QPR REPORT

-
This past July 31, there were assertions on QPR Fan Messageboards that players had been locked out of the club's (rented) Harlington training ground. There was a brief 'snippet' re this rumour in the July 31 Evening Standard. There was no official statement/comment re this by the club. The following day, Chairman Paladini issued a statement on the official site which among other things, denounced a f ew who "seem intent on Damaging Team Morale and destroying the club"
Besides expressing great optimism about the forthcoming season and declaring "The Club is in a better financial position than it has been in for a number of years," Chairman Paladini also made reference to "brand new QPR tailor-made suits for every player" whose existence remain somewhat of a mystery. And the Chairman also characterized an Evening Standard story as "I have been advised it is libellous and our lawyers will be contacting the Standard immediately to demand a retraction." If there ever was legal action or a retraction, it was not subsequently noted by the club.

August 1, 2006: OFFICIAL SITE - STATEMENT FROM CHAIRMAN, GIANNI PALADINI
Having just returned from the R's pre-season tour of Italy, QPR Chairman Gianni Paladini can't wait for the big kick-off.
"The trip to Sorrento was a great success, providing the players and coaching staff with an opportunity for some intense training and team bonding.
"Despite the players staying in one of the town's grandest hotels, and having been fitted with brand new QPR tailor-made suits for every player, the trip paid for itself and the Club even managed to make a tiny profit from it.
"Gary, Macca and the coaching staff are now ready for the new season. I believe we have a much improved squad, with summer signings including Armel Tchakounte, Jamaican international defender Damion Stewart, Egutu Oliseh, Adam Czerkas and the much talked about Nicky Ward, and the important re-signing of Lee Cook for two more years.
"Many of last season's first team have improved over pre-season and it has been particularly pleasing to see Martin Rowlands back to full fitness. A number of the youth squad have made tremendous steps forward during pre-season and will be fighting for places in Gary's first team.
"It is frustrating that, despite all the hard work everyone has been doing during pre-season, a tiny minority of people seem intent on damaging team morale and destroying the Club in the run up to our important first game.
"Not only have they once again invented wholly false rumours about the state of the Club, but unfortunately a couple of journalists with a record of writing stories against QPR, and with links to some of the individuals intent on destabilising the Club, have blown up these rumours and made up stories from nothing.
"Last week it was suggested in some of the press that we were putting QPR up for sale. Unfortunately the journalists responsible for this story failed to even check the official statement from Antonio Caliendo, Chairman of Holdings, on the Club's official website, making clear the Board's continued commitment to QPR.
"I have always said if someone with QPR's best interests at heart wants to come along and buy out the existing Board we would not stand in their way. Nothing has changed and nobody has come forward. We will continue to seek out new investors to take the Club even further forward, but as Antonio made clear last week, we are committed to QPR.
"The Club is in a better financial position than it has been in for a number of years. Things are still tough, but we have reduced the annual debt by millions and intend to reduce it further. Yet ridiculous rumours still seem to be invented by a few people for reasons beyond me.
"The latest is the absurd rumour suggested on a message board that the players were locked out of the Harlington training ground, when in fact Gary Waddock had just given them the day off as they had only recently arrived back from a busy schedule in Italy.
"The same newspaper that had to apologise for a series of inaccurate stories about me last season, the Evening Standard, then chose to repeat this wholly false rumour as fact without even checking with me, the coaching staff, or even Imperial College - the owners of the training ground.
"In an article by a journalist named Wayne Vesey, under the headline 'Locked-out Rangers are unable to train' the Standard claimed that the Club was locked out of the training ground on Monday. Such a clearly false statement damages the reputation of the Club, and the morale of the players and supporters. I have been advised it is libellous and our lawyers will be contacting the Standard immediately to demand a retraction."QPR fans will ask themselves why should people invent such rumours? The purpose can only be to destabilise the Club and to injure the morale of players and fans just days before the season kicks off. The Club will not allow another season to be derailed by these people.
"The Board, Gary Waddock and the coaching staff, and the players and other members of staff, are all united in our focus to move this great club forward and to achieve success this season on the pitch. We believe we have the squad and the resources to do so. We will not allow a tiny group of people, driven by an agenda that has nothing to do with football, to destroy this Club.
"I urge all fans to treat such rumour-mongers with the contempt and scepticism they deserve. They have been claiming we would go into administration every week for the past year, and they never admit they are wrong when we don't.
"They claimed we were locked out of the training ground before and even that the groundsmen would not cut the grass at the stadium. They predicted we would spend all the Club's money on agents' fees when we have spent less than nearly any other club in this division. They predicted we would sell off Loftus Road and all our best players because we could not afford their wages.
"Just yesterday they claimed we were locked out of the training ground because we could not afford the rent; but today, as scheduled, our players are training at the training ground. On each and every occasion their rumours have been proven false.
"As I believe you say in England, when someone cries wolf so many times, people stop listening. But every time the rumour-mongers are proven wrong they invent another rumour, so desperate to be proven right and for the Club to fail.
"For the last time I say to those who's criticism of the Board has developed into an agenda to undermine the Club, if you know of a better alternative to take QPR forward with the necessary funding to support it, then please let us know. Otherwise stop pursuing a divisive and destructive agenda. The Board, the players and staff and the thousands of fans of QPR will not allow a small selfish group to ruin the season for the rest of us.
"I know most QPR fans will be sensible enough to take every rumour and press speculation with a hefty pinch of salt. We seem to be in the 'silly season' right now - only today I saw an article in the Mirror claiming I had rejected an offer of £3million for Danny Shittu from Wolves and would only sell him for £10 million.
"The story is, of course, rubbish. As I have said all along, we don't want to sell Danny, but if someone comes in with an offer of £3million or above it will be up to him to decide. Nobody has made such an offer and so Danny will be starting the season with us.
"So as we prepare for the opening game at Burnley on Saturday, and then two exciting home games against Leeds United and newly promoted Southend United, I cannot wait for the football to start and for the players to do the talking on the pitch."And I urge every single QPR fan to get fully behind Gary and the boys and help them to turn this into a glorious season. Come on You R's!'' Gianni Paladini QPR

August 1, 2006: OFFICIAL SITE STATEMENT RE GROUND CLOSING
CLUB STATEMENT Queens Park Rangers Football Club would like to issue the following statement to clear the air over yet more wildly inaccurate reporting in the press and on various message boards.QPR staff were admitted to the training ground on Monday. No players were refused admittance to the ground yesterday. This is because no players turned up as it had been decided to give them an extra day off after their pre-season tour to Italy. The players are back at the training ground today (Tuesday) working hard for the opening match of the season at Turf Moor on Saturday. We can confirm that there was no Portsmouth player on trial with the Club either yesterday or today. It should also be noted that the items printed in the press had not been checked with either QPR or Imperial College before being published.And remember... www.qpr.co.uk is the R's official website - where all the breaking news comes first and fastest. QPR

QPR Chairman, Paladini Denies "Locked Out of Training Ground" Rumours
Mirror August 1, 2006 - RANGERS RENT ROW MYSTERY
Paladini last night denied his players had been locked out of the training ground because the troubled Championship club had not paid the rent.
Several QPR players claimed they were turned away from their Harlington training HQ when the gates were locked in the latest apparent financial setback.
Rangers may be entrenched in debt, but Paladini stressed the rent was paid to Imperial College on July 18.
And he also insisted star defender Danny Shittu would not be sold before Saturday's kick-off - despite Wolves' £3million offer.
Paladini said: "We can prove the rent was paid and our manager Gary Waddock was there yesterday and allowed in.
"The players were simply given a day off and that is why they were not at the training ground yesterday.
"It's been a very difficult time for the club - the worst I can ever remember.
"As for Danny Shittu, we have had two offers but we are determined not to sell him. If we could not pay our rent then we would have sold him to Wolves a long time ago.
"There are about three or four clubs interested in signing him and we've had contact from Birmingham, West Brom and Norwich.
"If I can get a bid for £10m then we will listen, but if we don't get that sort of money then he'll start the season with us." Mirror

-
Dorset Daily Echo - Kevin Bond
"[Bournemouth Manager] KEVIN Bond is unlikely to pursue his interest in Dimitrios Zografakis -....Bond told the Daily Echo: "...I also made an enquiry with John Gregory about Paul Furlong but he said he wouldn't let him out on loan at this moment in time." This is Dorset

Vital Football "Cullip signs, 3 others reject QPR"
"....Tottenham`s Reto Ziegler has been in discussions with officials at Loftus Road over a loan move until the end of the season but has ultimately decided to go and play for six months in Italy with Sampdoria.
The club also sounded out Derby County over out of favour goalkeeper Lee Camp but have been knocked back. .....
The club also approached Southampton with a view to signing their defender Martin Cranie but with Cullip and Bolder arriving in his two positions already the interest wasn`t taken any further."
Vital Football

And QPR 15-year old Dean Parrett is supposedly joining (or has joined) Spurs). But besides newspapers saying it, it has not been confirmed on the QPR or Spurs Official Sites.
QPR-MAD "Wonderkid Parrett joining Spurs"
QPR MAD

-
Brighton Official Site -Henderson Joins Preston By Paul Camillin
Albion have sold goalkeeper Wayne Henderson to Preston North End for a fee of £150,000, potentially rising to £200,000 dependent on appearances. He has agreed a three-and-a-half-year deal.
Irish international Henderson handed in a written transfer request on Monday, which the club accepted and the player completed his move to Deepdale today, after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.
Chairman Dick Knight explained, "We are sorry to see Wayne go, but felt we could not ignore a second transfer request from the player. I was aware of Preston's interest and so moved quickly to conclude the deal.
"We did not want Wayne to leave, but I am satisfied with the deal. I'm sure Wayne will be delighted with joining Preston and I would like to wish him all the best in his future career."
Albion boss Dean Wilkins added, "I think from Wayne's point of view he found it difficult being left out. From my point of view I thank him for his service to the club.
"He has always been professional when he has played, but I felt he handed in his transfer request a little too soon.
"He's got his reasons for doing that, and part of that is because of his international career, but I feel that he has served the club well and I wish him all the best for the future." Brighton

July 2005 - Aston Villa Mad
QPR home in on Henderson
Story by John Atkin 21 July 2005
Wayne Henderson is set to join Queens Park Rangers after moving to Loftus Road on loan.
The Republic of Ireland Under-21 goalkeeper, who trained with Bristol City last week, has been unable to force his way into the reckoning at Villa Park and is thought to be keen to secure first-team football. Quoted on the club’s official site, goalkeeping coach Eric Steele said: “QPR have been expressing an interest in Wayne for some time. He will train with the club for two days and then will be available for QPR’s game with Charlton at the weekend.” Were he to make a permanent move to west London, the youngster would rejoin Stefan Moore who moved earlier this summer. Aston Villa Mad

-
Despite having scored five goals in their past 12 league games (10 of which were lost), QPR today made one deadline day signing - and it wasn't a forward. Manager John Gregory while praising his new signing declared ..."I would have liked to have added more, but our current economic state would suggest that I had to juggle things around in the best interest of the club at this particular time." He went on to praise Chairman Paladini (although some supporters might disagree with that conclusion) "The Chairman has been tremendously supportive in both enabling me to bring the three players in, as well as shipping a few out." QPR


QPR Official Site - CULLIP SIGNS
QPR are delighted to announce the signing of experienced Nottingham Forest defender Danny Cullip.
Following his release from The Reds, the 30 year-old centre-half has penned an 18 month deal at Loftus Road and in doing so, becomes gaffer John Gregory's third signing of the January transfer window.
Cullip - whose previous clubs include Sheffield United, Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford, Fulham and Oxford - spoke exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk moments after signing the deal.
"When the chance came up to come here, it was an easy decision to make,'' he said.
"John didn't need to sell the club to me at all. I know what QPR are about, a lot of my friends are supporters, so I jumped at the chance.
"All I can say is that I'll come in and give my all. I'm up for a fight, I enjoy a battle and hopefully we can get enough results to ensure we stay in this division.
"There are some huge games coming up and I can't wait to get started.''
Gregory was equally delighted with the signing, adding: "We needed a player with his kind of character. He's a leader, an organiser and in my opinion he's a winner.
"He's an out-and-out defender, who will help the inexperienced players that we have in the heart of our defence.''
Cullip - who is in line to make his QPR debut against Burnley on Saturday - will wear the number four shirt.
*A full interview with Danny Cullip will be available on QPR World tomorrow (Thursday). QPR

JOHN GREGORY'S COMMENTS- QPR OFFICIAL SITE - DAN'S THE MAN
Gaffer John Gregory has revealed his delight at the signing of defender Danny Cullip.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk after the former Nottingham Forest player put pen to paper on an 18 month contract, Gregory said: "We needed a player with his kind of character. He's a leader, an organiser and in my opinion he's a winner.
"He's an out-and-out defender, who will help the inexperienced players that we have in the heart of our defence - he will certainly assist the likes of Michael Mancienne, Damion Stewart and Sami Timoska.''
Gregory continued: "He's won play-off finals, promotions and is a real battler. I'm bringing him in not only for his defensive qualities, but also for his leadership skills.''
Despite admitting it was tough to do business, the Rangers gaffer is pleased with his January dealings, commenting: "We've had to move eight players on to bring in three fresh faces, but I'm delighted with the three we've brought in. All three of them will play a big part in our battle to survive this season.
"I would have liked to have added more, but our current economic state would suggest that I had to juggle things around in the best interest of the club at this particular time. I've always stated that we've got far too many players here - which has not been the players' fault - but I've done the best I can in very trying circumstances.
"The Chairman has been tremendously supportive in both enabling me to bring the three players in, as well as shipping a few out.
"The loan market is still there if we feel we need to make the necessary changes again, but I don't foresee anything immediately.'' QPR

NOTTINGHAM FORREST PERSPECTIVE
Danny Cullip has left Nottingham Forest for Championship side Queens Park Rangers.
The free transfer deal was completed this afternoon after the 30 year old defender had passed a medical at Loftus Road.
His departure follows 24 hours after Forest had announced the signing of 21 year old central defender Luke Chambers from Northampton Town.
Cullip joined Forest from Sheffield United before the start of last season but persistent hamstring problems restricted him to 14 appearances in the 2005-2006 campaign.
Although not in the side recently, he has figured more prominently this season and the former Oxford, Brentford, Fulham, Brighton and Sheffield United played 38 Forest games in total. Nottingham Forest


QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WARD OUT ON LOAN
Midfielder Nicky Ward has joined Brighton & Hove Albion on loan until the end of the season.
The Australian international - who joined QPR from Perth Glory in the summer - has made 21 appearances in all competitions for Rangers this season, scoring one goal.
However, he has not featured in John Gregory's plans since the 2-2 draw with Luton Town in the FA Cup on Saturday 6th January and has now joined up with the League One side. QPR

Brighton On Signing Ward - Albion Net Aussie Playmaker By Tim Dudding
Albion have made a second swoop on transfer deadline day, netting QPR playmaker Nick Ward on loan until the end of the season.
The 21-year-old Australian midfielder has played 21 games for the R's since arriving from Perth Glory in the summer, scoring one goal, in the 2-0 win over Southend in August.
An exciting flair player, Ward's progress has been watched by manager Dean Wilkins and Chairman Dick Knight since last October, when they spotted him playing in a reserve team game for the Londoners.
Wilkins told seagulls.co.uk, "I watched him in October and spoke to Gary Waddock, who brought him to QPR. He speaks highly of him.
"He's a very attack-minded midfield player and he will bring much-needed competition to the squad."
Ward has been selected for the Australian national squad - although he has yet to make his debut - and only narrowly missed out on a place for the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
He is also on standby for the Socceroos' friendly with Denmark next week to be played, ironically, at Loftus Road.
Ward also scooped the Australian League 'Rising Star' award in 2006 and was included in a 'Who's Who' of the best young players to watch on the official FIFA website.
Describing the difference between English and Australian football, he said, "The game is a lot slower over in Australia, mainly because of the heat, whereas here it's a lot quicker with not as much time on the ball.
"I like to play good football, that's what I've always tried to do. I like to get the ball down and pass it, get forward and score goals." Brighton

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - CULLIP FACT FILE
www.qpr.co.uk takes a look at the career of the R's latest signing - no-nonsense centre half Danny Cullip.
Danny Cullip joined Nottingham Forest on the eve of last season, with The Reds paying Sheffield United an undisclosed fee for his services.
Cullip's first season at The City Ground proved to be a frustrating one though, with persistent hamstring problems restricting him to just 14 appearances in all competitions.
Undeterred, he's returned stronger than ever this season, making 25 appearances at the heart of The Reds defence, prior to his last outing on New Years Day, when he was shown a red card in Forest's forgettable 5-0 defeat to fellow League One high-fliers Oldham.
Prior to his move to Forest, the no-nonsense defender made 15 appearances for the Blades following a £250,000 switch from Brighton & Hove Albion in December 2004, but moved on after falling out of favour with manager Neil Warnock.
During his five-year spell with Brighton, he was appointed captain and twice scooped the south coast club's 'Player of the Year' award.
Cullip started his career with Oxford and had spells with Fulham and Brentford before his career really gathered pace with Brighton.
Everyone at the Club wishes Danny a successful stay in W12.
QPR

-
QPR have been "reliably" linked to at least two players: Danny Cullip at Nottingham Forest and Spurs Reto Ziegler. Thus far no announcement re Cullip and Ziegler has gone off on loan to Italy.

