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/5033434.stm



From Tracy Stent/QPR 1st - Summary of the Trial thus Far
3 weeks into the trial - An overview

http://www2.qpr1st.co.uk/main/newsarticle.asp?id=79

Paladini on Watford Bid for Shittu...No offers for Cook...Hope to sign Ward and at least one striker (Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times)

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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - May 31, 2006
Shittu bid: Wat's the idea?

QPR chairman Gianni Paladini has dismissed a bid by Premiership new boys Watford for Danny Shittu as 'embarrassing'.Paladini has made it clear that he will not allow Rangers' star defender to leave Loftus Road this summer for less than £3m.And Watford, promoted to the top flight via the play-offs just 10 days ago, have been told that their offer for Shittu - thought to be less than half of the asking price - would not be considered."

I respect what Watford have done - they brought in the right players without paying a fortune, now they're in the Premiership," Paladini told the Times."When I watched them winning the play-offs on TV, I felt like changing channels because I was so jealous! But their offer for Danny was a ridiculous one - I felt it was embarrassing."We certainly won't sell him for that. I told them we want £3m and then another £500,000 if they stay up and we won't take less than the asking price." Danny's under contract - he knows the situation and he knows we are building a team. He's one of our most important players and we want to keep those players at the club."

Relegated pair Birmingham and West Brom have been eyeing the QPR centre-back for some time, with the Blues having a bid turned down in January.On that occasion, Sheffield United and Norwich were also rebuffed in their approaches for Shittu, who signed a three-year contract with the Rs last summer.

Paladini also confirmed that he has so far received no offers for winger Lee Cook, whose excellent form since the turn of the year has seen a £2.5m price tag placed on his head.The former Watford wide man has been offered a two-year extension to his contract, which runs out in 2007 and Paladini added: "We want him to extend his contract and I'm hoping that should be done next week."

The club are also in discussions with the Australian Football Federation to finalise the transfer of 21-year-old midfielder Nick Ward from Perth Glory." We've agreed terms with the boy, he's happy to come here and, if we can sort things out with the Australian federation, I think he will make a tremendous difference next season," said Paladini.

Rangers, who have already signed Jamaican defender Damion Stewart and Cameroon midfielder Armel Tchakounte so far this summer, are also hoping to bring in a right-back and at least one forward.They had initially expressed an interest in signing Tottenham's Dutch striker Mounir El-Hamdaoui on a season's loan, but will now turn their attention elsewhere.

Caretaker manager Gary Waddock admitted recently that he planned to bring in at least one more striker irrespective of whether Shabazz Baidoo decided to stay at Loftus Road.And, although the teenager - who had been mulling over a contract offer for the past three months - has now chosen to stay, Waddock stressed that he will face stiff competition for first team football."There's no guarantee he will be involved in the first team - he's got to earn that right and hopefully he'll put in the kind of performances that will push him into the side," stated Waddock."Everything's been agreed with Shabazz, which is good news. He wanted everything done properly, so did we and sometimes it takes time to ensure that happens.
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/content/camden/kilburntimes/sport/story.aspx?brand=KLBTOnline&category=sportfootball&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=sportklbt&itemid=WeED31%20May%202006%2011%3A16%3A59%3A137

Saturday, May 27, 2006

Marking Four Years Since QPR Got Out of Administration...and entered into their ABC Corporation Loanbt

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May 2002: QPR Get out ofAdministration having take on the 10 Million Pound loan from the "mysterious" ABC Corporation.

From Four Years Ago:

Bucks Free Press - May 31, 2002

QPR on road to cash recoveryQPR or to be strictly accurate, parent company Loftus Road plc are out of administration following a High Court ruling on Monday.
The plc and QPR went into administration in April 2001, but following a refinancing package finalised by the directors last week, the company has been able to pay off its creditors.
Chief executive David Davies said: "This is wonderful news and the conclusion of one of the darkest periods of our history. Having the administration order lifted marks the end of more than a year of tough financial decisions and hard work.
"This would not have been possible were it not for the commitment of coaches, players and backroom staff and the hard work of our administrators."
Mr Davies said, however, that one of the major factors in pulling the club back from the brink had been the supporters: "None it would have been possible without the support of the QPR fans. After seeing the club placed in administration, relegated and then lose more than half of our squad, they stuck by us in record numbers and continue to do so."
He went on to say that he felt the hard lessons learned would benefit the club in the future - "gone are the days when players will be paid excessive wages" - at a time when many clubs are on the verge of calling in the administrators. In the past, QPR had been highlighted as being run "on the economics of the madhouse."
But Mr Davies warned that although coming out of administration was a major step forward, much remained to be done on and off the field, although he was optimistic that the hard work of manager Ian Holloway and others would bear fruit.
"We don't suddenly have a magic wand to wave and make everything better. We are not suddenly flush with cash. With hard work and passion, we will improve this club but by bit and season by season.
"Ian Holloway has restored pride to the team and brought together a hungry and talented bunch of players. With the handcuffs of administration finally removed, we can start to build a solid future for QPR."
http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/search/display.var.183687.0.qpr_on_road_to_cash_recovery.php


QPR 1st from Four Years Ago
http://www.qpr1st.co.uk/newspages/may2002.htm


More Stories re ABC & QPR (and also Derby County)
http://qprreport.blogspot.com/2006/04/abc-qpr-derby-county-looking-back.html

Friday, May 26, 2006

Dunga Speaks About QPR

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Dunga Interviewed by QPR World

Sporting Life
"Brazil legend Dunga believes QPR are capable of reaching the play-offs next season after becoming a director at Loftus Road.
Dunga - who captained Brazil to victory in the 1994 World Cup - was appointed a non-executive director of the club in September last year, when Gianni Paladini took over as chairman.
"We need to look at getting into the play-offs," Dunga told the club's official website. "This is a big club, and it is what the fans want.
"The most important thing is to build foundations here. You cannot always be changing from one day to the next.
"At any club, a manager needs to be given the chance to work effectively."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/cc_championship/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=nonwire_soccer/06/05/26/manual_160354.html&TEAMHD=nationwide1


QPR OFFICIAL SITE
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~833154,00.html

Monday, May 22, 2006

Holloway's Dream of Managing Ipswich

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EADT 24 (Sussex and Essex Newspaper online)
Dowie may join Town manager shortlist
22 May 2006 07:30
DEREK DAVIS

".....The Blues have conducted a number of initial interviews already and more will take place today and tomorrow.Once the shortlist has been drawn up candidates will be invited to meet the full Town board before a third and final interview takes place.....
Meanwhile, Ian Holloway last night told the EADT that he would love a crack at managing Ipswich and has applied for the job.The EADT revealed on Saturday how Holloway was a leading candidate and was believed to be among the early list of prospects that had met with Sheepshanks and Bowden.Holloway admitted he had been in talks with a couple of league clubs but would not say which clubs.
Holloway said: “I would be in dreamland if I thought I was in with a chance of managing Ipswich. My agent has sent my CV to them, as he has a lot of other clubs.“I have nothing but the highest regard and admiration for Ipswich - it is a massive club.“
I have always loved going to Portman Road, back from when I came on as a substitute in the FA Youth Cup many years ago when I was with Bristol Rovers and we had a certain Geraint Williams in midfield for us.“We had steak and chips before the game and a meal after, before we came back to Bristol. I never forgot that hospitality and it is still as good today.“It is a wonderful club. I have met Mr Sheepshanks in the past and he is a real gentleman, while Joe Royle is an absolute hero of mine.“I would love to manage Ipswich, and good luck to the man who does get the job.”Millwall and Yeovil are among a number of clubs who are also thought to be keen on Holloway.
http://www.eadt.co.uk/content/eadt/sport/story.aspx?brand=EADOnline&category=IpswichTownFC&tBrand=EADOnline&tCategory=zsport&itemid=IPED22%20May%202006%2007%3A22%3A35%3A160

Saturday, May 20, 2006

Ex-QPR Super Star, Clive Allen Turns 45

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Clive Allen...Born May 20, 1961

Son of QPR great,Les Allen...Brother of Bradley Allen....Cousin of Martin Allen...

Made his debut in 1978/79 including a hatrick versus Coventry, on his full debut.

The following season was leading scorer in the old Second Division (playing alongside Paul Goddard).

Allen was then Sold to Arsenal...First Million Pound Teenager...

After a month at Arsenal, joined Crystal Palace.

And the following year was back at QPR, where he spent three season (including the Cup Final Season) and played three times for England, before going to Spurs. (Allen was injured early during the Cup Final. Otherwise, who's to say the final result)


See:
See: http://www.answers.com/topic/clive-allen
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clive_Allen

http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=31

Monday, May 15, 2006

"The Trial" - Update

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Tracy Stent/QPR 1st on Trial

May 15, 2006 The Trial Continues - Day 8
http://www.qpr1st.co.uk/main/newsarticle.asp?id=68


Former QPR Chairman Bill Power "ivolvement with the QPR Court case" Necessitates Swindon Forum Postponement.

Swindon Official Site - Forum Cancelled

The Fans Forum, scheduled to take place on Tuesday evening, has now been postponed until further notice. The evening was scheduled to go ahead at The County Ground on Tuesday evening, with new Director Bill Power scheduled to attend. However, due to Power's involvement with the QPR Court case, he will be unable to attend and the club are hoping to confirm a new date shortly. http://www.swindontownfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10341~826262,00.html

Week II of "The Trial"

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The second week of "The Trial"...

Published Trial Reports are further down this blog or at http://ontrial.blogspot.com/

Mark Kennedy Turns 30...Garry Chivers Turns 46

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Mark Kennedy - May 15, 1976
For one brief shining moment, winger, Mark Kennedy was on loan at QPR and there were hopes we'd be signing him. Unfortunately QPR and Liverpool couldnt agree/Liverpool wanted him back...and a few months later, Kennedy joined Wimbledon. Later the ex-Millwall player joined Manchester City and is now at Wolves.
In 1997-1998, Kennedy was on loan from Liverpool at Ray Harford's QPR. Played 8 scored 2. His final game was QPR's 5-0 win vs Middlesbrough.
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=11731


Also Garry Chivers Turns 46.
Terry Venables signed the former Chelsea defender on a free from Swansea in 1983-1984
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=383

Sunday, May 14, 2006

Former QPR Goalie, Peter Springett - Would have been 60 (May 8)

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Peter Springett

Very unfortunately missed marking his birthday by a few days...

May 8 would have been former QPR Goalie, Peter Springett's 60th Birthday. Very sadly, he died in 1998.

Peter Springett, brother of former QPR and England goalie, Ron Springett, played for QPR in the early-to mid 1960s (including the 1966/67 Division 3 Championship team and the League Cup Final).
Peter Springett then was sold to Sheffield Wednesday with brother Ron Springett returning to QPR from Sheffield Wednesday as partial payment.
After retiring from football, Peter Springett became a policeman.

Saturday, May 13, 2006

Holloway for Millwall?

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Vital Football/Millwall
Ian Holloway is ready to accept the challenge of leading Millwall back to the Championship.
Former QPR manager Holloway has been interviewed by new chairman Stewart Till and admits he would love to take the job. Till has been speaking to several candidates to succeed David Tuttle including Peter Reid, Stan Ternant, Ray Lewington and Paul Hart.Holloway, who has also spoken to Stoke about their vacant manager's position ....insists Millwall would be the perfect opportunity.
Holloway told the Bromley Times: 'I had an interview with them last week and I was very impressed.'I was there for two and a half hours and they were nice people. The new chairman seems a good bloke.'It is the responsibility of the board and whoever they choose as manager to get things moving forward because it is a big job.'But I'm looking forward to getting back into the game, this gardening leave is bad for your health.'.. ....
http://www.millwall.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=18682

Trial Update

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QPR 1st - Trial Update Report for May 12
May 12, 2006The Trial Continues - Day 7
http://www.qpr1st.co.uk/main/newsarticle.asp?id=67



BBC - Friday, 12 May 2006,

Boy mascot 'unaware of gun drama'


A young football mascot ran out onto the pitch unaware his grandfather - who was a club director - had just been threatened with a gun, a court heard.
Gianni Paladini was allegedly forced to sign papers resigning from Queen's Park Rangers only minutes before they played Sheffield United.
Blackfriars Crown Court heard his grandson Gianluca was the club mascot.
Seven men deny false imprisonment, conspiracy to blackmail and possession of a firearm.
Mr Paladini's son, Stephen, told the court his nephew, Gianluca, had been chosen to be QPR's mascot for the day and had run out onto the pitch with his heroes just before the first match of the season on 13 August 2005.
But the prosecution claims that at the same time Mr Paladini Sr, a 60-year-old former football agent, was being terrorised by a gang under the orders of David Morris.
The trial has already heard how Mr Morris had asked to have a word with Mr Paladini Sr in the chief executive's suite at the Loftus Road ground in west London.

Mr Paladini said the ordeal began before a home match
He was then allegedly surrounded by several men, threatened with a gun and forced to sign documents handing over his controlling shares in the club.
Mr Paladini Jr said his father managed to escape from the men and eventually alerted the police.
Mr Morris, 50, is charged along with Andy Baker, 40, from Somerset; Barry Powell, 34, and John McFarlane, 39, both from west London; Aaron Lacey, 36, from Watford; David Davenport, 38, from Buckinghamshire; and Michael Reynolds, 45, from north London.
The trial continues.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/4766795.stm

Friday, May 12, 2006

Holloway one of Number of names "Mentioned" re Ipswich Job

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[NB: Presumably Holloway-to-Ipswich is a rather highly unlikely possibility]

Mowbray next for Blues top job?
EADT 24 "Suffolk and Essex Daily Paper online" 12 May 2006

DEREK DAVIS

"TONY Mowbray has been instantly tipped as the Blues' new manager following Joe Royle's departure.Blues chairman David Sheepshanks last night said: “The process of looking for a new manager has started and we are seeking applicants but I can assure you that we have not approached or spoken to anyone yet.” Other names already being bandied about include Phil Parkinson at Colchester, Terry Westley - who was until recently Derby County's caretaker boss - Terry Butcher, Steve Foley, Ian Holloway, Alan Curbishley and Martin O'Neill....
"....Former QPR boss Holloway has made no secret of his desire to manage Town and almost put his application in while giving a post-match press conference at Portman Road earlier this season....
http://www.eadt.co.uk/content/eadt/sport/story.aspx?brand=EADOnline&category=IpswichTownFC&tBrand=EADOnline&tCategory=zSport&itemid=IPED11%20May%202006%2022%3A31%3A25%3A970

"The Trial" - May 10 & 11: Brief Summaries from QPR 1st

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From Tracy Stent on QPR1st


The Trial Continues - Day 5 - May 10, 2006
http://www.qpr1st.co.uk/main/newsarticle.asp?id=65


The Trial Continues - Day 6 - May 11, 2006
http://www.qpr1st.co.uk/main/newsarticle.asp?id=66

Thursday, May 11, 2006

Ex-QPR Chairman, Bill Power on Former QPR Manager, Ian Holloway & Swindon

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HOLLOWAY TALK JUST HOW AIR, SAYS POWER
Western Daily Press 11 May 2006

Bill Power has moved to crush rumours that Swindon Town have spoken to Ian Holloway about a managerial role at the club. Former QPR and Bristol Rovers boss Holloway is out of work and is good friends with ex-QPR chairman and new Swindon director Power.Speculation has suggested Holloway could be brought in to work with, above or instead of current Swindon boss Iffy Onuora.
There were even reports that Holloway was due to attend Town's final game of the season last Saturday, although in the event he was at Bristol Rovers' match with Macclesfield.The charismatic Bristolian is understood to have been interviewed for a job in recent weeks, though not at Swindon.
And Power, who will invest an initial 1million into Swindon, said he had no immediate plans to offer his old friend a position at the County Ground.
"I am very friendly with Ollie but we have not discussed Ollie coming to Swindon at all, " said Power last night."
The most important thing in Ollie's life at the moment is preparing for the Edinburgh Marathon, which he is running for charity, and that's all I have been chatting to him about."
And he wasn't at the game on Saturday. I heard all those rumours and I think someone is having a laugh."
I have not said one word to him about Swindon Town Football Club - there is no discussion going on about that."
He is a friend of mine and a good man but we are not trying to slip him in the back door." Asked if there was any chance Holloway could be approached in the future, Power said the club's hierarchy had been busy discussing the best way forward following relegation to League T wo.
And he said that Onuora would probably join those discussions tomorrow.Power said: "Myself, Mark Devlin, Mike Diamandis and Sir Seton Wills have been sat in discussions for the last week trying to work out what is the best thing for Swindon Town Football Club."
But like everything, the more the committee talks about it, the more it gets vague and unmanageable."We are trying to cover every little angle so we hit the floor running next season. We want to make sure everything is right, because if it is not, we will get hammered, and rightly so."
We have not had a chance to sit down with Iffy yet because he has been buzzing around sorting things out with the players."But that's the next thing on the list and will probably happen on Friday." When it was suggested that all the signs indicated that Onuora would remain in place for next season, Power replied: "Totally. We need to sit down and tell him our plans and listen to h i s."
But in terms of Ollie, we would not go behind Iffy's back like it has been suggested we have. We would not do that to him."
http://www.westpress.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=145787&command=displayContent&sourceNode=145780&contentPK=14464004&folderPk=69656

Ex-QPR Lewis Hamilton released by Aldershot

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Ex-QPR Lewis Hamilton released by Aldershot