Yesterday John Gregory said on the Official Site
"John Gregory is refusing to rule out the chance of bringing in one more player before the transfer window slams shut at midnight on Wednesday.
Hot on the heels of adding Adam Bolder to his squad over the weekend, Gregory revealed exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk that there could be one more deal in the pipeline ahead of the transfer deadline.
"Hopefully we'll be able to bring in one more before Wednesday's deadline and he would go straight into the side,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"We've been in the hunt for a number of players since I arrived here in September, but we're not going to just change faces for the sake of it.
"The one's that come in have to be better than the one's they're replacing, but hopefully we'll be able to bring one more in before the window closes.'' QPR

Spurs Official Site- Ziegler to Sampdoria
RETO ON LOAN
Agreement has been reached with Sampdoria for the loan transfer of Reto Ziegler until the end of the season.
The Swiss international joined us from Grasshoppers in August 2004 and went on to make 31 appearances in his first season, scoring one goal at the Lane against Everton.
Last season the 21-year-old spent time away from the Lane on loan at both Hamburg (14 appearances) and Wigan (13), the latter spell including a substitute appearance against Manchester United in the Carling Cup final.
He has featured in four First Team games this season and now heads off to Genoa and the team that currently sit 10th in the Serie A standings.
Spurs

-
Evening Standard
"It is expected to be a frantic day at White Hart Lane — Edgar Davids having finally completed his move to Ajax yesterday — with Jol also hoping his board complete the signing of Queens Park Rangers prodigy Dean Parrett.
Sportsmail revealed last Saturday that Parrett, 15, is wanted by both Chelsea and Tottenham, but it appears Jol is on the verge of winning the race for his signature."
Standard

-
Ben Kosky - Kilburn Times - Rose was expecting the boot
LONG-SERVING defender Matthew Rose realised his days at QPR were numbered within a few weeks of John Gregory's arrival at Loftus Road.
Rose, 31, was frozen out almost as soon as Gregory took over from Gary Waddock in September, and this week finalised a deal to end almost a decade's service to the club.
The former England under-21 international, who signed for Rangers in a £500,000 switch from Arsenal in 1997, insists he wanted to spend the rest of his career at Loftus Road.
But, despite a shocking seven-match spell which saw the Rs concede 16 goals in October and November, Gregory refused to consider selecting the experienced Rose, claiming at one stage that the player was injured.
"It was clear I wasn't in John Gregory's plans," Rose told the Times. "I was happy and settled at QPR, but things happened that were out of my control.

"I travelled to Cardiff with the squad in November and, when I couldn't even get on the bench, I realised which way it was going. That's how it is in football and hopefully, as one door closes, another one opens.
"It's like any job - if you get up in the morning and you're not enjoying going to work, it takes its toll on yourself and your family and you realise there's a lot more to life than football.
"I had a little niggle which I got put right in December and, if I was in the manager's plans, I'd have had it done sooner, but then it was a case of making sure I was fully fit for when I got things sorted with QPR."
Injury problems blighted Rose's career at Loftus Road, perhaps illustrated best by the fact that he made just 261 appearances for the club in those 10 seasons.
Brought to Rangers by his former Arsenal coach Stewart Houston, Rose began at right-back, but went on to feature as a central defender, sweeper, midfielder and left-back under a succession of managers.
It took Rose until February 2000 to register his first QPR goal, in a 1-1 draw at Barnsley, but he went on to score seven more - the best of which came against Brighton and West Ham during the Rs' run of seven straight wins under Ian Holloway in 2004.
It was Holloway who oversaw the highlight of Rose's QPR career during that year - promotion back to the Championship was particularly sweet for the defender, a member of the side relegated three years earlier.
Rose added: "Winning promotion was certainly the highlight. We'd been through a lot of lows, but we had a great day at Hillsborough and to be part of that was wonderful.
"Certain things have happened since then that could be taking the club backwards. I hope not because, after 10 years, QPR will always be a big part of my life.
"There have been a lot of jokes made about my injury problems, but I've always given my best for the QPR supporters and I think they appreciate that.
"The fan base is unbelievable - even now, they're still turning up in their thousands - and I hope for their sake that the club doesn't go down. They don't deserve that."
Rose became the second senior player to leave Loftus Road this month after club captain Kevin Gallen, who rejoined former boss Ian Holloway at Plymouth, initially on loan for the remainder of the season.
But QPR have yet to confirm whether they will award Rose a testimonial - the usual reward for 10 years' service - which had been verbally agreed with former chief executive Mark Devlin.
As someone who gave the best years of his career to Rangers, Rose surely deserves that. Kilburn Times

# posted by Administrator @ 8:03 AM 0 comments

-
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Reto waiting in the wings - 30 January 2007
QPR have launched a bid to bring Tottenham wide man Reto Ziegler to Loftus Road before the transfer window closes.
Rangers hope to borrow the Swiss international for the rest of the season - but have made it clear that they do not view him as a replacement for Lee Cook.
Tottenham are among the Premiership clubs to have inquired about Cook in recent weeks, but have been categorically told the £10m-rated winger is not for sale.
If Rs manager John Gregory lands Ziegler, he plans to play him as a left wing-back, with three central defenders and Cook featuring on the left of a three-man midfield.
Gregory wants Nottingham Forest defender Danny Cullip to be one of that centre-back trio, although a deal is yet to be finalised.
The former Fulham and Brentford defender, 30, has also accumulated plenty of experience in the Championship with Brighton and Sheffield United, but is thought to be keen on a move back to London.
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini told the Times: "We've agreed everything, more or less - it's a case of whether Forest will let him go before they bring in a replacement.
"[Damion] Stewart and [Michael] Mancienne are doing very well, but John prefers to play three at the back and we need someone with experience to guide the younger players through.
"People are still phoning up about Cook, Jones and Blackstock, but I've made it clear they are not for sale. We don't want to commit hari-kari and the board are unanimous in that."
Gregory clinched his second signing of the transfer window last weekend when Derby midfielder Adam Bolder, 26, turned down a move back to his hometown club, Hull, to rejoin his former boss.
Bolder, who made 181 appearances in nearly seven years at Pride Park, will help plug the gap left by the hamstring injury that is likely to rule Marc Bircham out for the season.
But the exit door has also been busy at Loftus Road, with squad players Matthew Hislop and Jon Munday leaving the club alongside the out of favour Matthew Rose.
In all, eight players have been released in the last six weeks and Paladini added: "When you terminate a contract, you save at least 50 per cent of what you would pay if the contract ran to its end.
"We've reduced the wage bill by £500,000 in recent weeks and that's an important part of what we're trying to do to get this club out of trouble. Kilburn Times

-
QPR, who are in the middle of a terrible run, lost again tonight. From QPR's Last 12 League Games: 10 Losses and 2 wins: Form QPR lost 0-2 at Barnsley with goals in the last minute of each half. As a result of this loss, Barnsley go above QPR. As other results also went against QPR, QPR are in some trouble. It might be noted that the transfer window closes at Midnight, Wednesday, so QPR have 24 more hours to buy or sell.

League Table After Tonight

17 Norwich 29 -11 34
18 Leicester 29 -9 33
19 Barnsley 30 -15 32
20 Hull 30 -11 31
21 Luton 30 -14 31
22 QPR 30 -12 30
23 Southend 30 -21 27
24 Leeds 29 -22 27

John Gregory's Post-Match Comments - QPR Official Site "We'll Battle On"
"John Gregory vowed that there is more to come from his men and predicts there will be a few more twists and turns yet.
After what he admitted was a disappoiting display, the gaffer was resolute in his admission that Rangers would continue to battle against the current lack of form.
"We had the majority of the play in the first half, they got their chance and took it whereas we didn't take the three or four that fell our way.
"It's a massive concern obviously, we've been down the bottom fighting relegation all season, but I'm sure there will be more twists and turns before this campaign finishes.
"You can't knock our spirit, if there's one thing these lads can do it's fight and I know they will come good.
"Tough times don't last, but tough guys do."
JG was concerned that the result would have been a lot different had the referee given a second half penalty.
"I saw it, all eleven players saw it and so did all of the fans. But when times are hard you don't get the breaks." QPR

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - MATCH REPORT
John Gregory's men slipped into the relegation zone after a disappointing result against fellow strugglers Barnsley.
It was billed as a 'must win' game, but Rangers failed to take anything from Oakwell as the Tykes won this batle at the bottom.
The first half was quiet and careful from both sides, who were both clearly well aware of the dangers that one simple mistake could create.
And it was one lapse in concentration that allowed Marc Richards to put the Tykes ahead in first half injury time.
The second half failed to bring better news for Rangers as a penalty decision was waved away before Brian Howard sailed the ball over Royce from 20 yards out in the 90th minute
John Gregory called upon new signing Adam Bolder to take up a place in the middle of the park and up front, Paul Furlong joined Dexter Blackstock in the attack.

Zesh Rehman carved out the first of Rangers' attacks when he stormed down the right flank, sold a dummy to his marker and crossed for Blackstock to just head wide of the post.

Antony Kay then almost gifted Rangers the opener when his stray leg diverted Lomas' cross into the arms of Nick Colgan in the Barnsley goal.

New signing Adam Bolder was certainly vocal in the middle of the park and was full of orders and arm movements for his team mates.

With 15 minutes on the clock, Cook swung in a free kick from outside the box which narrowly evaded Damion Stewart at the far post as Rangers grew ever closer to breaking the deadlock.

The action then became as quiet as the Oakwell crowd where a strange 'reserve game' atmosphere was only ever broken up by the vocal travelling support, who though short in numbers, were in fine voice.

With three minutes of the half remaining, Jimmy Smith became the second Rangers man to have a certain goal denied thanks to an unassuming defender. Paul Reid deflected Smith's cracking strike over the bar, despite not knowing too much about it.

But the game took a turn for the worse when Barnsley pulled ahead.

Deep into injury time, Marc Richards stole through, completely unopposed and stuck home the ball past Royce to completely shock the visiting team. Seconds after, the referee blew for half time to signal the worst possible end of the half for Rangers.

Barnsley signalled their intentions in the second half by sitting ten men behind the ball quite literally, moving only to hit Rangers on the break. Even despite their drastic measures, the defending was still quite comical at times.

Rangers were still carving out space though. Blackstock forced Colgan to save at his near post before Furlong cannoned the ball over the bar from close range.

With 20 minutes of the second half played, John Gregory and the travelling support behind the goal were all on their feet when referee Boyeson waved away their appeals for a penalty. Rangers felt that their shouts of hand ball were strong, but the official refused to budge on the matter.

Gregory then introduced Ray Jones and Gareth Ainsworth at the expense of Furlong and Lomas in a bid to get a grip on the game.

Cook continued to ravage the Tykes defence with some formiddable twists and turns, but his finishing was wayward when he blazed the ball over the bar.

Barnsley then enjoyed a spell of pressure causing Rangers to live on the edge at times.
It finally paid off when Brian Howard lobbed Simon Royce in injury time once again after spotting the keeper off his line in the 90th minute. Despite the four minutes of stoppages, Rangers were out of time.
Barnsley: Colgan, Hassell, Reid, Togwell, Richards, Howard, Kay (K Reid 74), Eckersley, Nardiello, Devaney, McCann
Subs: Lucas, Coulson, Atkinson, Mattis
Scorers: Richards 45, Howard 90
Bookings: Togwell
QPR: Royce, Rehman (Nygaard 85), Bolder, Lomas (Ainsworth 74), Cook, Stewart, Timoska, Furlong (Jones 70), Blackstock, Smith, Mancienne
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka
Bookings: Timoska, Mancienne
Att: 9,890
Ref: C Boyeson QPR

SPORTING LIFE
OWARD HOWITZER EARNS ROONEY COMPARISON

E-mail this article E-mail Article Print this article Print-Friendly Subscribe to sportinglife RSS feed Subscribe to RSS Feed
Digg this story post this story to del.icio.us - social bookmarking site Post to del.icio.us

By Ross Heppenstall, PA Sport

Barnsley manager Simon Davey compared Brian Howard to Wayne Rooney after his spectacular strike sealed a priceless 2-0 Coca-Cola Championship win over relegation rivals QPR.

Tykes midfielder Howard capped an impressive display with a delightful chipped effort in the closing stages to add to Marc Richards' opener.

The goal was similar to Rooney's second strike in Manchester United's 2-1 FA Cup fourth-round victory against Portsmouth last weekend.

"It was Wayne Rooney-like," said Davey. "It was a cultured finish and he's won the game for us with an excellent goal, so you can't argue with that.

"We're very pleased to get the victory and we've said in the last couple of weeks it's the result that matters.

"We've now put together two wins and that's what we need at this stage of the season."

Richards regained his scoring touch when it mattered most as Barnsley secured a priceless victory that saw them leapfrog Rangers.

Goalless in his previous 15 appearances and under increased pressure following the arrival of Hungary forward Peter Rajczi, the striker responded in the best possible manner.

His close-range finish put the Tykes ahead on the stroke of half-time and Howard's last-minute strike from 20 yards sealed the points.

Davey added: "Pretty football doesn't get you results and if we need to grind out results - get everybody behind the ball and put a chance away when we get it - then that's what we'll do.

"Rangers were very physical and it was the same when we went down to Loftus Road.

"I don't think there's a player under 6ft 3in there and they put us under pressure at times.

"But we withheld the pressure and defended magnificently. I don't look at the table but if we keep picking up points then I'll be happy."

It was tough on John Gregory's side, who now reside in the relegation zone, as they created a succession of half-chances only to be thwarted by an excellent defensive display from Barnsley.

This was the Tykes' second successive win and the availability of Rajczi for Friday's trip to Cardiff will serve as another boost to their survival prospects.

The striker, who has been capped nine times and scored 23 goals last term in domestic competition, has agreed to a loan move from Ujpest Dozsa until the end of the season with a view to completing a permanent deal in the summer.

He was ineligible to face Rangers as he awaits international clearance and was forced to watch in frustration from Oakwell's main stand.

Davey added: "He should be available for Friday's game at Cardiff but he'll have to work hard to get into the side and rightly so."

Rangers, who handed a debut to Adam Bolder in the centre of midfield following his arrival from Derby, created the better chances for much of the game.

But, as John Gregory admitted, they badly lacked a killer touch.

"I thought we had dominated the first half and put a lot of pressure on them but we got punched on the nose when Richards scored," said the Rangers boss.

"We know that through this difficult period, it will turn. Tough times don't last but tough people do and this lost certainly just kept going and going.
"This lot have never given in and that's why the fans have stuck with us, home and away.
"What we might lack in quality, we certainly make up for in our effort and our enthusiasm.
"The results will turn because, once again, the boys gave everything." Sporting Life


BBC - Barnsley 2-0 QPRBarnsley leapfrogged relegation rivals QPR, who plunged into the bottom three as a result of the defeat at Oakwell.

Marc Richards put the home side ahead on the stroke of half-time and, despite a suspicion of offside, he converted a Martin Devaney cross from close range.

Rangers mounted an impressive fightback but Paul Furlong and Dexter Blackstock failed to capitalise when presented with promising chances.

Barnsley wrapped up the win when Brian Howard chipped in from 20 yards.

#
Barnsley manager Simon Davey:
"We're pleased to get the win and we've said in the last couple of weeks it's the result that matters.

"We've now put together two wins and that's what we need at this stage of the season.

"Pretty football doesn't get you results and if we need to grind out results then that's what we'll do." BBC

BARNSLEY OFFICIAL SITE REPORT BARNSLEY 2 (Richards 45, Howard 90)
QUEENS PARK RANGERS 0

A WONDER goal by Brian Howard put the icing on the cake as the Reds battled to claim a fine victory at Oakwell against Championship rivals QPR.

Reds boss Simon Davey, unsurprisingly, kept faith with the side that did so well at Luton last time out. There was no place again in the 16 for Paul Hayes or Paul Heckingbottom and new signing Peter Rajczi got his first taste of Oakwell watching from the stands.

QPR started strongly with full back Zesh Rehman managing to get the better of Adam Eckersley on three minutes down the flank. Rehman's cross was excellent but it was matched by Paul Reid's goal-saving header to clear the danger on the six yard line.

At the other end Daniel Nardiello almost got half a yard to get a shot away in the area on seven minutes but found his path to goal blocked by Damion Stewart.