See BBC Aldershot boss Brown wields axe

Aldershot Official Site

" Manager Terry Brown announced the first of the close season movements on Friday evening with the news that five players have departed the Recreation Ground.
The five discussed were captain Steve Watson, Lewis Hamilton, Hassan Sulaiman, Tobi Jinadu and Dan Weait. Talking to www.theshots.co.uk ...
" Lewis Hamilton and Hassan Sulaiman the boss continued, "Both are young lads who have shared the right back spot for a large proportion of the season. They are really keen and both have ability. However I am going on the basis that we need to change our defensive approach for next season."
"We conceded 74 goals last season and we need a solid unit. That means that we have to change the way we play and that is at an expense to the young boys who are quick and have pace but I need a "steady eddie" sort of right back who will be more defence orientated. There is keen interest in both boys and I don't foresee them having any problems getting a contract elsewhere".
Hassan made 29 appearance since his arrival from Wigan Athletic in the summer whilst Lewis Hamlton featured on 32 occasions after arriving from QPR. http://www.theshots.co.uk/newspage.ink?nid=27368&newstype=n&matchid=


And Aldershot's Ex-QPR Goalie, Nikki Bull rumoured moving to Bristol City

http://www.aldershottown-mad.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=282430


Wednesday, May 10, 2006

Ex-QPR's Tony Thorpe Released by Colchester

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BBC - Parkinson allows quartet to leave
Parkinson allows quartet to leave Boss Phil Parkinson has begun shaping Colchester's squad for their first season in the Championship by releasing four players, reports BBC Essex.
Defenders Sam Stockley and Stephen Hunt will leave Layer Road, as will strikers Tony Thorpe and Gareth Williams. ..Thorpe, 32, had only joined in January, while Hunt, 21, missed much of the season with an ankle injury. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/colchester_united/4759031.stm

One-Time QPR Target, Peter Thompson Profiled

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Belfast Today - "HE'S THE REAL DEAL

PETER Thompson had precious little time to celebrate his special contribution to Linfield folklore....
"..."There is always rumour we may lose him. Peter knows if a decent offer comes in for him we will not stand in his way. It is the same with any of our players. "As soon as we have anything concrete we let the player concerned know. Peter knew every single time there was an offer made by Gretna. He knew about the interest by Queens Park Rangers. They were the only clubs that made any approach."
http://www.belfasttoday.net/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=3426&ArticleID=1488754

Paladini on More Possible Players - (Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times)

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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - May 10, 2006
Two more on the way

And he is set to land two more in the near future, including Australian World Cup hopeful Nick Ward, 21, from Perth Glory.The under-23 international midfielder was on trial with Leicester earlier this season and has been officially labelled one of the top 15 young prospects in world football by FIFA. Rangers are also set to sign a right-back who, like Ward, will fit into the kind of age bracket preferred by both Waddock and chairman Gianni Paladini.

"You don't rest on your laurels and we want to bring in young players, who will be an investment for the club - players of 21, 22, 23 and the occasional one of 27, 28, 29," said Paladini."We're building a team for the next three years. We've got to have good lads who make a difference to the team, don't cause problems and fit into the system that Gary wants to play." We haven't released players without considering how to replace them and we've been working for the last two months, looking for people to bring in. Our aim is to sign about six or seven before the start of next season." Provided we bring in the right players, we'll be OK - Watford brought in the right players last year - not many, but look at the change."Millwall got rid of their best players and look what happened to them."

.....The club are also hoping to finalise a new one-year contract with left-back Mauro Milanese in the coming weeks... http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/content/camden/kilburntimes/sport/story.aspx?brand=KLBTOnline&category=sportfootball&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=sportklbt&itemid=WeED10%20May%202006%2011%3A17%3A25%3A680

Paladini Q&A (from Ben Kosky/ Kilburn Times)

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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - May 10, 2006
Exclusive Gianni Paladini interview


[See full Q&A at http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/content/camden/kilburntimes/sport/story.aspx?brand=KLBTOnline&category=sportfootball&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=sportklbt&itemid=WeED10%20May%202006%2011%3A13%3A18%3A417

How soon do you expect to appoint the new manager?
"It's public knowledge that Gary will be the manager and Macca will be his assistant - the players all know that, so let's make it clear and there's no confusion about it."Gary wants to be his own man and he'll bring in his own people."
I cannot believe that Ollie will be out of work for the next two years - he's an up and coming manager, very popular and I'm positive he'll get a job by the end of this month. If he doesn't, we'll have to do something about it."

With hindsight, do you feel you handled Ian Holloway's situation in the right way?

"When I meet other chairmen, there's not one that doesn't think I did the right thing and they all think they'd do the same.
"If Gary, after three months, said he wanted to go and speak with, say, Birmingham City or Manchester United when he has a two-year contract with me, it's the end."Goodbye, don't bother to collect your stuff - I'll send it to you. It's as simple as that."What amazes me is this - a player under contract cannot be approached by another club, or they get fined. A manager under contract can be approached by another club, go and talk to them and he doesn't get fined by anybody."I don't see how that can work. Leicester approached me and I don't think it should be allowed for them to ask when my manager is under contract for another two and a half years."

The season ended with a very poor run of results under Gary Waddock, so why do you feel he is the right man to take QPR forward?

"My personal view is that I've enjoyed the football under Gary - we played some very good games against Norwich and Reading recently."I really don't have much time for people who say 'good luck, bad luck' - I'm looking at the way we play."There was never any danger of us going down and in our division it makes no difference to be 21st or seventh. It's about whether you are preparing for next season."The reason why we played some younger players and stuck to that in the last five or six games was to see the strength of what we've got in the camp."It's only fair to Gary to judge him on the players he brings in. If we're unsuccessful next season, it'll be a problem and he knows that."

Is it realistic to expect a push for the top six next season while you're trying to cut costs?"

Unless they live on Mars or the Moon, everybody knows that unless you get success, the fans won't stand for you and we're all in the same boat. I don't want to come here and not enjoy the games."
It will be the fourth year since I became involved with QPR and I've never been in a position where we're fighting relegation. I want us to be in a good position by Christmas to challenge for the play-offs and, if we're not, Gary knows the situation."
Queens Park Rangers fans are not stupid - they're brought up to be entertained and they like good football, so I think they understand what we're trying to do."The good news is that we are up on ticket sales compared with this time last year, so people are already responding."

What's the financial state of the club compared to when you took over as chairman?"Things are much better - we expect to be able to bring our loss to a manageable level, between £200,000 and £300,000 next season. We have a new shirt sponsor and we hope to have a different sponsor for the shorts as well."We've reduced our budget for next season. This year was £5.5m and next year will be nearer £4m - that's our plan for the next three years and this is why we're reducing the number of players."There are just too many players and we seem to have the longest squad list wherever we go. We want to have a squad of about 25, that's more or less what teams like Watford have got."

How has the squad size been allowed to balloon - is it a direct result of signing players with persistent injury problems such as Dean Sturridge?

"To be fair, Sturridge's record was outstanding - he scored goals left, right and centre and I'm not blaming Ollie for the fact that it didn't work out."He felt Sturridge was worth a gamble and we took it, but when you cut open the melon it's not always nice and red.""At any club, you can have the best players in the world, but if they're injured through silly things, you're forced to get more players in all the time."That's what happened to Ollie this year - we got seven players in during the summer and he had to bring more because of the injuries. Players' wages have to be paid, but we also have to pay the bills."

I don't want people injured all the time for no reason. It was always the same - hamstring, hamstring, hamstring - and something can't be right there."I believe that going to Ibiza last summer wasn't the best preparation, especially working on the plastic pitch and I won't take the team there again."In Italy there will be better training facilities - and also it's an easy way for me to get home for a week!
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/content/camden/kilburntimes/sport/story.aspx?brand=KLBTOnline&category=sportfootball&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=sportklbt&itemid=WeED10%20May%202006%2011%3A13%3A18%3A417

"The Trial" - Further Reporting

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Daily Mirror - 10 May 2006
QPR CHIEF HAD DEBTS

THE QPR director who says a rival forced him to quit at gunpoint is a broke chancer who bluffed his way on to the club board, a court heard yesterday.
Gianni Paladini, 60, says he made a fortune as a football agent. But yesterday he admitted he was so heavily in debt that a bank had tried to have him declared bankrupt.
And defence barrister James Sturman QC told him: "You are far from an honourable businessman. You bulls*****d your way on to the board."
Club director David Morris, 50, and six other men deny conspiracy to blackmail, false imprisonment and having a gun. The Blackfriars crown court trial continues. http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=17055480&method=full&siteid=94762&headline=qpr-chief-had-debts--name_page.html


A May 5, The Times (Not previously posted here - I believe)