Another cynical foul by Rangers left Marc Richards in a heap on nine minutes and the striker managed to brush himself down to glance Martin Devaney's free kick against a defender and wide of the target.

Howard, who seemed again to be the target for QPR, was left in agony by another ridiculously heavy challenge on 14 minutes as this time it was Adam Bolder's turn to kick lumps out of the Reds midfielder.

Nick Colgan had to be alert on 17 minutes to grab Lee Cook's free kick under pressure from Stewart and Paul Furlong although Dexter Blackstock's dive to con the foul in the first place under Antony Kay's challenge should never have been allowed.

The Reds were almost punished for some hesitant defending on 21 minutes as Jimmy Smith crashed a shot just wide from the edge of the area after the Barnsley backline had struggled to deal with Bolder's cross.

Sam Timoska and Sam Togwell traded yellow cards before a wonderful piece of play by Howard split the QPR defence wide open on 35 minutes to send Richards in but Simon Royce made an outstanding save although a late offside flag would have ruled out any goal.

Howard almost grabbed the opener on 40 minutes as he broke well from the middle of the park before slamming a left-footed shot high over the top of Royce's goal.

Smith went close again on 43 minutes as he smashed a shot against Kay from 18 yards although the chance was created more by Furlong's handball in the area than anything. From the corner Richards had to be alert to hook the ball over his own bar from six yards out.

The opening goal finally came deep in stoppage time as Richards somehow managed to beat the offside trap to reach Bobby Hassell's cross and coolly slotted the ball past Royce from four yards out.

QPR came out after the break with all guns blazing although they had some kamikaze Reds defending and distribution to thank for much of their early pressure. Cook managed to get in behind Hassell on 50 minutes on cross well but Eckersley really earned his money with an outstanding header at the back post to deny Blackstock an easy tap in.

Smith then took advantage of another defensive slip to hammer the ball across the face of goal on 56 minutes but Furlong could not turn it in from six yards out. Rehman finally forced Colgan into a save on 58 minutes as he met Cook's free kick at the back post but could only head straight at the Reds keeper.

The Reds had a massive let off on 63 minutes as Blackstock's downward header from Cook's cross appeared to strike an arm in the area but the referee gave nothing despite huge protests from the QPR players and bench.

Bolder lashed a wild effort high over on 69 minutes before Timoska went one better by threatening to smash the top row of seats in the North Stand with an equally ferocious strike off target five minutes later. At the other end Richards almost caught out Royce with a snap shot on 76 minutes that the QPR keeper did well to parry away.

Livewire winger Cook had the Rangers faithful on their feet on 80 minutes as he was given time and space to run at the Barnsley defence again but his low shot lacked the quality of his burst through the middle of the park and flew well, well wide.

The Reds could have made the game safe on 87 minutes as Hassell met Devaney's corner with purpose but could not direct his header on target from 12 yards out.

Howard did end the contest in the first minute of stoppage time with another goal of the season contender. The midfielder broke forward before sending an exquisite chip over Royce and into the back of the net from 25 yards. Barnsley

-
QPR travel to Barnsley tonight for a vital relegation game. Barnsley have just signed Hungarian International Forward, Peter Rajczi. But hopefully he won't be eligible yet to play.
Barnsley Home Record: Won 5 Drawn 4 Lost 5. Scored 17. Conceded 18
QPR Away Record Won 3 Drawn 3 Lost 8. Scored 16. Conceded 24

Championship Table - Table

Barnsley's Results - Results

Barnsley's Squad - Squad

Barnsley Official Site - WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN A HUGE LIFT AFTER BEATING LUTON AND WE WANT TO BUILD ON THAT WITH VICTORY AGAINST QPR" - SAM-TOGWELL
BARNSLEY midfielder Sam Togwell is looking to close the gap at the bottom of the Championship with a vital win over QPR tomorrow evening.
Sam told www.barnsleyfc.co.uk: "QPR will come here for another big game and another great chance to claw back some points and put the pressure on other teams.
"We do not have to get out of the bottom three in January - we have to make sure that we are out of it come the end of the season.
"We have been given a huge lift after beating Luton and we want to build on that with victory against QPR". Barnsley

Barnsley Official Site
THIS IS THE BIGGEST GAME OF THE SEASON NOW AND WE SIMPLY HAVE TO WIN. WE HAVE TO MAKE SURE WE GET BACK ABOVE QPR AND KEEP THE REST IN TOUCH" - ANTONY KAY
REDS defender Antony Kay believes tomorrow's match against QPR at Oakwell is the biggest game of the season today and one his side must win.

Speaking exclusively to www.barnsleyfc.co.uk, Antony said: "This is the biggest game of the season now and we simply have to win. We have to make sure we get back above QPR and keep the rest in touch.

"QPR are a big physical side and it was a scrappy game at their place but they nicked it. We are confident and we have to players to beat them.

"We need our supporters behind us. We know that we have taken a bit of stick at times in the last month and some of it has been deserved. We need our supporters backing and that can help us win the game". Barnsley

Barnsley Official - QPR ARE A BIG STRONG PHYSICAL SIDE AND WE WILL HAVE OUR HANDS FULL BUT IF WE CAN PLAY IN THE SAME WAY AS WE DID AGAINST LUTON AND HAVE THE FANS BEHIND US THEN I AM SURE WE WILL GET THE RIGHT RESULT" - NICK COLGAN
GOALKEEPER Nick Colgan is expecting a tough clash against a physical and strong QPR side but believes the Reds will go into tomorrow's match full of confidence.
Nick told www.barnsleyfc.co.uk: "We picked up three points at Luton. It was a good three points and it would be disappointing if we do not get something against QPR. If results go our way then we could climb the table a little bit. Winning breeds confidence and we want to kick on now.
"We played QPR three or four weeks ago and they are a decent outfit. They beat us 1-0 and I was disappointed with the goal although I felt I made three or four good saves in the game. We were disappointed with our overall game down there and we did not really make Simon Royce work too hard.
"QPR are a big strong physical side and we will have our hands full but if we can play in the same way as we did against Luton and have the fans behind us then I am sure we will get the right result". Barnsley

Barnsley Official Site - REDS SENSATIONAL SWOOP FOR HUNGARIAN INTERNATIONAL STRIKER!!!
BARNSLEY Football Club are set to complete the signing of Hungarian international striker Peter Rajczi ahead of the transfer deadline.
The 25-year-old hitman has one of the best strike records in Europe after bagging 23 goals for Ujpest Dozsa in Hungary last season. A full Hungarian international, Peter has bagged three goals in nine games for his country.
Born in Lengyeltóti, Hungary, in 1981, Peter joined Ujpest FC in 2003 and his six goals in 22 first team matches in his debut season. He followed that up with 13 in 28 during 2004/2005. Peter really came to the fore last season with 23 goals in 24 first team matches in the top flight of Hungarian football and has been linked with Watford.
Barnsley Football Club have agreed a substantial loan fee with Ujpest Dozsa which will see Peter join the Reds until the end of the season with an option in favour of the Club to conclude a permanent deal in the summer.
The relevant paperwork has been signed and is in the process of being faxed to both the Football Association, the Football League and the Hungarian Football Authorities. Barnsley Football Club will confirm the transfer when the relevant paperwork has been successfully registered both here and in Hungary. Barnsley

QPR PERSPECTIVE - TYKES
It's a six-pointer at Oakwell on Tuesday night for the R's, as John Gregory's men lock horns with fellow strugglers Barnsley.
Very little has changed since the meeting between these two sides just before Christmas - with a relegation dog-fight looming large for both in the second half of the campaign.
Martin Rowlands was the R's hero of the hour on December 23rd, bagging the only goal of the game at Loftus Road.
The trip to Oakwell is just one of three important ties on the immediate horizon for Rangers, who visit fellow strugglers Southend United and Leeds United in the coming weeks.

Rowlands (calf), Marcus Bignot (knee) and Stefan Bailey (suspended) are all unavailable, but Gareth Ainsworth is expected to return following his long term ankle injury.

New signing Adam Bolder is in line to make his full QPR debut in the heart of the midfield, as the R's go gunning for their first away victory since mid-November...
Top scorer (league goals only): Brian HOWARD 7

Last league game: Luton Town 0, Barnsley 2.
Coca Cola Championship. January 20th 2007.
Barnsley: Colgan, Hassell, Paul Reid, Kay, Eckersley, Devaney, Togwell, McCann, Howard, Richards (Kyel Reid 82), Nardiello (Coulson 81).
Subs Not Used: Lucas, Atkinson, Mattis.
Barnsley boss Simon Davey: "I said the team spirit was great this week in training and they have proved that with this result.
"The work ethic was fantastic and we took our chances, which we haven't been doing in the past couple of weeks.
"The whole team worked their socks off to keep Luton at bay and we have to find the consistency that we need now."

Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
Barnsley 11/10 QPR 11/5 Draw 11/5 ...
Head to head:
Barnsley wins: 11 QPR wins: 17 Draws: 9
Last meeting:
Queens Park Rangers 1 (Rowlands), Barnsley 0....
Latest News:
Reid extends Barnsley loan spell
Barnsley have been allowed to extend the loan of West Ham's Kyel Reid until the end of the season.
Left winger Reid, a product of West Ham's academy, joined the Tykes in November from the Hammers on an initial one-month loan.
The 19-year-old has become a first-team regular at Oakwell and has scored one goal in 10 appearances.
Reid was one of a quartet of loan signings made in November by boss Simon Davey soon after his appointment.
(source: www.bbc.co.uk/sport) QPR

PREVIEW:
Tracy Stent/QPR Rivals - Barnsley Preview

Ron Norris & Simon Skinner/QPR Net - Barnsley Preview

-
Teenage Reserve Defender, Jonathan Munday, who earlier this season, spent a month on loan at non-League Hendon has been released by QPR.

January 29: OFFICIAL SITE ANNOUNCEMENT
QPR defender Jonathan Munday has had his contract terminated with immediate effect.
The 18 year-old defender joined the Club as a trainee in July 2005, but despite a few squad appearances at the end of last season, he has failed to make the breakthrough to the R's first team.
The Club wishes Jonathan all the best for the future QPR

WHAT QPR SAID ABOUT MUNDAY IN APRIL
Official Site - 19.04.2006 HAPPY MUNDAY
-Rangers young-gun Jon Munday has put pen to paper on a one year professional contract with the club.
The 18 year-old defender - who was an unused substitute in Rangers' 3-2 defeat to Norwich City at Carrow Road on Easter Monday - signed on the dotted line at Loftus Road on Tuesday afternoon.
"It's a dream come true,'' said Munday.
"I've achieved my dream in life and now I'm just looking to the future.
"It came as a bit of a surprise to be honest, but I'd like to think it's my reward for all the hard work I've put in during the last few years.
"To be named on the bench on Monday was unbelievable and although the result didn't go our way, it was a day I'll remember for the rest of my life.''
Munday has always been earmarked for a 'bright' future.
His father Mike is a senior lecturer in the pharmaceutical bio-chemistry department at the University of London, while Jon himself is currently studying A-levels in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physical Education
But for the time being, he's more than happy to let his football do the talking.
"Fingers crossed I'll be involved with the first team between now and the end of the season and hopefully next year will be the same.
"Gary's a top manager and is willing to give youth a chance which is fantastic.
"We're all hoping to end the season on a high and I'd love to be part of it.'' QPR

-
Derby Official - BOLDER FOR QPR
Derby County midfielder Adam Bolder is to join Coca-Cola Championship side Queens Park Rangers today.
The 26-year-old has agreed personal terms at Loftus Road and will put pen to paper on a permanent move to West London for an undisclosed fee.
He will be re-united with former Derby boss John Gregory, who saw Bolder as an intergral part of his team during the 2002/03 season following relegation from the Premiership.
Bolder joined the Rams from Hull City - who had also expressed an interest in re-signing him - in March 2000, and has made more appearances for Derby than any other member of the current squad.
In all competitions Bolder made 121 starts, 60 substitute appearances, and scored 11 goals. Derby Official

IAN EVATT The Times Evatt proves to be Wise signing Ian Whittell
Blackpool 1 Norwich City 1
"...Meagre amenities notwithstanding, the 9,491 supporters on hand played their part in making this tie a competitive and entertaining affair. As did Ian Evatt, the Blackpool central defender. Badly at fault in failing to clear for Darren Huckerby’s opening goal for Norwich City in the first half, the 25-year-old, who was recently signed permanently from Queens Park Rangers after joining Blackpool on loan in the summer, rose magnificently to meet David Fox’s 52nd-minute free kick and head a deserved equaliser for the Coca-Cola League One club.
Evatt personifies the resurgence of Blackpool, who have reached the fifth round only once in the past 48 years. Simon Grayson, the club’s promising young manager, and Valeri Belokon, the millionaire owner from Latvia, have helped to revitalise the club using many players who, like Evatt, were unwanted elsewhere. “QPR bought my contract out at the start of January, I’d had a good loan spell here and was more than happy to sign,” Evatt said. “But I was disappointed and felt let down a bit by how QPR treated me, especially towards the end.
“You just have to hold your head up and keep battling away and I’ve proved today I can play at Championship level, most of the lads have done. Going for promotion, as we are, that has got to give you confidence...”
Times

Dail Mail Leveller Evatt sends message to Gregory - By COLIN WOOD - Blackpool 1 Norwich 1
Ian Evatt clearly hopes his rescue act for Blackpool will come to the attention of Queens Park Rangers manager John Gregory and everyone at Loftus Road.
Norwich already know to their cost that they should have paid him more attention in a tie at Bloomfield Road which demonstrated that the FA Cup doesn't have to feature the glamour teams to be exciting.
Ian Evatt clearly hopes his rescue act for Blackpool will come to the attention of Queens Park Rangers manager John Gregory and everyone at Loftus Road....
The visitors also had reason to be grateful to Evatt for the defensive mistake that helped set up Darren Huckerby to shoot the opener after the three minutes added by referee Chris Foy had already been played at the end of the first half.
But seven minutes into the second period, they were cursing Evatt as he went forward to head the equaliser.
The tall, 25-year-old central defender feels he has no cause to be grateful to Gregory and QPR, who paid him off before he made his loan to Blackpool a permanent move this month.
Evatt played under Gregory for more than a year at Derby and admitted that he felt his old boss had treated him with "a lack of common courtesy".
Speaking of the latest parting, Evatt said: "He got sacked at Derby while I was there. Having known him a while it's disappointing that I didn't even get a phone call. I felt let down, the way I was treated at QPR towards the end. A few players will say the same thing. I did not speak to John Gregory, full stop."
But after netting his first goal for Blackpool - "the most important I've ever scored" - he doesn't intend to let that bitterness stop him enjoying his time ahead.His sights are set on promotion to the Championship and a place in the fifth round of the FA Cup - a stage the club last reached 17 years ago.
"I think I've proved against Norwich that I can play at Championship level and I think most of the lads have, as well," he said. "It will be nice to play on a better surface in the replay at Carrow Road. We've got some good footballers who like to pass the ball. We have to go there, test ourselves and see where we go."...
Mail

Guardian -Evatt settles the scores of a season Louise Taylor at Bloomfield Road
At half-time Ian Evatt felt absolutely wretched. The Blackpool centre-half had just made a hash of an attempted clearance and presented Darren Huckerby with a goal that, rather against the run of play, put Norwich ahead.
As Simon Grayson, Blackpool's manager, offered consolation, Evatt was probably imagining the expression on John Gregory's face when the QPR manager watched television highlights of his gaffe. "I hold my hands up for the goal but I'm proud of my defending and knew I just had to go back out and play my game," explained a man badly bruised by the way Gregory bundled him out of Loftus Road, but who exorcised his frustration by meeting David Fox's floated free-kick and heading a deserved second-half equaliser.
It earned Grayson's attractive League One side a replay but afterwards Blackpool's villain-turned-hero displayed greater enthusiasm for deconstructing Gregory than discussing the rematch. "I was bitterly disappointed by the way it ended at QPR; I felt a bit let down," said Evatt, who joined Blackpool, where he spent the early part of the season on loan, for nothing this month after QPR terminated his contract. "I didn't get one phone call from anyone at QPR to explain what was happening. And John Gregory didn't speak to me, full stop. That hurt but I've just got to hold my head up and try and get back into the Championship with Blackpool," added the 25-year-old who, although already borrowed by Grayson when Gregory took charge at Loftus Road, believed their earlier association at Derby County entitled him to a debrief, if not a second chance.
Things went badly wrong for the centre-half almost from the moment QPR's former manager, Ian Holloway, paid Chesterfield £150,000 for him and said he was the club's "new Glenn Roeder". Evatt's decent distribution failed to compensate for a lack of pace and a string of mishaps. Grayson, though, detected potential and Evatt has vindicated this by playing an important role in Blackpool's emergence as promotion contenders....
"We're disappointed not to have won," admitted Evatt. "But we'll enjoy the replay. The lads here all love the FA Cup; it definitely hasn't lost its shine for us." Guardian