The Times - May 05, 2006
A former player with a flair for businessBy Steve Bird


GIANNI PALADINI moved to Britain in 1968 shoon after his career as a professional footballer in Italy ended when he suffered a serious injury.
In 1980 he worked as an interpreter for football agents who were brokering deals to transfer Italian players to British football clubs. Realising that he was working in a highly lucrative market, he set himself up in business and became a successful agent.
In March 2004 he decided to invest £600,000 in Queens Park Rangers, securing a 21 per cent share of the club; after restructuring this fell to 14.7 per cent. The purchase was made through a company called Morbund Ltd. Mr Paladini was then employed by the club as a consultant to bring in new players.
His “hands on” approach, the court was told, upset others at QPR. But he got on well with the chairman, Bill Power.
Mr Paladini, from Solihull, West Midlands, introduced a number of potential investors to the club, the Brazilian footballer, Dunga, bought £500,000 of shares through a company called Barnabi.
Last year Antonio Caliendo, a close friend of Mr Paladini, gave the club a cash injection to help it to settle an outstanding tax liability.
The court was told that Mr Paladini could be confrontational and that when David Morris became more involved in the day-to-day running of the club the pair clashed. Their disputes were said to include plans to refurbish parts of the stadium.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-2165789.html

Tuesday, May 09, 2006

2006/07 Fixtures Announced, June 22...QPR vs Gillingham Friendly, July 22

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BBC - LEAGUE FIXTURES RELEASED
"The Football League has announced that their fixtures for the 2006/07 season will be published on Thursday, 22 June at 1000 BST....The new season will begin on Saturday, 5 August ...http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/4754125.stm


QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Gillingham Friendly, July 22
QPR will take on Gillingham in a pre-season friendly on July 22 .... at the Priestfield Stadium at 3pm ..... The next day, the team will fly out to Sorrento for the week long tour to Italy ....Rangers' fixture against Aldershot Town at the Recreation Ground on July 8. http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~827464,00.html

"The Trial" - Tuesday Reporting

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http://www.five.tv/news/?id=13522999&type=top_stories

QPR Boss 'Bluffed Way Into Job'


The QPR boss at the centre of the so-called 'Sopranos' trial has been accused of bluffing his way into the directorship and of exaggerating his wealth and experience. Gianni Paladini, 60, spent a tense morning being cross-examined in the witness box at Blackfriars Crown Court. It followed his claims he was held in a room by a rival director and six "hired thugs", beaten and forced to sign a letter of resignation.
The defence counsel accused him of lying about his abilities when he went for the directorship.
Co-director David Morris and six others face charges of conspiracy to commit blackmail and possession of a firearm. The court has heard that Mr Paladini, the majority shareholder, was lured into a room at the Loftus Road ground by Morris and was threatened into giving up his directorship. At one stage, a gun was placed on the table in front of him. He was also punched and slapped by the other men in the room, the court was told. David Williams, prosecuting counsel, told the jury when the trial opened that the case was similar to an episode of the hitn US TV series The Sopranos. All seven men deny the charges.
The case continues. http://www.five.tv/news/?id=13522999&type=top_stories


QPR 1st Report's Tracy Stent Report
http://www.qpr1st.co.uk/main/newsarticle.asp?id=64

"The Trial" - Gianni Paladini's Monday Testimony

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The Sun -Chief weeps at QPR trial
By SIMON HUGHES

SOCCER chief Gianni Paladini wept yesterday as he told a court how he was forced to sign over his club shares — with a gun pressed to his head.
The QPR chairman, 60, said he was punched and threatened with a pistol after being ambushed by fellow director David Morris and six thugs in a Sopranos-style takeover at the club’s London ground.
Referring to Morris, he said: “He slapped me twice. I was terrified.
“The gentleman next to me was saying: ‘Sign the paper. We’ll kill you.’ ”
The boss, whose style ruffled feathers, said one thug snarled: “We do this because we love QPR.”
He claimed he felt something pressing into his head, adding: “It could have been a finger, it could have been a gun.”
Mr Paladini told Blackfriars Crown Court that after he joined the board several directors had pocketed a £500,000 loan.
Asked if he ever threatened to kill club manager Ian Holloway, he replied: “In a funny way, yes, but it didn’t mean anything.”
Morris, 50, of Chalfont St Giles, Bucks, and six others deny blackmail, imprisonment and having a firearm. Trial continues. http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2006210214,00.html


The Mirror - 9 May 2006
SIGN OR DIE..CAPICHE? Rival 'forced QPR boss to quit'
By Adrian Shaw

A FOOTBALL club boss yesterday told a court he was forced to sign a resignation letter at gunpoint by a boardroom rival and his hired thugs.
QPR director Gianni Paladini, 60, said he was handed the letter by David Morris and six henchmen after a fall-out over the way the Championship club was run.
The Italian-born tycoon sobbed as he told the court the thugs surrounded him in an office at the club, punching and slapping him be fore one pulled a pistol.
He added: "A man at the back of me told me 'Come on, sign. Sign or we'll kill you.'
"A man standing next to me said 'We are serious people, we don't mess about.' He tried to use Italian saying, 'Capiche?' That means do you understand?
"Something was pressed into my head which I thought might be a gun while the man next to me punched me in the stomach.
"I just signed. I didn't want to take any more."
Mr Paladini said he was taken to the office by Morris for a chat about shares minutes before QPR kicked off against Sheffield United. But the six men, described as "hired muscle" burst in, Black-friars crown court heard.
After Mr Paladini signed the letter, Morris allegedly told him: "The boys will teach you now what life is all about."
The court heard that the terrified dad-of-two was then repeatedly slapped and punched.
Morris and several other men were later arrested in one of the club's executive boxes.
Mr Paladini, an ex-player turned agent, had sunk around £600,000 into the cash-strapped West London side and was the majority shareholder.
But he had a series of bitter clashes with other board members, including Morris.
Morris, 50, and six other men deny conspiracy to black-mail, false imprisonment and possessing a firearm. The trial continues. a.shaw@mirror.co.uk
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=17050933&method=full&siteid=94762&headline=sign-or-die--capiche---name_page.html


THE TIMES May 09, 2006
QPR boss in tears as he tells of attackBy Steve Bird
QPR football director tells court how he was ordered to resign

A DIRECTOR of Queens Park Rangers Football Club broke down in tears yesterday as he told a jury how he was held at gunpoint and ordered to resign and give up his £600,000 stake in the club.
Gianni Paladini, 60, wept as he explained how he thought that he was going to be shot dead or thrown out of a window in the boardroom ordeal.
Blackfriars Crown Court was told that the hostage situation, likened to a scene from the television gangster series The Sopranos, resulted in armed police raiding an executive box at the West London club.
The Italian businessman, now the chairman of QPR, said that he had taken his family to see his team play Sheffield United at Loftus Road stadium, Shepherds Bush, last August when the attack happened.
He said that David Morris, 50, a director at the club, asked to have a chat before kick-off in the chief executive’s office. There, he said, six well-built men entered the room. One placed a gun on the table and another pushed something, possibly another pistol, into the back of his head.
Mr Paladini said: “I knew that I was in trouble. Mr Morris completely changed his attitude. He slapped me twice. He became aggressive and took some papers and said he wanted me to sign them. The man sitting next to me said, ‘We will kill you’. The other guy said: ‘We are serious people, we don’t mess about’ . . . I started to panic when the other man took a gun out of his pocket. I thought: ‘That’s it’.”
Mr Paladini was accused of threatening Mr Morris’s family, and was punched in the stomach. “They took some blank paper and wanted me to sign,” Mr Paladini continued. “David Morris dictated to me what to put on the paper. They were shouting: ‘I will kill you now’. There was all kinds of panic.”
Mr Paladini said that he was ordered to address the letter to Bill Power, then the chairman of the club. “I did sign it. I didn’t want to take any more. At one point the big fellow at the back opened the window and I thought they were going to throw me out of it,” he said.
“David Morris then said, ‘The boys will now teach you what life is all about’.” He said that he was punched and led from the room, when his son, Stephen, was seen walking towards them. One of the gang threatened to break Stephen’s neck unless he left, Mr Paladini said. Moments later Mr Paladini ran into the chairman’s lounge, and raised the alarm.
The prosecution says that Mr Morris hired Andrew Baker, 40, to provide five men to force Mr Paladini to resign as a director and sell his shares.
During half-time, armed police raided the executive box and arrested Mr Morris, Mr Baker, Aaron Lacey, 37, Barry Powell, 34, and John McFarlane, 39. A resignation note in Mr Paladini’s writing and £7,000, said to be the wages for the “heavies”, were also found. David Davenport, 38, and Michael Reynolds, 45, were arrested leaving the ground.
Mr Morris, from Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, Mr Baker, from North Petherton, Somerset, Mr Lacey, from Watford, Mr McFarlane, from Hayes, and Mr Powell, from Greenford, both West London, Mr Reynolds, from Wood Green, North London, and Mr Davenport, from Chesham, Berkshire, all deny possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, false imprisonment and conspiracy to blackmail.
Mr Paladini will be cross-examined today http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,200-2171240,00.html

Monday, May 08, 2006

Trial Proceedings - Update

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Trial Proceedings Update - May 8, 2006

BBC QPR boss recalls gunpoint threats

"The Trial" Continued: QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini Tells The Jury

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TRIAL (Continued) - May 8, 2006

QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini today started telling the jury what happened the day.