Evatt - Telegraph Evatt proves worth to Blackpool peers - By Peter Gardner
Iain Evatt summed up the spirit when he declared: "These lads just don't know when they are beaten. We are on a great run in the league and go into every game expecting to win."
Evatt, initially on loan from Queens Park Rangers but secured permanently earlier this month, was punished for his injury-time error that enabled Darren Huckerby to give Norwich a half-time advantage. Evatt atoned seven minutes into the second period, his powerful header following David Fox's free kick evading visiting goalkeeper David Marshall, who kept his team in the competition with splendid saves in his first game of a loan-spell from Celtic.
Evatt admitted: "I hold up my hands for their goal. But my equaliser was the most important goal I have ever scored."
Evatt, who felt let down by his treatment from QPR, added: "Hopefully I'll get back to the Championship with Blackpool. I think I proved against Norwich that I can play at that level as most of the lads have and this type of performance will give us a lot more confidence." Telegraph

BIRTHDAYS: Steve Yates and Mark Stein

STEVE YATES TURNS 37
Steve Yates - Born January 29, 1970. Signed by Gerry Francis from Brisol Rovers as a replacement for Darren Peacock. Spent several years with QPR - Yates

Mark Stein Turns 40
Signed by Jim Smith in 1988 from Luton for 300,000 pounds (at the same time Simon Barker joined QPR) Played for QPR from 1988-1989. Was a great scorer for subsequent clubs Stoke and Chelsea!
Stein Stein

-
BBC - Rose's agent unhappy with reports
Matt Rose's agent is unhappy at reports the defender's contract with QPR was terminated because of injury problems.
The 31-year-old is now a free agent after he fell out of favour under Loftus Road boss John Gregory.
Tim Bailey said: "Matt's contract was terminated by mutual consent after negotiation with John Gregory.
"Matt is now fit and has been for a while and has no history of being injury prone, having played 242 games since he joined QPR."
The former Arsenal trainee, who left the Gunners for QPR in a £500,000 move in 1997, played in nine of the club's first 10 games this season.
But he has featured only three times for QPR under Gregory - once as a late substitute, plus two starting appearances, where he was withdrawn before the second half.
And he has not made an appearance for the Championship strugglers since he was sidelined in October.
Bailey added: "The manager has chosen not to select him following his injury in October 2006 from which he has now recovered. Prior to then he featured in virtually all of this season's fixtures." BBC

Announced January 27, 2007 - QPR Official Site - FAREWELL ROSIE
Rangers stalwart Matthew Rose has had his contract terminated with immediate effect.
The versatile defender - who made 237 appearances for the Hoops since moving to Loftus Road from Arsenal in 1997 - bows out during his tenth season at QPR, after a career which saw him mature into an accomplished player, capable of playing in defence or midfield.
A series of injuries hampered his Rangers career however, but after a successful operation on his foot in April, Rose was fighting fit for this season.
Rose played an integral part in the club gaining promotion to the Championship. During the 2002-03 season, he made 28 appearances and featured in the play-off semi final first leg against Oldham.
The following year, Rose started the game at Hillsborough which finally saw QPR climb into English football's second tier once again.
Rose continued to ply his trade all over the park for the following two seasons, however, a change in manager saw him fall down the pecking order and only make ten starts this season.
"I'd like to place on the record my thanks to Matthew for his contribution to the Football Club over the years,'' gaffer John Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Everyone here wishes him great success for the future.'' QPR Official

More on Matt Rose - Background & Interview - QPR Report

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - BOLD MOVE
New signing Adam Bolder is confident that Rangers can escape the relegation dogfight, otherwise he wouldn't be here.
The midfielder, who joins QPR from top of the table Derby County, has no fears at all of his new side becoming entangled in a scrap at the bottom of the table come May and knows he has a big part to play.
Conversations with Dexter Blackstock convinced the 26 year-old to put pen to paper and he's sure that he's made the right decision.
"Obviously I know John Gregory from his time at Derby and he told me that QPR are an ambitious club and I want to be part of that.
"Dexter played a huge role in my move, I know him from the time he spent on loan at Derby and he convinced me to make the move. It will be nice to have someone I know on my first day in training.
"I like to think that I can bring a lot of passion to the club and of course some goals. I just want to prove that I'm worthy of wearing the shirt."
Bolder will certainly find himself facing a different challenge when he pulls on the Hoops. Tackling the fight at the bottom of the table will be just as fierce as the current top of the table tussle with Derby and Birmingham. But he's certain that Rangers can turn it around.
"It's a massive fight down there at the bottom, but it's so tight that even the smallest of runs can turn it around. I don't doubt the squad's ability, I just think we need a bit of confidence.
"Hopefully that's where I come in and I'm looking forward to the hard work beginning." QPR

Additional on Bolder - QPR Report

-
This season marks the Silver Anniversary/Quarter of a Century of QPR's FA Cup (almost) Triumph. (Although the club seems to be focusing far more on another QPR Triumph: the 40th Anniversary of QPR's League Cup Triumph).

Twenty-Five years ago (plus a couple of days) was the last time a QPR player scored four goals in a first team game. That player of course, was Clive Allen. And the match was the 4th Round replay against Blackpool at Loftus Road. Terry Venables QPR won the game 5-1 (Allen 4, Stainrod, Penalty).

The team that night January 26, 1982:
Hucker
Fenwick Howe Roeder Gillard
Currie Gregory Waddock
Allen Stainrod Flanagan
Sub: Ian Stewart.

[Blackpool are somewhat of a lucky team for QPR. Recalling the 1969 6-1 victory over Blackpool at Loftus Road: Rodney Marsh 3: Barry Bridges 2 and Terry Venables 1); the opening day 5-0 victory over Blackpool in August 2003 (our promotion season); or the season before, the Langley hattrick at Blackpool.) And of course all QPR fans will remember it was Blackpool that QPR pipped on goal aggregate to win promotion to the old First Division.]

-
DEPARTING PLAYERS:
A number of QPR Players have been released in recent weeks:Adam Czerkas, Ian Evatt, Egutu Oliseh, Ugo Ukah (again), Scott Donnelly, Matthew Hislop, Matthew Rose, Jonathan Munday. In addition Tommy Doherty, Sean Thomas and Kevin Gallen are out on loan till the end of the season.

20.12.2006 - CZERKAS DEPARTS Polish front-man Adam Czerkas has had his loan contract terminated with immediate effect QPR

02.01 2007 EVATT DEPARTS QPR have parted company with defender Ian Evatt by mutual consent QPR

08.01.2007 OLI DEPARTS QPR have terminated Egutu Oliseh's contract with immediate effect - QPR

09.01.2007 UKAH LEAVES QPR have terminated defender Ugo Ukah's contract with immediate effect QPR

18.01.2007 DONNELLY DEPARTS QPR midfielder Scott Donnelly has had his contract terminated by mutual consent QPR

25.01.2007 HISLOP DEPARTS QPR defender Matthew Hislop has had his contract terminated with immediate effect QPR

25.01.2007 FAREWELL ROSIE Rangers stalwart Matthew Rose has had his contract terminated with immediate effect QPR

29.01.2007 - MUNDAY LEAVES - QPR defender Jonathan Munday has had his contract terminated with immediate effect
OUT - LOANS

02.01.2007 DOC DEAL QPR have extended the loan deal of Tommy Doherty to Wycombe Wanderers until the end of the season

01.01.2007 LOAN RANGER Goalkeeper Sean Thomas has joined League One outfit Bristol City on loan until the end of the season

10.01.2007 FRIENDS REUNITED Club Captain Kevin Gallen has joined Plymouth Argyle on loan until the end of the current Coca Cola Championship campaign
QPR

IN
04.01.2007 TV News FIN LANDS We catch up with Sampsa Timoska hours after he put pen to paper on an 18-month contract with the R's
10.01.2007 Latest ALL CLEAR Sampsa Timoska has received his international clearance

4.01.2007 - BOLDER SIGNS QPR are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Adam Bolder

LOAN STAYING
12.01.2007 Latest LOAN RANGER QPR have reached agreement with Chelsea to extend Michael Mancienne's loan deal until the end of the season

STAYING
05.01.2007 Latest THE REAL DEAL QPR hot-shot Ray Jones has ended speculation about his future by signing a three and a half year contract with the R's

THE SQUAD LIST AS ANNOUNCED AT THE BEGINNING OF THE SEASON

1. Simon Royce
2. Marcus Bignot
3. Mauro Milanese
4. Ian Evatt
5. Dan Shittu
6. Tommy Doherty
7. Matthew Rose
8. Marc Bircham
9. Nick Ward
10. Kevin Gallen
11. Gareth Ainsworth
12. Jake Cole
14. Martin Rowlands
15. Dominic Shimmin
16. Steve Lomas
17. Lee Cook
18. Stefan Moore
19. Tchakounte-A
20. Scott Donnelly
21. Paul Jones
22. Shabazz Baidoo
23. Stefan Bailey
24. Pat Kanyuka
25. Damion Stewart
26. Sean Thomas
29. Paul Furlong
30. Marc Nygaard
34. Matthew Hislop
35. John Munday

[Note: No Ugo Ukah in the squad as first announced. [QPR Official Site]

-
Preston Rescheduled: Given that Preston North End - unlike QPR! - have reached the 5th Round of the FA Cup, QPR's scheduled February 17th Home game against Preston will be rescheduled. A new date has yet to be set.

Stefan Bailey Suspended?:
On FA List of Suspensions, is "Suspended: Stefan Bailey 23/01/2007 until 09/02/2007
FA Discipliary List
In addition? Stefan Bailey, Queens Park Rangers FC
Luton Town FC v Queens Park Rangers FC
FA Cup Third Round Replay, 23 January 2007
Charge: FA Rule E3 – improper conduct
Bailey has admitted the charge and requested a personal hearing. A Disciplinary Commission will hear the case on Tuesday 13 February FA Disciplinary

Ex-QPR News: Victory for Ian Holloway/Kevin Gallen's Plymouth in the FA Cup against Barnet (where Clive Allen's son/Les Allen's Grandson/Bradley Allen's Nephew made his debut as a 90th minute substitute)Report ...Ian Evatt mistake led Blackpool a goal; Ian Evatt got the equalizer in the 1-1 draw in the FA Cup game at home to Norwich - Report
Lee Harper let in 5 as MK Dons, managed by ex-QPR's Martin Allen, lost 0-5 at Rochdale. Ex-QPR Loan Lloyd Dyer, was also playing for MK Dons. Ex-QPR loan, Leon Knight came on as substitute - Report
Finally ex-QPR goalie (and current QPR goalkeeping coach) Tony Roberts played for Dagenham as they won 4-1 against Exeter and remain top of the Nationwide Conference. Report

-
After almost ten years, Matthew Rose, now 31, leaves QPR. Signed from Arsenal by Stuart Houston in mid-1997 for 500,000 pounds, Rose played close to 250 league games for QPR, scoring 8 goals. One of those unlucky players, who was often injured.

Matt Rose Statistics - Soccerbase

QPR Net's Ron Norris August 2003 Q&A with Mathew Rose - Interview

QPR Official Site - Rose Statistics
"...Versatile defender Matthew Rose signed from Arsenal in May 1997 for a fee of £500,000.
Rose, who has been capped twice at England Under 21 level, made his Rangers debut on the opening day of the 1997/98 season against Ipswich Town.
Capable in a number of positions, he has matured into a very accomplished player who looks comfortable in possession and reads the game extremely well.
A series of injuries restricted Rose to just 15 appearances in 2005/06, but after a successful operation on his foot in April, he's hoping to hit the ground running at the start of next season.

Season 2006 - 07

Competition Apps
(as sub) Goals Yellow
Cards Red
Cards
League 10 (1) 0 1 0
League Cup 0 (1) 0 0 0

Career History:
Club Season Comp. Apps
(as sub) Goals
QPR 2005 - 06 League 15 (0) 0
FA Cup 1 (0) 0
QPR 2004 - 05 League 24 (4) 2
QPR 2003 - 04 League 15 (5) 0
QPR 2002 - 03 League 26 (3) 2
FA Cup 1 (0) 0
League Cup 1 (0) 0
QPR 2001 - 02 League 37 (2) 3
QPR 2000 - 01 League 27 (0) 0
FA Cup 2 (0) 0
League Cup 1 (0) 0
QPR 1999 - 00 League 27 (2) 1
League Cup 2 (0) 0
QPR 1998 - 99 League 27 (2) 0
FA Cup 1 (0) 0
League Cup 1 (0) 0
QPR 1997 - 98 League 13 (3) 0
League Cup 2 (0) 0
Arsenal 1996 - 97 League 1 (0) 0
Arsenal 1995 - 96 League 1 (3) 0

Official Site

Wikipedia on Rose - Wikipedia

Ironically, this was Matt Rose speaking in September 2006 on John Gregory
BBC - Rose demands patience for Gregory By Chris Bevan
QPR stalwart Matthew Rose says fans cannot expect new boss John Gregory to turn the club around immediately.
Gregory was appointed manager of the Championship's bottom club on Wednesday with his predecessor Gary Waddock becoming first-team coach.
Rose, who has played for eight managers at QPR since joining in 1997, told BBC Sport: "Fans will have to be patient.
"Things will take time to settle down while the players get to know the new manager and vice-versa."
The former Arsenal defender, who turns 31 on Sunday, feels he and his team-mates have to take responsibilty for the R's poor start to the season.
"The players have to put our hands up at some stage," Rose added. "It is not all Gary's fault - it is down to us as well.
"It was up to the board and they clearly thought the time was right to try something different.
"But another manager comes, and another manager goes - there have been so many at this club now.
"This is my 10th season here and and I have seen a lot of ups and downs. We cannot get relegated again - we need to stay in this division."
Rose feels Waddock had his hands tied by the R's financial situation and admits the club cannot compete on that basis with the bigger clubs in the Championship.
"Our poor start was down to a combination of things," he explained.
ROSE'S MANAGERS AT QPR
John Gregory (Sep 06 - )
Gary Waddock (Jun 06-Sep 06)
Ian Holloway (Feb 01-Jun 06)
Gerry Francis (Oct 98-Feb 01)
Iain Dowie (Sep 98-Oct 98)
Ray Harford (Dec 97-Sep 98)
John Hollins (Nov 97-Dec 97)
Stewart Houston (Sep 96-Nov 97)
"The club did not have a great deal of money to spend so it was a case of trying to introduce some young players as well as the new signings.
"There is a lot of talent coming through the youth system and Gary was trying to bring that through. The club has to try to find players that way rather than spending millions of pounds.
"It is always going to take time if you are going to do it that way and with as happened with Gary, time is something you don't get if you don't get the results.
"When we played Birmingham, their forward line is probably being paid more than our whole team. You are competing against a lot so it is a case of being patient and building for the future.
"I don't think we were far off but it was always going to be a transitional period. The club was planning more for the future really.
"But as I say, it is a results-business and results-wise things have not gone well so far this season."
Rose still feels the club need to stick to their guns and give home-grown players a chance - but knows they need older heads to guide them along too.
"Unless you get an input of big money you have to rely on your youngsters to come through and perhaps sell them on to make money to keep yourself going," he said.
"But injuries become more of a factor when you are relying on some of your more experienced players to bring them along.
"When a lot of those are injured - and we have been without Martin Rowlands, Gareth Ainsworth and Kevin Gallen this season - then you are just relying on the youngsters and they are being chucked in a the deep end.
"Experience goes a long way - especially in the Championship." BBC

-
(UPDATED Jan 28): QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WORTH THE WAIT
After beating a host of clubs for his signature, Gaffer John Gregory is convinced Adam Bolder will be a 'huge success' at Loftus Road.
Rangers swooped for the experienced 26 year-old on Saturday evening - with the former Derby County man penning a two and a half year contract.
Speaking moments after a deal had been struck with the Rams, Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk of his delight: "It's a fantastic coup for this Football Club,'' he said.
"We've worked tirelessly over the last few weeks to get him and I couldn't be more delighted.''
Gregory revealed the part played by Dexter Blackstock in attracting Bolder to W12.
"Dexter deserves a huge pat on the back because he's been nagging Adam to come here ever since he knew we were interested.
"They played together at Derby when he was there on loan and he obviously recognised what a decent addition he'd be to the squad.''
Bolder joined Derby County in March 2000 from Hull City, where he had made a number of promising first team appearances and was earmarked as one for the future.
He made his Rams debut versus Manchester United in May 2001, before bagging his first goals in a Derby shirt against Grimsby in August 2002.
In total, Bolder made 181 appearances in all competitions for the Rams, scoring 11 goals.
Gregory added: "He's a fantastic addition to Queens Park Rangers Football Club.
"The Chairman has pulled out all the stops in helping me get him here and I'm convinced he'll be a huge success.'' QPR

QPR Official Site - BOLDER SIGNS
QPR are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Adam Bolder.
The 26 year-old Derby County midfielder - who will wear the number 7 shirt vacated by Matthew Rose - has put pen to paper on a two and a half year contract with the R's.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, gaffer John Gregory revealed his delight at the news.
"I'm absolutely delighted.
"It's been a bit of a struggle because of interest from a host of other clubs, but we've got him on board and I'm ecstatic.''
Bolder will go straight into the Rangers side for the trip to Oakwell on Tuesday night.
"He's the ultimate professional,'' continued Gregory.
"He's consistent, passionate and has fantastic ability.
"He'll have a massive influence here and I'm delighted he's chosen us. It's a significant coup for this Football Club.''
Stay tuned to www.qpr.co.uk over the coming days for all the reaction to Bolder's arrival in W12. QPR

Derby Rivals on Adam Bolder Departure - Bolder

DETAILS ABOUT ADAM BOLDER -

Derby County Official Profile - Bolder
Wikipedia Profile - Bolder
Bolder - Soccerbase

Hull Manager Phil Brown on Bolder - Evening Telegraph Brown: Bolder can drive us
Phil Brown feels Derby County midfielder Adam Bolder can add "thrust and drive" to Hull City's midfield.
Bolder was talking to his home-town club last night about a possible return, having left almost seven years ago to join the Rams.
Queens Park Rangers, managed by another former Rams boss John Gregory, also want the 26-year-old.
Bolder spoke to Rangers on Wednesday and faces a choice between the London club and Hull.
There has been something of a U-turn by Hull.
Brown originally wanted Bolder on loan but this was ruled out by the player and Derby. Now any deal would be a permanent one.
Brown is well aware of the qualities Bolder will add to Hull's midfield.
"I know what Adam can do from the time when I was in charge at Derby," said Brown.
"He can give us a penetrating thrust from midfield and drive into the penalty box, which is what we're looking for in the three-man system we're currently playing."...
"Evening Telegraph

BBC Derby/Profile Q&A with Bolder (Date??)
In this new series, we take a closer look at Derby County's squad and find out about their life outside football. First up is midfielder Adam Bolder.

So what do you to relax when you're not playing football?

I've started playing quite a bit of golf recently. I've found that quite relaxing, just walking around the golf course. I'm starting to get a bit better at it now.

Were you taken with the Ryder Cup recently?

Yeah I watched a bit of that. I kept my eye on it. I think it's definitely better to play than to watch though.

Who do you model your game on?

Nobody! I'm not good enough to model my game on anyone yet!

Who do you room with on away trips?

I normally room with Jacko but he's been injured for the last few so I've been rooming with Big Mo! If there's a single bed and a double bed then I have to get in the single one. He's a big lad!

If you hadn't become a professional footballer, what do you think you would have done?

I think I probably would have trained and gone in the forces - or become a policeman or fireman. Something like that I reckon.

What sort of music do you listen to?

I've got quite a mixture. I don't dislike anything really, I like a bit of everything.

What's on your car stereo at the moment?

A little bit or R 'n' B, a bit of Coldplay. Nothing major.

What films have you been watching lately?

Oh we've got quite a lot of them. We watch them on away trips.

So you've all got your own personal DVD players to watch on the trips now?

Yeah I think a lot of the lads have them. It's for the long drives. You get bored sometimes so it's nice to relax for a couple of hours and watch a film or something.

Who's got the worst fashion sense at Derby?

Paul Boertien! I think I'm only saying that because he's my mate. He's not the best sometimes! But I think his missus has sorted him out now - she's dressing him a bit better.

And who plays his music the loudest in the changing rooms?

Doyley always has a bit of music on during away trips. He brings his DVD player along and plays a bit of music so I'd have to say him.

What do you watch on TV?

I like to watch Friends when it's on. That's always a good one.

And which newspapers do you read?

I don't read newspapers. I've never really paid too much attention to them.

Favourite holiday destination?

Somewhere that's not too far away because I don't really like travelling. We went to the Dominican Republic a couple of years ago and it rained for ten days out of 14 - we may as well have been in Grimsby!

What was the last concert you went to?

I've never been to a concert! Not one! I did go to the theatre in London to watch Saturday Night Fever with my missus though.

Where did you meet your girlfriend?

Back in Hull. I've known her eight years now so we've been together for quite a long time.

Favourite tipple?

Jack Daniels and Coke.

Your brother plays too doesn't he?

Yeah. He's in non-league at the moment. He was at Grimsby last season but he's at Ossett Town now.

And finally....what's your favourite goal you've scored?

There's not many to choose from! I would say my second one against Grimsby because it was against my brother's team at the time and it was live on Sky. So I'd have to say that one.

Interview with BBC Radio Derby's Colin Gibson. BBC Derby

Played against QPR in Derby's recent win at Loftus Road (missed an easy goal!) Report

-
Last time we were in the FA Cup Fourth Round, at Loftus Road...Had just played Luton in a replay...And just like then we were in an increasing-relegation fight (hopefully with a different ending this time, just as there was a different result in the replay).

January 27, 2001 - QPR 0 Arsenal 6
Guardian Rangers' stitching comes undone exposing the scars below
Martin Thorpe at Loftus Road Monday January 29, 2001 The Guardian

Gerry Francis got mugged down memory lane and it was sad to see. A likeable bloke and talented manager, he and his beloved Queens Park Rangers were brutally reminded how far they have both fallen since beating Arsenal was as common as a top-10 finish.
A combination of poor managerial appointments and lack of cash have turned the club into a candidate for one of those tabloid before-and-after pictures that show the effects of a bad face-lift.

The contrast must have been particularly galling not just for Francis but Rangers' former Gunners Chris Kiwomya, Matthew Rose, Steve Morrow and Lee Harper. Theirs was the only cup upset on view at Loftus Road on Saturday.
There is one way of looking at this game from which Rangers emerge in a better light. They spurned two great chances before Arsenal went 3-0 ahead, and that was only thanks to two own goals and a deflection.

This was Francis's line of defence afterwards and with games against Fulham and Bolton coming up one can understand him trying to strain positive thoughts from the dregs of defeat.

But even he privately cannot have been blind to the gulf in class, invention, touch, movement and ideas separating the sides. The threat even from this injury-hit Arsenal was evident from the start even if they did need help to cure their recent scoring sickness.

Admittedly, Rangers' policy of pumping high balls into the area did cause early problems and Peter Crouch missed from four yards and then saw his header smuggled off the line.

But having failed to comply with the first law of cup upsets (take your chances) Rangers then forgot the second: keep your concentration and shape.

From the clearance, Arsenal raced to the other end, caught Rangers short at the back and Chris Plummer panicked enough to divert Lee Dixon's cross into his own net. A minute later Sylvain Wiltord's strike hit Ian Baraclough to wrong-foot Ludek Miklosko and the game was all but over.

That Rangers had now been failed by the third law of cup upsets (the need for luck) was rubbed in five minutes into the second half when Rose deflected an Ashley Cole cross past his own keeper.

By then Francis had thrown on a third forward in a gallant attempt to play catch-up. It proved suicidal. Wiltord volleyed in No4 Pires clinically dispatched No5 and Dennis Bergkamp's cool finish completed the rout.

FA Cup
Saturday January 27, 2001
QPR 0-6 Arsenal
14' Lauren
26' Carlisle
32' 0-1 Plummer (og)
33' 0-2 Wiltord
49' Baraclough
50' 0-3 Rose (og)
57' 0-4 Wiltord
59' 0-5 Pires
75' 0-6 Bergkamp
76' Cole
QPR
Lee Harper, Ludek Miklosko, Ian Baraclough, Clarke Carlisle, Jermaine Darlington, Steve Morrow, Christopher Plummer, Matthew Rose, Sam Koejoe, Richard Langley, Gavin Peacock, Mark Perry, Karl Connolly, Peter Crouch, Chris Kiwomya, Michel Ngonge

Arsenal
Alex Manninger, David Seaman, Tony Adams, Ashley Cole, Lee Dixon, Gilles Grimandi, Igors Stepanovs, Nelson Vivas, Etame Mayer Lauren, Stefan Malz, Ray Parlour, Robert Pires, Patrick Vieira, Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry, Sylvain Wiltord
Referee:
Venue: Loftus Road
Attendance: 19,003
Corners: QPR 3 Arsenal 10
Goal Attempts: QPR 4 Arsenal 20
On Target: QPR 2 Arsenal 12

SUNDAY MIRROR

ARSENE Wenger fell back in love with the FA Cup last night - thanks to his six-shooting Gunners.

Yes, the Frenchman is all goggle-eyed again and whispering 'Mon Amour' for the world's most famous and oldest club competition.

He may not consider it as important and vital to his season as before, with no Champions League place at stake - but he clearly still wants to win it.

There was no hiding the enjoyment and satisfaction he gleaned from seeing his side blow their London rivals away in a huge puff of smoke at Loftus Road.

It was a clinical, uncompromising performance that left Rangers punch drunk and thankful they don't cross swords them very often these days.

Goals from Sylvain Wiltord (2), Robert Pires, Dennis Bergkamp, Chris Plummer (og) and Matthew Rose (og) made a mockery of Rangers' hopes of defying the odds.

And Wenger, unlike Maggie Thatcher, was in the mood for doing a quick U-turn.

He insisted: "Our priorities are to do well in both the FA Cup and Championship. Of course I would be very happy if we could go all the way to the Final and win it.

"I just said that it would be silly to throw everything into winning the Cup and neglect the Championship just because Manchester United are looking firm favourites to win the title.

'To lose this game would have been a big disappointment to me and the players - and I think you saw how much it meant to the team to get further in the competition.

"I felt we were always in control. We could have won by more goals but I was happy with the six. But I would have been happy had we won 1-0 as well.

"We had some luck going for us for a change today. It's something that has been against us for most of this season.

"The first three goals went in off their players but from then on you could see our players lift their game and play better."

Gerry Francis' First Division side were simply no match for a group of Arsenal players who clearly do care a great deal about getting to the Final.

The last time these two teams met in cup combat was 11 years ago. On that occasion David Seaman was in goal for Rangers and John Lukic for Arsenal.

Rangers held their own for half an hour during which time Seaman saved twice from the gangly Peter Crouch and Chris Plummer.

He was also relieved to watch a Crouch close-range volley bounce into the side-netting. But no matter how desperate, determined and dedicated Rangers were to the potential giant-killing cause, they were simply out-classed.

You always sensed that the moment Arsenal's mixture of stars found their rhythm it would signal the end of this clash as a contest.

Unfortunately for Rangers that's exactly what happened just after half an hour when Lady Luck scowled down at Francis and Co.

One moment the hooped shirts were begging referee Neil Barry for a goal, the next they were picking the ball out of their own net.

It looked a close-run thing when Ashley Cole hooked the ball from under his own crossbar after Crouch's header from Ian Baraclough's corner flew under Seaman's body.

But while arms went up in vain, and Barry waved play on, Wenger's men merely marched down the other end to score one that did count.

Lee Dixon's dangerous cross from the right was turned into his own net by the despairing Plummer under pressure from Arsenal shirts.

Wiltord hammered in the second blow barely seconds later with a rifling low shot that deflected past helpless keeper Ludek Miklosko.

In the blink of an eye those Rangers' fans hopes were dashed.

And the Gunners' contingent in the 19,003 crowd - easily Rangers' best of the season - sat back and relaxed to enjoy a totally convincing victory.

Another Rangers own goal in the 49th minute put the result beyond question. This time the victim in blue and white was Matthew Rose.

To his utter despair the one-time Arsenal youngster, with Wiltord baring down on him, turned Cole's cross past Miklosko.

Rangers boss Francis used to enjoy his battles with Arsenal during his days as Spurs manager.

He had a half-decent record as well. But he didn't enjoy this encounter.

Wiltord helped himself to his second, and Arsenal's fourth, in the 56th minute - a fierce right-foot volley that flew in off the far post with Miklosko floundering.

When Pires joined in the fun with a fifth - shooting cooly in from Ray Parlour's pass two minutes later - it became painful to watch for the majority of the crowd.

Number six was an ice-cool finish from Bergkamp who had, until then, sat back and watched his team-mates rip Rangers apart. He swept through the defence 15 minutes from time and left Miklosko stranded, tucking his shot beneath him.

Wiltord was denied a hat-trick by Miklosko, who also saved well from Parlour. But six was enough for Arsenal and left Rangers boss Francis moaning: "We didn't get any breaks and played well for half an hour.

"We were on top at the time they scored two quick goals - but now we have to learn from this experience and pick ourselves up." Mirror

-
Clive Allen's Son...Les Allen's Grandson...Bradley Allen's Nephew. Oliver Allen, is supposedly scheduled to make his Barnet debut today against Ian Holloway's Plymouth. When Plymouth's on-loan striker, Kevin Gallen began his QPR career, "Uncle" Bradle was still at QPR.

Mirror -OLI ADDS TO ALLEN DYNASTY
BARNET v PLYMOUTH, TODAY, 3PM By Aidan Magee

OLIVER ALLEN has been told not to worry about trying to live up to the goalscoring exploits of his father.
The son of Spurs legend Clive makes his Barnet debut today in the FA Cup against Plymouth, days after being shown the door at Birmingham despite 13 goals in 18 reserve games.
The 20-year-old is the latest in the Allen footballing dynasty, going back to his grandfather Les, who was in Spurs' 1961 Double-winning team.
Clive played in two finals for QPR and Tottenham, scoring 49 goals in the 1986-7 season.
His younger brother Bradley enjoyed success at QPR, yet admits being compared with Clive was a burden.
However, he has backed his nephew to be a success at Underhill, where Bradley's cousin Martin Allen was boss following his playing days at QPR and West Ham.
"We're all very proud of Oliver because it continues the family line and he's had a difficult path through to turning pro," said Bradley.
"He went to Birmingham and had a competent scoring record in the reserves, but suffered as there would only be a match every two or three weeks.
"They didn't see him as a long-term prospect and I'm pleased Barnet have decided to give him a go.
All credit to Paul Fairclough for doing so.
"I've spoken to Oliver and he knows there's a lot of hard work to do from now and having such a famous dad can be difficult.
"You can't always live up to previous levels and the expectation that goes with it."
Another cousin, Paul Allen, remains the youngest player to win the FA Cup, doing so with West Ham in 1980 aged 17. Mirror

-
QPR Official Site - FAREWELL ROSIE
Rangers stalwart Matthew Rose has had his contract terminated with immediate effect.
The versatile defender - who made 237 appearances for the Hoops since moving to Loftus Road from Arsenal in 1997 - bows out during his tenth season at QPR, after a career which saw him mature into an accomplished player, capable of playing in defence or midfield.
A series of injuries hampered his Rangers career however, but after a successful operation on his foot in April, Rose was fighting fit for this season.
Rose played an integral part in the club gaining promotion to the Championship. During the 2002-03 season, he made 28 appearances and featured in the play-off semi final first leg against Oldham.
The following year, Rose started the game at Hillsborough which finally saw QPR climb into English football's second tier once again.
Rose continued to ply his trade all over the park for the following two seasons, however, a change in manager saw him fall down the pecking order and only make ten starts this season.
"I'd like to place on the record my thanks to Matthew for his contribution to the Football Club over the years,'' gaffer John Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Everyone here wishes him great success for the future.'' QPR

QPR Official Site - KANYUKA CALL UP
Rangers defender Pat Kanyuka has been granted his first international call up from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The 19 year old has been requested for the Congo's match against Gabon which will be played at the Stade Jules Deschaseaux in France. The friendly game acts as part of the build up to the African Cup of Nations in Ghana in 2008.
Kanyuka will line up alongside a host of Premiership and Championship stars including Portsmouth's Lomana LuaLua, Chelsea's Yves Makaba-Makalamby, Fulham's Gabriel Zakuani, Newcastle's Charles N'Zogbia, Blackburn Rovers' Shabani Nonda and Southampton's Cedric Baseya.
Kanyuka was delighted with the news: "Every footballer wants to play for their country, I was born there, as was my Dad and my parents are really proud of me. They will both be at the game watching as a lot of my family live out in France.
"When I spoke to the country's football federation, they told me that they were looking to build a youthful side and I was amazed at the talent that we have in the Premiership these days. For so long it was only really the likes of LuaLua that everyone had heard of, but now there is a whole host of household names in the Premiership.
"I'll learn so much in that week away, even just training with the likes of Lomana and Shabani Nonda will be an experience.
"I'm really looking forward to it and I think Congo have got a great shot in Ghana next year."
Qualification has already begun with Congo topping their group with four points after two games. They currently sit above Ethiopia, Namibia and Libya. QPR

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - FA CHARGE
QPR have been charged by the Football Association for a breach of FA rule E20 (a) in respect of the Luton Town FA Cup third round replay.
The charge relates to an incident that followed Stefan Bailey's second half dismissal at Kenilworth Road.
The rule states: "Each affiliated association, competition and club shall be responsible for ensuring that it's directors, players, officials, employees, servants, representatives, spectators, and all persons purporting to be its supporters or followers, conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and refrain from any one or combination of the following; racist, violent, threatening, abusive, obscene or provocative behaviour, conduct or language whilst attending at, or taking part in, a match in which it is involved, whether on its own ground or elsewhere.''
The Club has until Monday 12th February to respond to the charge. QPR

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - BAILEY CHARGE
Following an incident at Kenilworth Road on Tuesday night, Stefan Bailey has been charged with misconduct by the FA.
The incident occurred following his dismissal during the FA Cup third round replay.
He has requested a personal hearing and the case will be heard on Tuesday 13 February. QPR

BBC Gossip - reDean Parrett
Tottenham have emerged as favourites ahead of Chelsea to sign QPR's England U-16 midfielder Dean Parrett. (Daily Mail) BBC

QPR Goalie, Paul Jones is once again called up by Wales
Jones is in the Welsh Squad for the February 6th game against Northern Ireland.
Welsh Squad

-
Dons are expelled from FA Trophy
Darlington played for the "old" Wimbledon FC before joining Watford AFC Wimbledon have been expelled from the FA Trophy for fielding an ineligible player - and opponents Gravesend & Northfleet are reinstated.
The FA ruled that Dons midfielder Jermaine Darlington had not obtained international clearance after leaving Cardiff City last year.
The Dons won their second round tie at Gravesend 1-0 - but the Fleet will now face Rushden & Diamonds in round three.
Wimbledon must also repay £7,000 prize money from previous rounds.
A club statement read: "The decision is a consequence of an unfortunate administrative error and AFC Wimbledon is suffering a a result of an FA crackdown on such situations as evidenced by the sanctions imposed on Bury in relation to this season's FA Cup."
Bury were thrown out of the FA Cup after fielding an ineligible player in their second round tie against Chester - who were reinstated.
The FA decision is final and binding, and Wimbledon have no right of appeal.
However, the Dons have also been charged with a breach of Ryman League rules in relation to fielding Darlington in league games while he was ineligible. BBC

AFC DONS STATEMENT - Thursday 25 January 2007
After an FA disciplinary hearing today, the club has been informed that AFC Wimbledon have been removed from this season's FA Trophy competition and Gravesend & Northfleet have been reinstated. The club will also have to repay £7,000 of prize money from the first round and the third qualifying round.