Ananova - QPR director tells of gun ordeal
A football club boss wept as he told a jury how he was ordered to resign at gunpoint by a rival.
Gianni Paladini, 60, the majority shareholder at Queens Park Rangers, claimed his "frightening" ordeal began when fellow director David Morris asked if he could have a word minutes before the start of a home game.
"He said he needed to talk about some shares," the father-of-two explained. But no sooner had he been led into the chief executive's suite at the Loftus Road ground and sat down than a "large white man" also entered. Several other men - all "hired muscle" according to the Crown - immediately followed and quickly surrounded him. "Then I knew I was in trouble," he told London's Blackfriars Crown Court.
At that point, he claimed, Morris became "very aggressive", pulled some documents from his jacket pocket and told him to sign and resign from the club board.
"I was very frightened," Mr Paladini insisted.
"I didn't know why this was happening. I said, 'David, why are you doing this to me?' It was crazy.
"Then the man at the back of me told me, 'Come on sign, sign or we will kill you.' The man next to me then said, 'We are serious people, we don't mess about.' He tried to use Italian saying, "Capiche?" that means 'do you understand?'"
Mr Paladini told jurors that at that point a black man in front of him pulled a gun from his pocket and laid it on a table.
"The man behind me then pressed something into the back of my head which I thought might be a gun while the one sitting next to me punched me in the stomach and said he wanted me to sign the papers. But I didn't want to."
http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_1834722.html


AP - QPR director tells of gun ordeal
Press Association Monday May 8, 2006
QPR director tells of gun ordeal
Press Association Monday May 8, 2006 2:58 PM
A football club boss wept as he told a jury how he was ordered to resign at gunpoint by a rival.
Gianni Paladini, 60, the majority shareholder at Queens Park Rangers, claimed his "frightening" ordeal began when fellow director David Morris asked if he could have a word minutes before the start of a home game.
"He said he needed to talk about some shares," the father-of-two explained. But no sooner had he been led into the chief executive's suite at the Loftus Road ground and sat down than a "large white man" also entered. Several other men - all "hired muscle" according to the Crown - immediately followed and quickly surrounded him. "Then I knew I was in trouble," he told London's Blackfriars Crown Court.
At that point, he claimed, Morris became "very aggressive", pulled some documents from his jacket pocket and told him to sign and resign from the club board.
"I was very frightened," Mr Paladini insisted.
"I didn't know why this was happening. I said, 'David, why are you doing this to me?' It was crazy.
"Then the man at the back of me told me, 'Come on sign, sign or we will kill you.' The man next to me then said, 'We are serious people, we don't mess about.' He tried to use Italian saying, "Capiche?" that means 'do you understand?'"
Mr Paladini told jurors that at that point a black man in front of him pulled a gun from his pocket and laid it on a table.
"The man behind me then pressed something into the back of my head which I thought might be a gun while the one sitting next to me punched me in the stomach and said he wanted me to sign the papers. But I didn't want to."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uklatest/story/0,,-5807790,00.html

Linfield's Peter Thompson on His Future

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BBC - Thompson happy to stay with Blues

Linfield's striker Peter Thompson has said he would be happy to stay with the all-conquering Blues despite renewed interest from cross-channel clubs.
Thompson hit both Linfield goals as they beat Glentoran in the Nationwide Irish Cup final on Saturday.
That has fuelled speculation that Thompson, Linfield's only full-time professional, could soon be moving.
"I am happy to stay at Linfield and am already looking forward to pre-season training," said Thompson.
"I recently signed a three-year contract and any future move would have to be right for the club as well as me.
"I would like to play at as high a level as possible."

Linfield manager David Jeffrey said the club would not stand in Thompson's way if the right move came along.
"We have always kept him informed when clubs have made approaches," said Jeffrey.
"Peter knew every time there was an offer from Gretna and about the interest from Queen's Park Rangers. They were the only clubs which made any approach."

http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/irish/4983936.stm

Paladini's Playing Career Began at Napoli and Ended at Napoli

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On several occasions over the past few months, Giannia Paladini has stated very clearly: He was never a Juventus Player...Nor did he play for Italy...Nor was he a long-time professional player with Napoli.
Describing his early years, Paladini has detailed how his football career was restricted to some youth games with Napoli;, and that his hoped-for professional football "career" ended when he was 18 due to a knee injury. (See for example his recent Q&A with QPR Rivals
http://queensparkrangers.rivals.net/default.asp?sid=925&p=2&stid=8410350 - or a few months ago, his interview with QPR Net http://www.qprnet.com/interviews/paladini.shtml



30 Years Since The Dream Died...Liverpool Win the Championship

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LIVERPOOL WIN THE CHAMPIONSHIP

May 4, 1976 : Wolves 1 Liverpool 3. After leading 1-0 for a lot of the game, Wolves let Liverpool score 3 times in the last 20 minutes(Keegan, Toshack & Kennedy) and Liverpool were champions. A Wolves victory or a 2-2 draw would have made QPR Champions....

Liverpool's Results & Scorers in the 1975-1976 Season
http://www.liverweb.org.uk/197576.htm


Three decades ago, we lost the Championship...Two decades ago, we lost the Milk Cup Final to Oxford....One decade ago, we were relegated. And this year, I think most QPR supporters would agree that this season has been a pretty bad one as well.

Sunday, May 07, 2006

ONE DECADE SINCE QPR LEFT THE PREMIERSHIP

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A Decade Out of The Premiership

It's now a decade since QPR Played their last game in the Premiership: May 5, 1996 (Nottingham Forest 3 QPR 0 - Ray Wilkins's QPR's Team That day: Sommer; Bardsley (Ready, 67), Yates, McDonald (Plummer, h-t), Brevett, Barker, Murray, Wilkins (Charles, h-t), Gallen, Dichio, Sinclair).
We've regressed so far; gotten so into debt; lost so many good players; and the Premiership has advanced so far, with so much money at stake....



Final Match Report

Forest finish off QPR in emphatic style
Independent, The (London), May 6, 1996
Nottingham Forest 3 Queen's Park Rangers 0
Relegated QPR had no answer to a Nottingham Forest side determined to end their programme with a flourish. Forest, with only two points to show from their previous four games, were ordered by their manager, Frank Clark, to end the season in style.
Once Steve Stone had put them on the road in the last minute of the first half, Forest underlined their supremacy over Ray Wilkins' side with two second-half efforts from Bryan Roy and Bobby Howe.
Rangers had their moments, particularly with Trevor Sinclair showing the kind of quality touches that will be a great loss to the Premiership. But despite his promptings Rangers lacked the necessary fire power.
Stone's opener came after Ian Woan had fed the ball through. The England midfielder shrug- ged off a challenge before curling an effort past Jurgen Sommer in the Rangers goal.
Forest could easily have added to their lead in first-half injury time when Sommer failed to hold Colin Cooper's free-kick and young Paul McGregor lifted a close range effort over the bar. But Forest were in no mood to relinquish their grip on the game and in the 63rd minute Woan and Stone set up one of the easiest goals that Roy will ever score.
Kevin Gallen almost gave Rangers a hope when he was denied by Mark Crossley but in the 77th minute Forest confirmed their victory when Howe skipped clear to plant a left-foot volley well wide of Sommer. Rangers were in danger of total collapse at that stage and after substitute Andrea Silenzi had headed over from a Stuart Pearce corner, the Italian striker set up a chance which Roy somehow lifted over the top.
To their credit Rangers' following of over 2,000 stuck by their side right to the end but they were denied a consolation goal when Rufus Brevett got himself into a shooting position only to be denied by Crossley's athleticism
Clark was disappointed that his side were unable to do a lap of honour because of a pitch invasion on the final whistle. "The players wanted to acknowledge the support we have had, but it was just not possible in the circumstances," he said.
Goals: Stone (44) 1-0; Roy (63) 2-0; Howe (77) 3-0.
Nottingham Forest: Crossley; Pearce, Cooper, Chettle, Stone (Phillips, 72), Woan, Haaland (Lyttle, h-t), Howe, McGregor (Silenzi, 76), Bart-Williams, Roy.
Queen's Park Rangers: Sommer; Bardsley (Ready, 67), Yates, McDonald (Plummer, h-t), Brevett, Barker, Murray, Wilkins (Charles, h-t), Gallen, Dichio, Sinclair.
http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4158/is_19960506/ai_n14044343