The committee concluded that further FA sanctions would not be appropriate and therefore there has been no fine imposed and the club is free to enter the FA Trophy in future seasons.

The decision is a consequence of an unfortunate administrative error and AFC Wimbledon is suffering a a result of an FA crackdown on such situations as evidenced by the sanctions imposed on Bury in relation to this season's FA Cup.

The decision is final and binding and there can be no appeal.

The club has also been informed that the Ryman Football League is charging us with a breach of league rule 6.1 in fielding a player before having obtained an international transfer certificate.

The club will make a further statement at a later time. Dons

GRAVESEND STATEMENT
At a FA Trophy Sub-Committee meeting today, AFC Wimbledon were expelled from this season's competition after fielding an ineligible player in the Second Round Proper.
The club were charged on 19 January after Jermaine Darlington played in the tie against Gravesend & Northfleet on 13 January.

Darlington had previously played for Cardiff City and had not obtained international clearance before representing AFC Wimbledon, as required by competition rules.

As a result, Gravesend & Northfleet have been reinstated into the competition and will receive the £5,000 prize fund payment from the Second Round Proper. They will now play Rushden & Diamonds on 3 February.

In addition, as Darlington also played in the previous FA Trophy ties against Eastleigh and Aldershot Town, AFC Wimbledon have been ordered to repay the prize money received from these rounds, totalling £7,000. Gravesend

Jermaine Darlington Profile -
Date of Birth: 11/04/74
Profile: Became the first player to play League football for both Wimbledon FC and AFC Wimbledon when he signed in October 2006. Known by Dave Anderson from their non-league days at Aylesbury, Jermaine also enjoyed a distinguished professional career at QPR, Watford and Cardiff before returning to the Dons, where he has used his experience to quickly catch the eye with some composed and skilful displays on the left wing.

Dons

-
Ex-QPR Midfielder Justin Cochrane Turns 25 (Born Janaury 26, 1982)

After being released by QPR after making one league appearance as substitute (and getting sent off in April 2001), Cochrane joined non-league Hayes. Then went to Crewe, Gillingham (on loan) and he's now at Rotherham.

Rotherham Profile - Cohrane

Wikipedia Profile of Cochrane - Cochrane

Match Report of Cochrane's one brief QPR appearance
BBC - Saturday, 28 April, 2001, QPR 0-3 Stockport

Relegated Rangers plummeted to new depths of despair as they crashed to a miserable defeat against 10-man Stockport County at Loftus Road.
Just when you thought it could not get any worse for QPR it probably did as they failed to make any impact on a County side who were reduced to 10 men after just 25 minutes.
The Londoners conceded two goals in 10 second-half minutes before having debut boy Justin Cochrane sent off for a late tackle.
County looked to be facing a huge uphill task to get anything out of this game when defender Shane Nicholson was sent off after just 25 minutes.
His late tackle on QPR winger Leon Knight earned him a straight red card but in truth QPR never looked like exploiting their extra man.
In fact, from the start of the second half it was the visitors calling the shots and within two minutes they were in front.
Mike Flynn crossed in from the right and when defender Christer Warren let it bounce over his leg it allowed Aaron Wilbraham to nip in and finish coolly from just six yards.
On 55 minutes they doubled their lead.
Warren conceded a free-kick on the edge of the box and when Ali Gibb swung it in low, Karim Fradin got to it first to poke the ball in from close range.
QPR boss Ian Holloway had made changes for this game, with striker Richard Pacquette getting his first start and Ben Walshe, Terry McFlynn and Cochrane all making their debuts in the second half.
But it was like men against boys as Stockport continued to dominate.
On the hour County almost made it three when Gibb crossed again to the excellent Shefki Kuqi whose header was superbly saved by Lee Harper.
And things took another turn for the worse for the home side on 71 minutes when Cochrane received a straight red card after a late tackle on Kuqi.
With eight minutes to go the QPR misery was complete.
Chris Plummer tripped Kuqi in the box and the midfielder hauled himself off the ground to score confidently from the penalty spot to make it 3-0.
QPR hardly created a chance all afternoon with perhaps their best efforts coming courtesy of Stockport when, on 29 minutes, Knight's cross from the right was met by County defender Robert Claire.
His header would have gone into his own net but for a stunning save by Stockport keeper Lee Jones.
In the end it could have been a more empathetic victory with Kuqi twice denied by Harper in the first half as County took a giant stride towards First Division survival.
For Holloway and Rangers the season can not end soon enough.
Teams:
QPR: Harper, Darlington, Plummer, Baraclough, Warren, Knight, Perry, Bignot, Wardley, Thomson, Paquette. Subs: Bull, Kiwomya, McFlynn, Walshe, Cochrane.

Stockport: Jones, Flynn, Clare, Woodthorpe, Gibb, Smith, Fradin, Nicholson, Hurst, Kuqi, Wilbraham. Subs: Turner, Clark, Maxwell, Byrne, Bergersen.
Referee: T Jones (Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria) BBC

-
Nice words about Ex-QPR midfielder Paul Murray by a former Carlisle Manager. Murray was signed from Carlisle by Ray Wilkins for 300,000 pounds at the end of our 1996 Premiership relegation season. While at QPR he was capped by the England U-21 and England B team before getting some bad injuries and left the club on a free. After playing for Southampton and Oldham, he is currently back at Carlisle

News and Star - January 25, 2007 - I hope Paul has knee more bother
IF any player deserves a change of fortune, it’s Paul Murray.
I’m so pleased to see him back playing for Carlisle United again and this time I hope his knee problem has cleared up once and for all.
I’ll never forget my first day at Carlisle because it coincided with Paul’s first day as a YTS player.
I remember David Wilkes, the youth team coach, coming up to me with this young lad and saying, ‘Boss, this is Paul Murray and there’s something he would like to say to you’.
Then Paul looked me right in the eye and, as bold as brass, he said, ‘I’m going to play in the first team this season’. And he did.
I honestly thought Paul would go on to play for England.
When he moved to QPR he became an Under-21 and ‘B’ international, which shows they were seriously looking at him for the senior team.
But he has been one of the unluckiest players I have known with injuries – from the first injury at QPR through to the terrible time he has had with his knee from when he was playing in Portugal.
In terms of attitude, spirit, determination and effectiveness, I am probably Paul’s biggest fan.
I have tried to sign him a few times, even though I seem to have moved on not long after he followed me to various clubs!
He is 30 now and he appreciates how valuable his time on the pitch is. I keep in regular touch with him and his attitude is so refreshing.
Here’s hoping he now gets a long run of being injury-free.
News and Star

Carlisle Profile of Murray - Murray

Wikipedia on Paul Murray - Murray

QPR Net's Ron Norris 2002 Interview with Paul Murray - Interview

-
One hundred days ago, Gary Wadock's departure from Loftus Road was announced by the club, employing the phrase "[QPR] have parted company with Gary Waddock." What made this "surprising" was that Waddock's departure came just weeks after Chairman Paladini and new manager, John Gregory had specifically declared that the demoted Waddock would be staying and working with and under (and learning from) new manager, Gregory. It was also made stranger by the choice of wording.
Waddock was appointed first acting manager last February after Chairman Paladini placed Ian Holloway on "Gardening Leave", and then "permanent" manager in June.
In recent weeks, several of the players signed this summer during the Waddock managership have departed the club. Whether Waddock was solely and entirely responsible for finding and signing them, is an interesting question.

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.
Statement

How Paladini and Gregory and Waddock described Waddock's new role immediately after the change of managers -
Waddock "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." Paladini and Gregory on Waddock's New Role

NB: Chairman Paladini's September 22 comments re John Gregory's appointment as manager, and Gary Waddock's role in the new regime
Paladini Video

Waddock's Managerial Record 3 wins in 22 games. One win in his last 19 games.
2005/06 Played 14: 2 wins 5 draws 7 Lost
2006/2007: Played 8: 1 Win, 3 Draws, 3 Losses
2006/2007 Season
L - Burnley 2-0 QPR 05-08-2006
D - QPR 2-2 Leeds 08-08-2006
W - QPR 2-0 Southend 12-08-2006
D - Preston 1-1 QPR 19-08-2006
L - QPR 1-3 Ipswich 25-08-2006
D - Plymouth 1-1 QPR 09-09-2006
L - QPR 0-2 Birmingham 12-09-2006
L - Colchester 2-1 QPR 16-09-2006
2005/2006 Season-
W - QPR 1-0 Millwall 11-02-2006
L - C Palace 2-1 QPR 14-02-2006
W - Sheff Utd 2-3 QPR 25-02-2006
D - QPR 0-0 Wolves 04-03-2006
D - Sheff Wed 1-1 QPR 11-03-2006
D - QPR 1-1 Brighton 18-03-2006
D - Cardiff 0-0 QPR 25-03-2006
L - QPR 1-2 Stoke 29-03-2006
L - QPR 1-2 Crewe 01-04-2006
L - Burnley 1-0 QPR 08-04-2006
D - QPR 1-1 Derby 15-04-2006
L - Norwich 3-2 QPR 17-04-2006
L - QPR 1-2 Watford 22-04-2006
L - Reading 2-1 QPR 30-04-2006
Waddock Record

-
Bohemian Official Site - QPR made late bid for Heary
Queen’s Park Rangers made a late bid to capture new Bohs signing Owen Heary, according to the Irish Sun.
But Heary is now settled at Dalymount and says he he’s not prepared to wait to win medals to add to his haul so far.
"I am here for three years at least so I want to win three more in that time. I want to be playing in the Champions League and the only way you can do that is by winning the league,” he told the Sun’s Neil O’Riordan.
"I think it's realistic to challenge for the league. I don't see why not. You might think that with eight new players in you would be happy with finishing fourth or third but I will still want to win the league."
With Neale Fenn also unveiled yesterday, Darren Mansaram signed from Sligo Rovers, and Finn Harps' Davitt Walsh training with Bohs, there are three new forwards at Phibsboro.
But Connor would like to add a fourth - Glen Crowe - believing he would be the perfect partner for Fenn, who has not been a regular scorer during his career. Crowe is hoping to be granted a free release from Shelbourne by Thursday.
Connor said: "I think Neale is as good a centre-forward as any in the League while Owen has been the best attacking right-back in this League, perhaps of all time. I think their signing shows the ambition of the club.
"Gary Beckett made Derry City tick and Neale will make us tick this season. Others can get the goals but I am sure he will want to get some himself.
"We haven't brought him in to score 20 or more goals, we know he won't do but we know he will use his craft and guile to create chances for others.
"Glen Crowe would be the type of quality player I would be interested in bringing to the football club and I would love to see Glen and Neale play together. I think it would be a great combination.
"Some of the issues are outside of my control but if you are asking me is that the type of player I am interested in then the answer is yes."
Crowe is not Connor's only target, as he also wants Sligo midfielder Chris Turner, a centre-half and a keeper to replace Barry Ferguson and Matt Gregg.
Connor said: "We need to bring in another two or three. They have to be of the right calibre and of the right age profile. We have two very experienced players now so we might need to have some younger players so the balance is right.
"It's no secret we've made an offer for Chris Turner but we haven't had an official response yet. He would be one of my key targets.
I was the one who brought him over from England. I thought he did well for Sligo and he's got potential. If we could get him in and work him with the players here it would be good for him." Bohemian

-
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - BEST OF THE BEST
QPR have been nominated for two accolades at this year's Football League Awards. Here's a round up of all of the categories and who's on the short list.
Community Club of the Year - sponsored by Wickes
Brighton & Hove Albion
Colchester United
Millwall
Norwich City
Queens Park Rangers
West Bromwich Albion

Best Community Initiative - sponsored by The Football Foundation
Brentford
Brighton & Hove Albion
Norwich City
Plymouth Argyle
Scunthorpe United
Wolverhampton Wanderers

Best Club Sponsorship - sponsored by Carling
Brentford
Ipswich Town
Walsall

Best Club Marketing Campaign
Milton Keynes Dons
Norwich City
Nottingham Forest
Preston North End
Stoke City
Wolverhampton Wanderers

Best Matchday Programme - sponsored by PA Sport
Cardiff City
Colchester United
Crystal Palace
Hull City
Plymouth Argyle
Queens Park Rangers
Stockport County

Best Use of New Media - sponsored by Sega Football Manager
Cardiff City
Leicester City
Norwich City
Nottingham Forest
Preston North End
Sunderland

Best Kit Design
Burnley
Huddersfield Town
Hull City
Norwich City
Milton Keynes Dons
Mansfield Town QPR

QPR OFFICIAL SITE -COMMUNITY PRAISE
QPR have been nominated for the Community Club of the Year accolade at the Football League Awards.
Rangers, along with Brighton & Hove Albion, Colchester United, Millwall, Norwich City and West Bromwich Albion will go head to head at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Sunday 4th March to determine the winner.
Community Scheme Manager Andy Evans said: "We think that the Communities that we work in across the five Boroughs are made up of individuals. What makes a community are those individuals within it.
"We focus on people within the programme and the work that we do has a direct impact on those individuals who must feel that their life opportunities have improved as a result of their interaction with QPR in the Community.
"The QPR in the Community Scheme is now operating at a greatly enhanced level of provision and is making a very substantial contribution to the people of the West London Community. The range of activities is extremely diverse.
"Because of our highly adaptable working practices and ambition, we have been able to respond to emerging opportunities and experience growth. As a result, there has been a rising in the standards of provision and these improvements are evident in areas such as increased staff expertise, particularly in work with young people at risk.
"The overall impact of the programme to the quality of life of an immense number of people each year should not be undervalued. A good vibrant scheme has a positive effect on the quality of life experienced by residents of our local community - who are the long term future of our club.
"There is an admirably strong degree of loyalty to the football club among the scheme's staff. Success has only been possible with dynamic, inspirational and hard working staff."
"It is important to recognise that communities are made up of individuals - people. Time and investment of skills in people, that is what will make stronger, sustainable communities. Through all our programmes that is our aim."
Over 130 industry entries were received across all three divisions and twenty five clubs have been short listed for this year's Awards. The winners will be announced at the second annual Football League Awards which will take place at London's Grosvenor House on Sunday 4th March 2007.
Expert judging panels were assembled for each category and the process of evaluating each entry took place at The Football League's headquarters on 18th and 19th January.
Stewart Thomson, Commercial Director of The Football League said: "The Football League Awards incorporating FourFourTwo's Top 50 Players aim to champion achievements off the pitch as well as on it. The quality of the entries is testament to the innovative community, marketing and sponsorship programmes that clubs throughout The League are undertaking in order to maintain their places at the heart of the community."

The inaugural event was televised on Sky Sports 1, further information regarding this year's TV schedule will follow. QPR

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - PROGRAMME HONOURED
The QPR matchday programme has been named as one of seven finalists in the Football League Awards' Best Matchday Programme category.
'Hoops' along with programmes from Cardiff City, Colchester United, Crystal Palace, Hull City, Plymouth Argyle and Stockport County will battle it out at the Grosvenor House Hotel on March 4 for the honour to claim the Best Matchday Programme title.
The Football League Awards, incorporating the FourFourTwo Top 50 Football League Players, is an annual gala event which recognises all that contribute to exceptional achievements both on and off the field.
Press and Publications Manager Jackie Bass said: "It's heartening to know that in today's world of website and SMS technology, that the Football League still host tribute the time honoured tradition of the matchday programme.
"Myself and my colleague Ian Taylor are immensely proud of the fact that we have been nominated and we believe this is a testament to the hard work that is put in to the programme week in, week out, not just by us, but also by Dunwoody Publishing and all of our contributors.

"We have seen a host of impressive programmes up and down the country on our travels this season and are proud to be considered one of the best.
"The size of our department coupled with our daily workload also makes us rightly proud of being in the top seven of the 72 clubs that the awards were open to.
"We look forward to making the programme even better next year and hopefully the result on March 4 will be a favourable one."
Over 130 industry entries were received across all three divisions and twenty five clubs have been shortlisted for this year's Awards. The winners will be announced at the second annual Football League Awards which will take place at London's Grosvenor House on Sunday 4th March 2007.
Expert judging panels were assembled for each category and the process of evaluating each entry took place at The Football League's headquarters on 18th and 19th January.
The inaugural event was televised on Sky Sports 1, further information regarding this year's TV schedule will follow. QPR

-
BBC - Bircham fears QPR career is over
Marc Bircham fears he has played his last game for QPR.
A specialist is next week expected to confirm that Bircham, 28, requires a back operation and will almost certainly miss the rest of the season.
The midfielder's contract expires in the summer and he looks unlikely to be offered a new deal.
Bircham, a lifelong R's fan, admitted: "I'm gutted. I hope I haven't played my last game for the club, but it looks like I have."
Bircham has been plagued by hamstring problems this season and surgery on his lower back now seems the only option.
"I should know more next week, but at this stage it's a case of waiting to see what the specialist says," he explained.
"It's been troubling me for a while and considering the pain I've been in, when I've played I don't think I've done too badly.
"I really wanted to play on and avoid having the operation, but when I came off on against Southampton on Saturday I realised I couldn't delay it any longer."
Meanwhile, Rangers have formally announced that the contract of left-back Matthew Hislop has been terminated by mutual consent.
Hislop, 19, was one of a number of players recently told they had no future at the west London club. BBC

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - HISLOP DEPARTS
QPR defender Matthew Hislop has had his contract terminated by mutual consent.
The 19 year-old left sided defender made just a solitary league appearance since joining the R's in March 2005.
QPR would like to thank Matthew for his services and wish him all the best for the future.QPR

-
The Times - January 25, 2007 The Insider - Kevin Eason
Queens Park Rangers, the troubled Coca-Cola Championship club, have narrowly avoided a date in the High Court after agreeing to pay the St John Ambulance service an outstanding sum, thought to be about £18,000. St John lawyers lodged a date of February 21 for a winding-up order, but QPR have come to an arrangement to pay in instalments.
Supporters remain worried that the club are a little like a Christmas shopaholic facing up to depressing new year debts. Meetings with Gianni Paladini, the chairman, have not eased their fears after he reported that the club had cashflow problems. Many blame hefty repayments on the £10 million high-interest loan with the Panama-registered ABC Corporation, which helped the club to stagger out of administration five years ago.
With outstanding debts including a large bill from the Inland Revenue, the last thing QPR needed was to be dumped out of the FA Cup on Tuesday night by Luton Town. A third-round victory guarantees prize-money of £40,000, but a Cup run, no matter how modest, could have netted the club £250,000 or more from television income. The Times

DAILY MAIL - QPR sued over unpaid first aid By ROBERT MENDICK -
Queen's Park Rangers football club has been served with a winding up order for failing to pay its first aid bill.
The St John Ambulance, which provides cover at all home games at Loftus Road, sued the club for the non-payment of bills, according to court documents.
The club owed St John Ambulance a little over £17,000 — equivalent to a day’s wages for John Terry, captain of QPR’s biggest rivals Chelsea — but the charity has been forced to drag the club through the courts to extract the money.
The charity served the club with a winding up petition in December.
The petition gives the club until 21 February to settle the bill or be declared insolvent.
A spokeswoman for QPR said St John Ambulance had now received two cheques from the club and the final instalment was due on 1 February.
A spokeswoman for St John Ambulance said: "We are committed to supporting QPR." Daily Mail

-
This is Swindon Fans to get the Power


BILL Power has assured Swindon Town fans they have a huge role to play in the club’s future, if the fans’ consortium takeover bid is successful, writes ANDY CRYER.

The consortium’s main backer sent out a letter to the members of TrustSTFC, received by many yesterday, reaffirming his commitment to the cause.

In a major step forward on Tuesday, the club agreed to meet with Power, pictured, to discuss the way forward and he has pledged a ‘close working relationship with the fans’ if successful.

Power also praised consortium leader Mike Wilks and members of the Trust as the club revealed their intent to sideline them from discussions.

Power’s letter, which will be received by almost 1000 people, said: “For the future I see a close working relationship with all fans of the club.

“I am committed to fans owning a share in the club and taking part in the club as a business, as well as enjoying direct influences at board level through elected supporter directors.

“I personally believe that fans involvement in the running of the club in this way is crucial to the ongoing revival of the club’s fortunes.

“One thing I have learnt over many years as both a fan and a club chairman is that without the support, goodwill and cooperation of the club’s fanbase, no amount of money will produce success on the field or stability off it.”

Power also reaffirmed his desire, together with the consortium, to sorting out existing financial problems, support the development of the team and the club and to see through a County Ground redevelopment plan.

He said: “Members of the Trust board and Mike have provided outstanding support and leadership to the efforts made over the past few months.

“Make no mistake the fans consortium does indeed represent a highly motivated group of investors and fans who share a common passion both for STFC and football generally.”

BILL POWER'S LETTER TO TRUST MEMBERS

Dear fan,

There has been some debate recently regarding the relationship between
myself, Trust, STFC and the project we call the Fans Consortium. I would like to clarify the situation and to provide some personal thoughts on how I see the groups working together as matters progress.

When I was approached by Mike Wilks and the Trust to re-engage with the football club, I wanted to ensure that our relationship would work both on a
business and personal level before making any public commitment. To this end, members of the Trust board and Mike have provided outstanding support and leadership to the efforts made over the past few months.

It is fair to say that my own involvement at the club was in serious doubt due to the severe nature of my injuries following the plane crash and without their efforts and encouragement I doubt whether I could have pursued this project.

Make no mistake, the Fans Consortium does indeed represent a broad and highly motivated group of investors and fans who share a common passion both for STFC and football generally.

Self evidently, until we have some degree of control at the football club many of the plans we have outlined cannot be implemented. However, should we achieve our objectives, I and the Fans Consortium remain absolutely committed to providing a solution to the existing financial problems of the club, to supporting both the development of the team and the club as a business, as well as seeing through the excellent County Ground redevelopment plan published recently by the Trust, which will benefit both the club and the community.

For the future I see a close working relationship with all fans of the club, whereby Trust members and fans from all organisations work in co-operation with myself as an owner of the club to fulfil the undoubted potential that exists. I am committed to fans owning a share in their club and taking part in the club as a business, as well as enjoying direct influence at Board level through elected supporter directors. I personally believe that fans’ involvement in the running of the club in this way is crucial to the ongoing revival of the club’s fortunes.

One thing I have learnt over many years as both a fan and a club chairman is
that without the support, goodwill and co-operation of the club’s fan base, no amount of money or effort will produce success on the field or stability off it.

It is my intention to continue to work closely with the Trust in developing both the football club and the ground redevelopment plan, which in the end will provide the long term financial security and on-field success we all seek.

The support shown by fans this season for Paul Sturrock and the team under
extremely difficult circumstances has been fantastic, and we are lucky to
have such a highly skilled and successful manager in post; should we achieve
our aims, I want to provide as much support to him and his team as I can in
every way.

Our efforts at the moment are focused on establishing a dialogue with the club’s current owners in order to find a suitable way forward to allow for further investment and progress, your support and encouragement is, as always, appreciated and welcomed.

With warm regards,

Bill Power - This is Swindon

-
From Today's Times - Gary Jacob: Window watch

"...West Ham watched Lee Cook, the Queens Park Rangers left winger, play against Luton Town in the FA Cup third-round replay on Tuesday. Everton are also interested in Cook, whom QPR value at about £4 million.

Tottenham Hotspur have offered an initial £500,000 fee, rising to a possible £2 million, for Ray Jones, the QPR forward. The Times

-
Sporting Life -GALLEN KEEN TO REPAY HOLLOWAY
Plymouth new-boy Kevin Gallen wants to repay the faith shown in him by Argyle boss Ian Holloway.
Former QPR manager Holloway returned to Loftus Road to swoop for Gallen on loan until the end of the season.
After opening his account in the 3-2 win over Coventry, Gallen said: "This is twice now that Ollie has come and got me when things haven't been going well for me.
"The first time was at QPR, he took me back there and I went and played some of my best football.
"Obviously Plymouth aren't in the same position but Ollie will help me. I have a lot of trust in him and I will try and repay that to him." Sporting Life

Plymouth Herald -GALLEN: I FEEL AT HOME
New striker Kevin Gallen has admitted he already feels at home at Plymouth Argyle after his loan move from Queens Park Rangers.Gallen, 31, made his home debut in the Pilgrims' 3-2 victory over Coventry City in the Championship on Monday.
And he set them on the way to that win by scoring the opening goal in the 18th minute.
Gallen signed on loan from QPR until the end of the season on January 11 and then started the 3-1 away win against Norwich City two days later.
He said: "I have to say, the lads have been brilliant to me. I feel very welcome and that's a credit to the club and the players.
"The team spirit is tremendous compared to where I have come from. Everyone is pulling together."
Argyle's defeat of Coventry moved them up to 11th place in the Championship, only four points outside the play-off positions.
Gallen said: "It was pleasing to get a goal on my home debut. I think that's the fourth time it has happened to me in my career.
"The conditions were tough and the pitch was very heavy but we deserved to win, no doubt about that.
"We have got some big games coming up - West Brom and Wolves both away - so we will see what happens."
Gallen knows it is imperative Argyle win most of their remaining home games if they are to stand any chance of challenging for a top six spot at the end of the season.
"It's a long journey for a lot of teams coming down here and not many of them relish it," he said.
Gallen had started only nine Championship matches for QPR this season before his move to Argyle, which saw him reunited with his former Rangers' boss Ian Holloway.
Gallen started his second spell for QPR in 2001 when he was signed by Holloway from Barnsley.
"It's twice now Ollie has got me when things haven't been going well for me," he said.
"First time, I think we were good for each other. QPR were having a bad run when I went back there and I wasn't playing my best football, but I helped him and he helped me.
"Hopefully, it will be the same again, although Plymouth aren't in the same situation as QPR were.
"Ollie will help me. I have got a lot of trust in him and I will try to repay that."
Gallen admitted a place in the play-offs was a 'possibility' but insisted: "It's all right talking about it, but three points every game is what matters.
"Six points from two games is a great start for me personally with a new club. I just hope it goes well."
Gallen is one of five signings made by Holloway during the transfer window, and that has strengthened the squad considerably.
He said: "It's not about how much you pay, it's what you get for your money.
"There are a lot of inflated prices about, but Ollie has picked up some good players relatively cheaply."
Gallen said: "There is some good competition and it keeps everyone on their toes.
"Whoever is starting knows they have got to play well because there are people on the sidelines ready to come in."
Gallen was ineligible for Argyle's two FA Cup ties against Peterborough United but he can play against Barnet in the fourth round at Underhill on Saturday. The Herald

[And this story - even if it doesn't pan out exemplifies how QPR missed out re Leacock]Mirror - MOYES LIKES LOOK OF LEACOCK
DERBY defender Dean Leacock is a transfer target for Everton.
Goodison boss David Moyes has had the former Fulham centreback watched a number of times and received rave reviews. The 22-year-old has been a mainstay of a defence that has conceded just 28 league goals this season and helped the Rams go top of the Championship. County paid £375,000 for him in August Mirror

DERBY Response re Leacock - Manager

DERBY's BOLDER UPDATE

DERBY OFFICIAL SITE BOLDER TALKING TO HULL
Hull City have now been given permission to talk to Rams midfielder Adam Bolder about the possibility of a permanent move back to Humberside.
Yesterday dcfc.co.uk contradicted media reports that Bolder's transfer to QPR has been agreed - in fact the player had only been given permission to speak to the London club. Those talks took place on Wednesday.

Now Phil Brown's Hull City, which had originally been interested only in taking Adam on loan - a move turned down by the player - have been given permission to open formal talks as well. Derby

Derby Offical Site STATEMENT RE ADAM BOLDER
The Rams have set the record straight on Adam Bolder's transfer talks and Billy Davies' latest targets James McEveley and Tyrone Mears.
Media reports that Bolder's transfer to QPR has been agreed were this afternoon rubbished by managing director Mike Horton, who also confirmed that he had "opened a dialogue" with the chairman at Blackburn Rovers and West Ham regarding the availability of McEveley and Mears.
"It is true that following a call from QPR's manager John Gregory we have given permission to Adam Bolder to talk with QPR about personal terms," Horton told www.dcfc.co.uk.
"That is happening today.
"We are mindful of the service Adam has given to Derby County and felt that supporting him at this time was important.
"However, no agreement has been reached between the two clubs on a transfer fee."
Horton also confirmed that although the player's former club Hull City - managed by Phil Brown - had made an enquiry, it was only on the basis of taking Adam on loan.
"The player has made it clear he does not want to consider a loan deal at this stage in his career," said Horton, "but we would of course be delighted if Hull came back to us with a transfer offer.
"It is no coincidence, I'm sure, that two of Adam's former managers have come in for him, because they know his character."...
Derby

BBC -Derby's Bolder set for QPR talks
Derby County have given out-of-favour midfielder Adam Bolder permission to speak to QPR about a possible move to Loftus Road.
Rams managing director Mike Horton told BBC Radio Derby that the two clubs have already agreed a fee for the player.
The 26-year-old joined Derby from Hull City nearly seven years ago.
Championship strugglers Hull are also interested in re-signing their former player but have not yet tabled an acceptable offer. BBC

Derbyshire Evening Telegraph - BOLDER SET FOR TALKS WITH QPR
Adam Bolder is set for talks with Queens Park Rangers after Derby County gave the London club permission to talk to the midfielder.
Hull City, Bolder's former club, were interested in the 26-year-old but were reluctant to pay a fee. They have made no official approach for the player, who has 18 months left on his contract. A move to Loftus Road would reunite Bolder with former Rams manager John Gregory. Telegraph

-
Western Morning News -REPAYING THE FAITH

Kevin Gallen has admitted he is ready to repay the faith shown in him by Plymouth Argyle manager Ian Holloway by helping fire the Pilgrims into play-off contention this season.

The 31-year-old striker, who has joined Argyle on loan until the end of the season from Coca-Cola Championship rivals Queen's Park Rangers, netted his maiden goal for the Greens in Monday night's 3-2 home win over Coventry City, a result which has left the Devon outfit just four points off the play-off spots.

Gallen's 18th-minute strike against managerless City ensured it was a dream start to his fledgling career at Home Park, but the experienced frontman insists he is keen to build on what has been an encouraging start to his stay with Argyle.

"It was very pleasing to score on my home debut," said Gallen after the final whistle. "I think every club I've played for, I've always scored in my second game."

Sure enough, Gallen's memory is as sound as his finishing. Having had a goal chalked off on his Rangers debut against Manchester United on the opening day of the 1994/95 season, his wait to open his account lasted just a few days as he netted in a home game against Sheffield Wednesday at Loftus Road.

From there, Gallen has continued to produce at whatever club he has played for. For Huddersfield, Barnsley and again at QPR, the former England Under-21 international has always netted for his employers inside two games.

It was therefore fitting that Gallen should continue his footballing trend in Devon on Monday evening. He added: "It was very tough conditions out there and the pitch was very heavy. However, I felt we deserved to win the game.

"We have got six points in two games, so it's been a great start for me at the club. I just hope it continues to go as well. Certainly the play-offs are a possibility, there is no doubt about that, but it's alright talking about, it's the three points that really matter."

With an FA Cup fourth round trip to Barnet to come this Saturday, then successive away-days at West Brom and Wolves, Gallen knows the next fortnight is a crucial period for the Pilgrims.

"We've got some tough games coming away from home, especially West Brom. They are as good as anyone in the division, especially attacking wise," said Gallen.