Ex-QPR's Tony Sealy

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Tony Sealy Turns 47:
Born May 7, 1959

Signed by Terry Venables from Crystal Palace a few months after he joined QPR, Sealy played a few games that season (1980-1981) and a handful of games in our Cup Final season (not playing in any of the Cup games). But the following season, Sealy played a major role in our winning the 1982/1983 Championship and ended up as QPR's top goalscorer with 16 goals in 39 games.
In our season back in the First Division, Sealy played a few games, before being sold to Fulham

Sun "Gossip" Managerial Possibility, Dennis Wise - One Year Since Quit Millwall

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Soccernet: May 8, 2005 Wise resigns as Millwall manager

Dennis Wise has confirmed he has stepped down as Millwall manager following a meeting with new club chairman Jeff Burnige. The Lions player-boss led his team for the final time in today's goalless draw with Burnley, with the east Londoners ending the season in 10th place. He said: 'I've had a meeting with the new chairman, he told me his direction and I didn't agree.' Wise took the managerial reins at the New Den in October 2003, having joined the club as a player in September 2002. He made a mixed start, beating Sheffield United 2-0 but getting sent off just four minutes after bringing himself on as a substitute. The team reached the FA Cup final against the odds in the 2003-04 season, losing 3-0 to Manchester United in the final but claiming a place in the UEFA Cup. They were unable to make it to the group stages of the competition however as they lost 4-2 on aggregate to Hungarian side Ferencvaros.
Wise, sitting alongside outgoing chairman Theo Paphitis after the Burnley match, said: 'I have had a long chat with the players and have decided that as of now, I am stepping down as manager of Millwall. 'I feel that it is important that the new chairman is allowed to get on with things; he has made it clear that he wants a fresh start and I think it is only fair that he is allowed to get on with it. 'I came in with Theo and I'm going with Theo. As far as (assistant boss) Ray (Wilkins) is concerned, he is meeting Jeff Burnige on Tuesday, but he is totally separate to me.'
Paphitis added: 'Dennis felt it was right to step down at this time. 'He is a bit bigger than the 5ft 4in the fans sing about, and it takes a very, very big bloke to put the club before himself, which is what Dennis is doing. 'He could have stayed, but Dennis feels it is right for Jeff and the club to move on. 'I would personally like to thank him for providing us with a couple of the most memorable years of our lives; years that are unlikely to ever be repeated.' Wise continued: 'I would like to thank everyone at the club. I have loved Millwall, loved every single minute of it. They are a great bunch of lads here and the fans have just been fantastic. Absolutely fantastic.' http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=332936&cc=5739


SPORTING LIFE WISE RESIGNS AS MILLWALL BOSS
Dennis Wise quit as Millwall manager on Sunday - a year after guiding the Lions to the FA Cup final. The former England midfielder revealed his decision to surprised players just minutes after their final game of the season - a goalless draw with Burnley. With club chairman Theo Paphitis deciding to stand aside this summer, Wise's future at the New Den has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks. And he admitted he failed to "hit it off" with new chairman Jeff Burnige.
Wise said: "I've had a meeting with the new chairman, he told me his direction and I didn't agree. "We just didn't hit it off and I just want what is best for the club. "I've just told the lads in the dressing room and it has come as a big shock to them. "I've been thinking about it for a long time and I came to the decision that I started here with Theo and I want to go out with him. "This is all about Millwall and what is best for them. Having met with the chairman it was clear that me staying in charge was not in the best interest of the club. "I've loved my time with Millwall, I've found the fans brilliant. People told me the supporters were hard work here but they've been magnificent to me. "This season has exceeded all expectation, the lads are happy with what we have achieved over the last couple of years." Wise took the managerial reins at the New Den in October 2003, having joined the club as a player in September 2002. He made a mixed start, beating Sheffield United 2-0 but being sent off just four minutes after bringing himself on as a substitute. The team reached the FA Cup final against the odds in the 2003-04 season, losing 3-0 to Manchester United in the final but claiming a place in the UEFA Cup. They were unable to make it to the group stages of the competition however as they lost 4-2 on aggregate to Hungarian side Ferencvaros.
Wise confirmed assistant manager Ray Wilkins would hold talks with Burnige this week. Despite his resignation as manager, Wise still has one year left on his playing contract at the New Den. He refused to be drawn on his future on the pitch. Wise added: "I'm keen to let the new chairman get on with it and whoever the new manager is, it will be his choice which players stay and leave, including me. "I got one more year left on my playing contract but I'm not thinking about that. "I just want to relax now the season has finished, I've been delighted how things have gone this year. "Ray Wilkins is staying on in his capacity and he is having a meeting with the new chairman about his future on Thursday." Departing chairman Paphitis hailed Wise's contribution to the club's success. Paphitis said: "It was right for the club and right for the new chairman for Dennis to move on. "Dennis should be thanked for all his efforts. He has given the club and supporters the best two years of our lives." Wise's decision to quit brought drama following a game that offered very little...
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/05/05/08/SOCCER_Millwall_Snap.html&TEAMHD=soccer


(From BBC) Dennis Wise's Millwall path to the FA Cup Final
3rd Round: Millwall 2-1 Walsall: The Lions came from behind to defeat a Walsall side reduced to nine men
4th Round: Telford United 0-2 Millwall: Paul Ifill and Dennis Wise were on target to book Millwall's place in the FA Cup fifth round
5th Round: Millwall 1-0 Burnley: Danny Dichio's header was enough to send Millwall through at the New Den
QF: Millwall 0-0 Tranmere Rovers: A penalty miss from Kevin Muscat earned Tranmere an FA Cup quarter-final replay
QF Replay Tranmere Rovers 1-2 Millwall: Two early goals secured Millwall a place in their first FA Cup semi-final for 67 years
Semi Final Sunderland 0-1 Millwall: Tim Cahill's goal earned Millwall their first-ever FA Cup final at the expense of 10-man Sunderland
Final: Manchester United 3 Millwall 0

Saturday, May 06, 2006

Mark Devlin on the Benefits Ibiza had for QPR's Pre-Season Preparations

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Swindon Official Site - Book now for Ibiza
Swindon Town Football Club are taking part in Copa Ibiza 2006 .....
Swindon Town Deputy Chairman, Mark Devlin, travelled to the competition in 2005 with QPR and gave his thoughts. "There was a tremendous response from supporters last year with QPR and both the Management and Players got a lot out of the trip which proved to be extremely beneficial to the pre-season preparations. I know the supporters enjoyed it and I am sure our fans will now relish the opportunity of following the team abroad.
http://www.swindontownfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/CopaIbizaDetail/0,,10341~736899,00.html

QPR Interest in Dennis Wise? - The Sun

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[NB: To put it mildly, seems rather unlikely, especially given recent concrete Paladini pronouncements re Waddock being QPR Manager next season]

The Sun - May 6, 2006 -

DENNIS WISE is a leading contender to become boss at QPR.

The former Chelsea and England midfielder is still playing at Coventry.
But Wise, 39, wants a return to management and a move to his native London.
QPR supremo Gianni Paladini is likely to interview the man who guided Millwall to the FA Cup final two years ago.
Gary Waddock has been acting as caretaker-boss since Ian Holloway’s departure in February but Rangers finished just one place above the Championship relegation zone.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2006200915,00.html

Thursday, May 04, 2006

STILL Doing it: The Times refers to Paladini as "A former Italian football international ...who used to play for Juventus and Napoli..""

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The Times

QPR director 'forced to resign at gunpoint'By Philippe Naughton
David Morris is accused of organising the intimidation of the QPR chairman (Jack Hill/The Times)

A former Italian football international was forced at gunpoint to sign a letter resigning from the board of Queens Park Rangers in a scene like "something out of a gangster film," a court heard today.
Gianni Paladini, who used to play for Juventus and Napoli, was asked if he could "have a word" by David Morris, a fellow director, as the men prepared to watch the Championship club's first home game of this season.
But he soon found himself surrounded by hired thugs and forced to write out a resignation letter, London’s Blackfriars Crown Court was told.
David Williams, QC, prosecuting, told the jury: "I don’t know whether some of you watch television and see The Sopranos. This is like something out of a gangster film.
"It was against this scenario that Gianni Paladini was forced to write his own letter of resignation. He was shouted at, slapped and punched by the group until he complied. He had no means of escape and terrified for his safety did as he was told."
Mr Williams added: "It wasn’t the sort of share or boardroom struggle that you might expect in business papers or newspapers.Quite literally, a gun was produced and possibly another held to the head of Gianni Paladini."
At the time of the incident at QPR’s Loftus Road ground on August 13 last year, Mr Paladini, a former Fifa-accredited agent, owned a 14.7-per cent sake in the club, the court heard. He has since become its chairman.
While he was being held, the court heard, the club chairman Bill Power, who was aware that "something untoward" was occurring, went to find out what was happening but was blocked by a group of men who claimed to be acting "on the chairman’s orders".
Mr Power told them: "I am the f***ing chairman", but he was still not allowed to pass.
The court heard that Mr Paladini who had been asked to quit his position on the board of directors and surrender his shares, eventually managed to break free from his captors and ran screaming from them.
A member of catering staff was said to have called out of an open window to alert the police. Armed officers burst into Mr Morris’s executive box shortly after half-time in the game with Sheffield United and arrested him along with fellow defendants Andy Baker, Barry Powell, Aaron Lacey and John McFarlane.
In the executive box they found a screwed-up piece of paper apparently written by Mr Paladini in shaky handwriting as well as two bundles of cash totalling £7,000 which the Crown suggested were "wages for the heavies’ day work".
Earlier, two other defendants David Davenport and Michael Reynolds were arrested walking away from the ground.
Mr Williams said that Mr Baker was a security consultant who provided "muscle" for Mr Morris. All seven deny conspiracy to blackmail, false imprisonment and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear or violence.
Mr Williams told the court: "It may well be that Gianni Paladini had ruffled a few feathers since acquiring his shares in QPR and one of those he had upset appears to have been David Morris, recently appointed to the board himself, having lent financial support to the club’s ailing finances over a number of years.
"It seems that the catalyst, triggered perhaps, for the events of August 13th was the culmination of a number of disputes over how the club’s affairs were being managed as a result of which David Morris, rightly or wrongly, perceived that Paladini had made threats against himself and his family over the telephone during an argument with someone else.
"Whatever the reasons, by August 13 last year, there were those at QPR who wanted Gianni Paladini out and the chief amongst those people was David Morris."

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-2164992,00.html

Bradford's Colin Todd on Stewart's Departure to QPR

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Bradford Official Site - Damion Stewart agrees terms with QPR

Damion Stewart will play his last game for Bradford City on Saturday with the news that the 25-year old Jamaican has agreed a three-year contract with Championship side Queens Park Rangers. This is subject to him obtaining an extension to his work permit and he will sign on 1 July.
City manager Colin Todd said: "We were powerless as Damion is not our player, he has been with us on loan from Harbour View.
"Everything has been agreed between the player and his agent along with the other two clubs
. We could not compete as I understand there was a six-figure transfer fee involved.
"It is a blow. We tried to get him back on another year's loan but he obviously wanted the security elsewhere.
"I am sorry to see him go as he has been a credit to the club. I pride myself on having given him the opportunity after we saw him in action only once at Darlington pre-season and brought him over from Jamaica for the season.
"Who knows, things could have been different for him had Andrew Taylor not returned to Middlesbrough in January but he has done well for himself and others have tracked him since.
"From what I have been told, there were several other clubs interested as well."
Talking to the QPR website Stewart said: "I am delighted to have joined QPR. I enjoyed my time at Bradford but when the chance came up to play for a club in the Championship for a big club like QPR it was an easy decision to make."
http://www.bradfordcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10266~825462,00.html?ptvParm=

Also Signing for QPR ...Cameroon international Armel Tchakounte

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QPR Official Site - ARMEL ARRIVES
Cameroon international Armel Tchakounte has put pen to paper on a one year deal with the Hoops.
The 27 year-old, who trained with Rangers during the latter part of the season, today (Thursday) penned a one year deal - with an option of a second year - at Loftus Road.
Armel, whose previous clubs include Kitchee FC (Hong Kong), is a right footed, defensive midfielder, with great physical skills, high stamina and bags of experience in the top leagues in Africa and Asia.
"It's a dream come true to sign for an English club like QPR,'' Armel told qpr.co.uk.
"I really enjoyed my time training with the team during the last few weeks of the season and am glad I was rewarded with a contract.
"QPR are a big club and I'm really looking forward to playing at Loftus Road for the first time and helping the team next season.''
Hoops Caretaker Manager Gary Waddock was delighted to secure his second signing in as many hours, commenting: "Armel shone in training and will be a huge addition to this football club.
"He's a big, strong, powerful lad with great energy and will be a key player for us next season.''
Chairman Gianni Paladini believes the Hoops' latest signing will prove to be a firm favourite with the Rangers fans.
"He can run all day and has a never-say-die attitude. He will be a tremendous signing.
"Gary was really impressed with him in the three weeks he spent with us towards the end of last season and coupled with the other players we hope to bring in over the summer, we're really optimistic about the future.''
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~825405,00.html

"The Trial" Begins...BBC -"Gunman 'ordered QPR boss to quit'

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"The Trial" Begins

BBC Gunman 'ordered QPR boss to quit'

A football club director was ordered to quit at gunpoint after a boardroom battle with a rival, a court has heard.
Gianni Paladini was approached by fellow Queens Park Rangers director David Morris as they prepared to watch a match, Blackfriars Crown Court heard.
But he then found himself surrounded by men who forced him to write out a resignation letter, jurors were told.
Seven men, including Mr Morris, deny conspiracy to blackmail, false imprisonment and firearm possession.
On the day of a home game between QPR and Sheffield Utd, Mr Morris asked Mr Paladini for "a word", Blackfriars Crown Court was told.
This is like something out of a gangster film Prosecutor David Williams QC
But Mr Paladini found himself surrounded by "heavies" and being shouted at, slapped and punched until he complied with their demands, prosecutor David Williams QC said.
Mr Paladini owned a 14.7% stake in the club at the time, and was asked to resign from the board of directors and surrender his shares, it was claimed.
"He had no means of escape and terrified for his safety did as he was told," Mr Williams told jurors.
"I don't know whether some of you watch television and see The Sopranos.
"This is like something out of a gangster film.
"It was against this scenario that Gianni Paladini was forced to write his own letter of resignation."
Armed police burst into Mr Morris's executive box at the Loftus Road ground, shortly after half-time in the game with Sheffield United, Blackfriars Crown Court was told.
Mr Morris, 50, is standing trial alongside Andy Baker, Barry Powell, Aaron Lacey, John McFarlane, David Davenport and Michael Reynolds
It is alleged that Mr Baker was a security consultant who provided the "muscle" - allegedly the other five defendants. The trial continues. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/4972672.stm


REUTERS - QPR boardroom scene like gangster movie, court Told
May 4, 2006
LONDON, May 4 (Reuters) - Queens Park Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini was threatened with a gun in a boardroom battle that resembled a scene out of gangster movie, a court heard on Thursday.
Paladini, 58, was forced to write out a letter of resignation and to sign two documents surrendering his shares after being confronted by "hired muscle" during a match against Sheffield United, London's Blackfriars Crown Court was told.
David Williams QC, prosecuting, told the court: "He was shouted at, slapped and punched by the group until he complied. He had no means of escape and terrified for his safety did as he was told."
Seven men deny blackmail, false imprisonment and possession of a firearm or imitation firearm on August 13 last year at QPR's home ground, Loftus Road. They include 50-year-old club director David Morris and Andrew Baker, 39, from Somerset.
Opening the case Williams told the jury: "I don't know if you watch the Sopranos -- it was like something out of gangster movie.
"The case involves an attempt to coerce a majority shareholder of the famous West London football club Queens Park Rangers into resigning his position on the Board of Directors and to surrender his shares.
"However, this was no boardroom battle at a football club of the type which you might be familiar from the business or sports pages of the newspapers.
"Quite literally, a gun was produced and possibly held to the head of Gianni Paladini, who then owned a 14.7 per cent stake in the club.
"At the dictation of David Morris, a co-director of the club, he was forced to write out a letter of resignation and to sign two documents. To ensure that he did so he was intimidated by the presence of `hired muscle' provided by Baker.
"This all took place on Saturday August 13 last year -- QPR were playing at home against Sheffield United.
"Shortly before kick off Morris and Mr Paladini were both in the Chairman's suite on the second floor in the South Africa Road stand.
"Officials from both QPR and Sheffield United were enjoying the pre-match hospitality. Mr Paladini arrived at the ground with his daughter Kate, his son Stephen and grandson Gianluca.
ENTRY BARRED
"David Morris asked if he could have a word with Paladini and the two men went up another flight of stairs to the Chief Executive's Office to speak privately.
"Within minutes a group of around six men burst into the room including Baker.
"One of the group -- Baker -- sat next to Paladini, another stood immediately behind him. Others filled the room and took up positions which would have left Mr Paladini in no doubt of their intentions.
"A gun was produced -- real or imitation -- and was pointed at Mr Paladini before being placed on the table in front of him.
"From the rear he could feel something being pushed to the back of his head. He was never in a position to see if that was a gun or not but understandably feared that it was.
"It was against this scenario that Gianni Paladini was forced to write his own letter of resignation. He was shouted at, slapped and punched by the group until he complied.
"He had no means of escape and, terrified for his safety, did as he was told."
Officials were barred entry, including the then QPR Chairman Bill Power. Having signed, Paladini was told to leave with his family and never return, being paid for his shares later directly into his bank account.
The hearing continues. http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsarticle.aspx?type=footballNews&storyid=2006-05-04T122638Z_01_L04544719_RTRIDST_0_SPORT-SOCCER-QPR-COURT.XML&src=rss


SPORTING LIFE
QPR DIRECTOR QUIT AT 'GUNPOINT'

The boardroom at QPR turned into "something out of a gangster film" when a director was ordered to quit at gunpoint, a court has been told.
Gianni Paladini was asked if he could "have a word" by fellow director David Morris as the men prepared to watch QPR play a home game.
But he soon found himself surrounded by hired thugs and forced to write out a resignation letter, London's Blackfriars Crown Court was told.
David Williams QC, prosecuting, told a jury: "I don't know whether some of you watch television and see The Sopranos. This is like something out of a gangster film.
"It was against this scenario that Gianni Paladini was forced to write his own letter of resignation.
"He was shouted at, slapped and punched by the group until he complied. He had no means of escape and terrified for his safety did as he was told."
Mr Williams added: "It wasn't the sort of share or boardroom struggle that you might expect in business papers or newspapers.
"Quite literally, a gun was produced and possibly another held to the head of Gianni Paladini."
At the time of the incident at Loftus Road on August 13 last year, Mr Paladini owned a 14.7% stake in the club, the court heard.
Armed officers burst into Morris' executive box shortly after half-time in the game with Sheffield United and arrested him along with fellow defendants Andy Baker, Barry Powell, Aaron Lacey and John McFarlane.
In the executive box they found a screwed up piece of paper apparently written by Mr Paladini in shaky handwriting as well as two bundles of cash totalling £7,000 which the Crown suggested were "wages for the heavies' day work".
Earlier, two other defendants David Davenport and Michael Reynolds were arrested walking away from the ground.
Mr Williams said Baker was a security consultant who provided "muscle" for Morris, consisting of the other five defendants.
All seven deny conspiracy to blackmail, false imprisonment and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear or violence.
Baker, 40, is from Somerset; Morris, 50, is from Buckinghamshire; Powell, 34, is from Middlesex; Lacey, 36, is from Watford; McFarlane, 39, is from Middlesex; Davenport, 38, is from Buckinghamshire; and Reynolds, 45, is from north London. http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/05/04/manual_132429.html&TEAMHD=soccer


DAILY MAIL--QPR director 'told to quit at gunpoint'
A boardroom battle at a Championship football team turned into "something out of a gangster film" when a club director was ordered to quit at gunpoint by a rival, a court heard today.
Gianni Paladini was asked if he could "have a word" by fellow director David Morris as the men prepared to watch their team, Queens Park Rangers, play a home game.
But he soon found himself surrounded by hired thugs and forced to write out a resignation letter, London's Blackfriars Crown Court was told.
David Williams QC, prosecuting, told a jury: "I don't know whether some of you watch television and see The Sopranos. This is like something out of a gangster film.
"It was against this scenario that Gianni Paladini was forced to write his own letter of resignation.
"He was shouted at, slapped and punched by the group until he complied. He had no means of escape and terrified for his safety did as he was told."
Mr Williams added: "It wasn't the sort of share or boardroom struggle that you might expect in business papers or newspapers.
"Quite literally, a gun was produced and possibly another held to the head of Gianni Paladini."
At the time of the incident at QPR's Loftus Road ground on August 13 last year, Mr Paladini owned a 14.7 per cent stake in the club, the court heard.
While he was being held, the court heard, club chairman Bill Power who was aware that "something untoward" was occurring, went to find out what was happening but was blocked by a group of men who claimed to be acting "on the chairman's orders".
Mr Power told them: "I am the f****** chairman", but he was still not allowed to pass.
The court heard that Mr Paladini who had been asked to quit his position on the board of directors and surrender his shares, eventually managed to break free from his captors and ran screaming from them.
A member of catering staff was said to have called out of an open window to alert the police. Armed officers burst into Morris's executive box shortly after half-time in the game with Sheffield United and arrested him along with fellow defendants Andy Baker, Barry Powell, Aaron Lacey and John McFarlane.
In the executive box they found a screwed up piece of paper apparently written by Mr Paladini in shaky handwriting as well as two bundles of cash totalling £7,000 which the Crown suggested were "wages for the heavies' day work".
Earlier, two other defendants David Davenport and Michael Reynolds were arrested walking away from the ground.
Mr Williams said Baker was a security consultant who provided "muscle" for Morris, consisting of the other five defendants.
All seven deny conspiracy to blackmail, false imprisonment and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear or violence.
Baker, 40, is from Somerset; Morris, 50, is from Buckinghamshire; Powell, 34, is from Middlesex; Lacey, 36, is from Watford; McFarlane, 39, is from Middlesex; Davenport, 38, is from Buckinghamshire; and Reynolds, 45, is from north London.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=385118&in_page_id=1770

QPR Sign Bradford's Jamaican International Defender, Steward

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QPR Official Site - Stewart Signs

Jamaican international Damion Stewart has signed a three year contract with QPR - subject to obtaining an extension to his work permit.
The 25 year-old defender, who spent last season on loan at Bradford City from Caribbean Club champions Harbour View, today (Thursday) became Gary Waddock's first signing of the summer transfer window and will officially join on June 1 2006.
Stewart, who has amassed 30-plus appearances for his country and is due to line-up against England in a World Cup warm-up match at Old Trafford on June 3, passed a medical at Loftus Road this morning.
Nicknamed 'Stew Peas' by the Reggae Boyz, Stewart - at 6'2'' - is an athletic and tenacious defender with poise, speed and an effective no-nonsense style of defending.
"I'm delighted to have joined QPR,'' said Stewart.
"I enjoyed my time at Bradford but when the chance came up to play in the Championship for a big club like QPR it was an easy decision to make.
Stewart in action for the Bantams earlier this season
"I grew up watching QPR in the Premiership and hopefully we can return to the top flight in the future.''
Gary Waddock was equally as pleased to have clinched the signature of the established international.
"I'm very excited about him. He's an international footballer. He's big, strong and quick and is exactly what we're looking for.
"We're confident he'll complement the other defenders we've already got in our squad.''
Chairman Gianni Paladini echoed Waddock's words: "We're delighted to sign Damion.
"He's a great prospect and hopefully the first of many new additions this summer.
"We're building a side to take us forward over the next three years and Damion will be an integral part of that.'
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~825221,00.html


SOCCERBASE
From Soccerbase http://www.soccerbase.com/players_details.sd?playerid=35459 (Played 19+3 games for Bradford this season)

Profiled Last Summer

Jamaican international Damion Stewart a permit away from the Valley
by Gary Smith assisted by Andrew Fullerfor Caribbean Net News
Wednesday, June 22, 2005

LONDON, England: Reggae Boy Damion Stewart is set to join English Coca-Cola Football League One team Bradford City, subject to a work permit being issued.
If granted a permit, Stewart will link up with fellow countryman, goal keeper Donovan Ricketts at Valley Parade.
The Jamaica international central defender, currently with Caribbean Club champions Harbour View FC, has agreed to a one-year deal with Bradford. According to a release from the club, the deal had to be kept quiet until the final details were ironed out with his locally-based club.
However, Harbour View's general manager Clyde Jureidini said the deal had not yet been finalised because they still haven’t received the final documents.
Bradford's boss Colin Todd is eager to the sign the 24-year-old in an attempt to help the defender learn more about the game. Todd also took into consideration a two-footed tackle made by Stewart in a friendly international against Honduras, which resulted in the player being sent off.
"He needs to learn the game and is still a bit raw, but he's got good strength and pace and his game will come on from working with other players on the training ground, Todd said.
"It's good to know we've got somebody who can come in, be strong and attack the ball. He's also quite comfortable in possession," the manager added.
Stewart is a stalwart in Jamaica's back line and even though Todd recognised that the Caribbean top-rated team isn't the best in the world, he is confident that Stewart will fit in.
"It might take a little while but I expect him to do very well for us. He is rugged and hungry to do well…the lad has certainly got something.
"I know Jamaica aren't the strongest national side, but it is a test when you are playing the likes of the South American teams.
"He partners Davis for his country and I've been impressed with the way he has played at Preston. Damion is a bit similar in his approach."
Earlier this year the former Harbour View FC captain had a two-week trial with Stoke City and also had a spell at Darlington.
http://www.caribbeannetnews.com/2005/06/22/international.shtml

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