"We'll have to see what happens in those games, but at the same time continue to pick up points at home."

Indeed, having experienced the long trek down to the Westcountry as a visiting player in the past, Gallen admitted it was different to experience Home Park as an Argyle player.

"It was good to be on the other side of things," he conceded. "It's a long journey for a lot of teams coming down here and it's one that teams don't relish. It definitely gives you an upper hand and you have to make the most of it."

Gallen also admits he has settled well to life in the Westcountry and working again under the guidance of Holloway, who brought him back to QPR for a second spell in November 2001.

"This is twice now that Ollie has come and got me when things have not been going well for me," added the Hammersmith-born forward. "The first time we were together was at QPR, who were having a bad run at the time. He took me back there and I went and played some of my best football.

"We sort of helped each other out, I helped him and he helped me, so hopefully it will be the same again. Obviously Plymouth weren't in the same situation as when I went back to QPR, but I know Ollie will help me. I have a lot of trust in him and I will try and repay that to him."

Monday's opening goal was certainly a step in the right direction for Gallen, who is one of a number of players battling it out for a starting spot in Holloway's match-day squad.

His arrival, plus the capture of Kiwi Rory Fallon from Swansea City and fellow loanee Scott Sinclair from Chelsea, has helped swell Holloway's options up front. However, Gallen insists he's ready to battle for a starting spot.

"I think we've got a mix of everything," he said. "It's good to have competition for places as it keeps everyone on their toes. It means whoever is starting knows they have to play well because there are people on the sidelines waiting to come in. Hopefully, scoring a goal tonight, might help me keep my place for Saturday."

One man delighted with the contribution put in by Gallen so far is Holloway, who added: "He's a good player, he's a good fellow, and he's getting fitter. He's got a great brain, and he can play absolutely anywhere. In conditions like those on Monday night, you've got to know what you're doing, and I thought he did."

Home comforts, like his link-up with Holloway is something Gallen is glad to have back in his life - and is a far cry from the surroundings he has left behind in West London.

"The lads have been magnificent and the team spirit down here is tremendous compared to where I've just come from, where it was almost non-existent," added Gallen, who has netted over 100 league goals in his career. "Everyone is pulling together and I have to say it's a credit to the club and the players." Western Morning News

-
Western Morning News -REPAYING THE FAITH

Kevin Gallen has admitted he is ready to repay the faith shown in him by Plymouth Argyle manager Ian Holloway by helping fire the Pilgrims into play-off contention this season.

The 31-year-old striker, who has joined Argyle on loan until the end of the season from Coca-Cola Championship rivals Queen's Park Rangers, netted his maiden goal for the Greens in Monday night's 3-2 home win over Coventry City, a result which has left the Devon outfit just four points off the play-off spots.

Gallen's 18th-minute strike against managerless City ensured it was a dream start to his fledgling career at Home Park, but the experienced frontman insists he is keen to build on what has been an encouraging start to his stay with Argyle.

"It was very pleasing to score on my home debut," said Gallen after the final whistle. "I think every club I've played for, I've always scored in my second game."

Sure enough, Gallen's memory is as sound as his finishing. Having had a goal chalked off on his Rangers debut against Manchester United on the opening day of the 1994/95 season, his wait to open his account lasted just a few days as he netted in a home game against Sheffield Wednesday at Loftus Road.

From there, Gallen has continued to produce at whatever club he has played for. For Huddersfield, Barnsley and again at QPR, the former England Under-21 international has always netted for his employers inside two games.

It was therefore fitting that Gallen should continue his footballing trend in Devon on Monday evening. He added: "It was very tough conditions out there and the pitch was very heavy. However, I felt we deserved to win the game.

"We have got six points in two games, so it's been a great start for me at the club. I just hope it continues to go as well. Certainly the play-offs are a possibility, there is no doubt about that, but it's alright talking about, it's the three points that really matter."

With an FA Cup fourth round trip to Barnet to come this Saturday, then successive away-days at West Brom and Wolves, Gallen knows the next fortnight is a crucial period for the Pilgrims.

"We've got some tough games coming away from home, especially West Brom. They are as good as anyone in the division, especially attacking wise," said Gallen.

"We'll have to see what happens in those games, but at the same time continue to pick up points at home."

Indeed, having experienced the long trek down to the Westcountry as a visiting player in the past, Gallen admitted it was different to experience Home Park as an Argyle player.

"It was good to be on the other side of things," he conceded. "It's a long journey for a lot of teams coming down here and it's one that teams don't relish. It definitely gives you an upper hand and you have to make the most of it."

Gallen also admits he has settled well to life in the Westcountry and working again under the guidance of Holloway, who brought him back to QPR for a second spell in November 2001.

"This is twice now that Ollie has come and got me when things have not been going well for me," added the Hammersmith-born forward. "The first time we were together was at QPR, who were having a bad run at the time. He took me back there and I went and played some of my best football.

"We sort of helped each other out, I helped him and he helped me, so hopefully it will be the same again. Obviously Plymouth weren't in the same situation as when I went back to QPR, but I know Ollie will help me. I have a lot of trust in him and I will try and repay that to him."

Monday's opening goal was certainly a step in the right direction for Gallen, who is one of a number of players battling it out for a starting spot in Holloway's match-day squad.

His arrival, plus the capture of Kiwi Rory Fallon from Swansea City and fellow loanee Scott Sinclair from Chelsea, has helped swell Holloway's options up front. However, Gallen insists he's ready to battle for a starting spot.

"I think we've got a mix of everything," he said. "It's good to have competition for places as it keeps everyone on their toes. It means whoever is starting knows they have to play well because there are people on the sidelines waiting to come in. Hopefully, scoring a goal tonight, might help me keep my place for Saturday."

One man delighted with the contribution put in by Gallen so far is Holloway, who added: "He's a good player, he's a good fellow, and he's getting fitter. He's got a great brain, and he can play absolutely anywhere. In conditions like those on Monday night, you've got to know what you're doing, and I thought he did."

Home comforts, like his link-up with Holloway is something Gallen is glad to have back in his life - and is a far cry from the surroundings he has left behind in West London.

"The lads have been magnificent and the team spirit down here is tremendous compared to where I've just come from, where it was almost non-existent," added Gallen, who has netted over 100 league goals in his career. "Everyone is pulling together and I have to say it's a credit to the club and the players." Western Morning News

-
Just more great news from Loftus Road (even as there were rumours before the injury of Bircham being sold. Now with his contract up in the summer - and no new one supposedly having being offered as of yet, it's conceivable that Bircham has played his last game for QPR.

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Birch Blow
Rangers have been dealt a significant blow today (Wednesday) with the news that Marc Bircham is unlikely to play again this season.
The R's fans favourite limped out of the home defeat to Southampton last weekend with a hamstring problem and gaffer John Gregory today confirmed the midfielder will need surgery on his lower back.
The operation is likely to keep him sidelined for up to six months.
"It would appear the operation is a long term one,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I'd be very surprised if he played again this season.''
Bircham's injury, coupled with Stefan Bailey's imminent three match suspension, leaves Gregory with a selection headache in midfield ahead of the all-important trip to Oakwell - home of fellow strugglers Barnsley - on Tuesday evening. QPR

-
The former QPR (and Luton and Fulham) forward Tony Thorpe has joined Grimsby from Stevenage. Thorpe left 18 months ago, joining first Swindon and then Colchester before joining Stevage last July.

BBC - Mariners complete Thorpe capture
Grimsby have secured the signing of striker Tony Thorpe from Stevenage.
Thorpe, 32, has agreed a deal until the end of the season after impressing Mariners boss Alan Buckley during a spell training with the club.
The former Fulham and Luton Town forward previously spent a month on loan at Blundell Park earlier this season before Buckley's apointment.
Grimsby have permanently signed defender Simon Grand, 22, on an 18-month deal following a loan spell. BBC

July 2006: BBC -Stevenage sign Thorpe Stevenage Borough have signed experienced striker Tony Thorpe and Cambridge City winger Craig Dobson on two-year contracts. Thorpe joins after being released by Championship newcomers Colchester. The 32-year-old has commanded transfer fees of close to £2 million during a career which has included spells with Luton Town and Bristol City . BBC

-
Brazilian coach Carlos Dunga this week announced his Brazilian squad for the February Friendly against Portugal at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium. Team
It's six months ago, that the announcement was made (while QPR was on their Italian tour) that QPR Director and major investor, Dunga had been appointed Brazil's new coach. This necessitated Dunga's resignation from the QPR board. It was reported that his investments would remain.
Over the next couple of days after his appointment was made, QPR issued a couple of statements.

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - CARLOS DUNGA
New Brazil boss Carlos Dunga has tendered his resignation as non-executive director of the R's. Dunga - who joined QPR in September 2004 - was named as Brazil's new boss on Monday evening....Speaking from the Club's first team training camp in Italy, R's Chairman Gianni Paladini said: "Dunga has resigned with immediate effect.'' Paladini continued: "I'd like to wish him all the best and thank him for everything he has done for Queens Park Rangers Football Club.'' Dunga will continue to be a QPR shareholder for the time being. QPR

BBC - Brazil appoint Dunga as new coach
Dunga was skipper of Brazil's 1994 world championsFormer captain Dunga has been named as the new coach of Brazil.
The skipper of Brazil's 1994 World Cup winners replaces Carlos Alberto Parreira, who quit after Brazil lost to France in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Ricardo Teixeira, president of Brazil's football federation (CBF), said: "The choice of Dunga will fully satisfy the desires of Brazilian fans."
Dunga, who is on the board of directors at QPR, has no previous coaching experience in the game.
But the 42-year-old said: "I want to bring the same determination I had as a player.
"Motivation and will to win are fundamental for anyone who wants to wear the shirt of the Brazilian national team."
His first game will be a friendly with Norway on 16 August in Oslo.
Brazil are not due to play any competitive games until next year's Copa America in Venezuela.
As well as leading Brazil to victory in 1994, Dunga also played in the 1990 and 1998 World Cups. He made 116 appearances for Brazil and also won the Confederations Cup in 1997 and the Copa America in 1989 and 1997.
Former national team coaches Wanderley Luxemburgo and Luiz Felipe Scolari had been linked with the job, along with Paulo Autuori, who took Sao Paulo to the Copa Libertadores and World Club Championship last year BBC

After missing QPR targets, Dunga has switched tribes
Evening Standard (London), Jul 26, 2006 by WAYNE VEYSEY
FROM director of Queens Park Rangers to manager of Brazil.
That is some quantum leap for Carlos Dunga, the midfield footsoldier who lifted the 1994 World Cup and has now been trusted with guiding Brazil to the top of the tree in South Africa in 2010.

It is an extraordinary show of faith from the five-times winners, given that Dunga has no managerial experience and has turned down dozens of offers to move into coaching since retiring seven years ago.

A knock-on effect of the 42-year-old's appointment is that he has resigned as a non-executive director at QPR - even though he was not required to do so under FIFA rules.

Rangers say Dunga will continue to be a shareholder "for the time being" but it seems only a matter of the i's being dotted and t's being crossed before the final whistle is blown on one of English football's most bizarre relationships.

The Brazilian icon became involved with QPR 22 months ago when he emerged as the figurehead for two mysterious Monaco-based consortia, Barnaby and Wanlock, who had invested Pounds 1.7million for a 30 per cent stake in the club. But what exactly has he contributed to the Super Hoops?
Advertisement

Still instantly recognisable with the buzz-cut hairstyle that he paraded as one of football's most reliable midfield enforcers, Dunga was greeted with enthusiasm by supporters when he first arrived at Shepherds Bush.

He explained he had been persuaded to come on board by his friends at Barnaby, who included QPR kingpin Antonio Caliendo, a former football agent, and looked forward to being an ambassador for the club, promoting their name across the globe and using his South American contacts to alert them of any top young talent. In an interview with Standard Sport, Dunga displayed a deft touch in public relations by naming all the Loftus Road heroes of the 1970s, 80s and early 90s.

Some were sceptical of his involvement but others appreciated the muchneeded glitz and glamour he brought to Loftus Road, qualities which had been absent in the post-administration era.

There were fears that Dunga had been recruited to unseat manager Ian Holloway but the multilingual Brazilian stressed he had no ambitions in that field, ironic as that now appears.

"I've got no intention of being a football manager," he explained. "I get phone calls every week from clubs asking me to be their manager. In Brazil, I've been asked three or four time this season to manage Flamengo."

However, Dunga was to have little time for QPR in a hectic schedule that centred on his work as an ambassador for the Brazilian national team and consultant to one of his former clubs, Jubilo Iwata in Japan.

He went to only a handful of Rangers games in two years and failed to bring in any South American talent, blaming work permit restrictions on the players.

When quizzed by one supporter at last year's AGM what he actually brought to the Loftus Road plate, Dunga was evasive before chairman Gianni Paladini leapt to his defence, claiming: "He brought in money to save this club, that's what he has helped with."

The former Fiorentina and Stuttgart star was one of five men said to have invested equal sums of around Pounds 500,000 in QPR, a shareholding that now stands at 49 per cent.

Yet it would appear not to be a match made in heaven for Dunga, who cynics suggest may have been recruited by the Monaco consortia as a frontman to appease supporters dubious of investment from unknown foreigners.

Apart from the cash and the publicity, it seems his legacy to Rangers will prove to be the role he played in ousting Bill Power and Mark Devlin, the former chairman and chief executive, from the board last summer.

This dramatic coup ultimately paved the way for Paladini and Caliendo, now a director, to assume full control at the cash- strapped club.

Dunga had not attended any of the previous six board meetings before he flew into London to use his casting vote to axe Devlin and Power. Maybe it was that kind of ruthlessness which so impressed the powerbrokers at the Brazil Football Federation.
Standard

Thursday, July 27, 2006 - QPR Holding Chairman, Antonio Caliendo Statement re QPR Post-Dunga-
In the wake of widespread and further inaccurate reporting, Chairman of QPR Holdings Ltd, Antonio Caliendo, would like to issue the following statement:
"Despite Carlos Dunga tendering his resignation as a non-executive director on Tuesday, he will continue to support the Club financially.
"The Board's objective remains the same as it always has been - to get QPR back on a sound financial footing and in time, a return to the Premiership.
"I want to reassure the shareholders and supporters that we are doing everything possible to achieve that goal.
"We have invested wisely in the squad this summer and I believe we are in a fantastic position to challenge in the top half of the Championship.
"Last season was a very difficult time for the Board. Since September, we've put in over £4million to ensure the Club's finances are in a stable position to build for the future.
"As a Board, we aim to keep our promise of not selling our best players. Obviously there are certain clauses in players' contracts which means we have to allow them to speak to other Clubs, but our aim is the Premiership and to achieve this we need to keep all our best players.
"The Dan Shittu situation is a perfect example. The bottom line is that we want to keep Danny at the Club. He's a fantastic professional and a tremendous player, but if we receive a £3million bid then he has the freedom to talk to whoever comes in for him.
"We love Queens Park Rangers and we are doing everything possible to safeguard the prestige of this wonderful Club.
"Together, there is only one voice - We Are QPR.'' QPR

Post Dunga Departure Story:
BBC -Power challenged to buy back QPR
Gianni Paladini has challenged the man he ousted as QPR chairman to come up with a bid to buy back the club.
Bill Power, a lifelong R's fan, has invested in Swindon Town since leaving Loftus Road after losing a bitter struggle for control last year.

But Paladini has hinted that ex-agent Antonio Caliendo, the London club's current main investor, could quit.

"I keep hearing people didn't want Bill to go and think he should come back. This is their chance," said Paladini.

"Let him or anyone else who thinks they can do a better job come forward and let's hear what they have to say."

After a series of behind-the-scenes problems, Power was forced out when former Brazil captain Carlos Dunga attended an all-important board meeting and voted with Paladini to remove him.

Power had sought to gain a controlling interest in the club but Dunga's unexpected appearance tipped the balance against him.
We will listen to anyone that wants to make an offer
Gianni Paladini

Paladini and Caliendo seized control and chief executive Mark Devlin was then sacked.

Dunga had previously not attended any board meetings having become a director as part of the Caliendo-led Monaco-based group that bought a stake in 2005 and now effectively own the club.

Dunga stood down as a director this week after landing the job of Brazil coach.

And Paladini has suggested that Caliendo and another board member, Italian businessman Franco Zanotti, may also now quit.

But Paladini insists they expect to recoup the money they have put into the club and has previously said it would take an offer of over £8m for them to relinquish control.
Any would-be buyer would also then have to tackle Rangers' sizeable debts.
"If Caliendo and Zanotti pull out it would make it difficult for me to carry on because I don't have that kind of money," Paladini admitted.
"If Antonio doesn't want to carry on I don't know what will happen. We will talk on Tuesday and discuss the way forward."
But he added: "We will listen to anyone that wants to make an offer but it will not come cheap, that's for sure.
"Bill Power got 6.5p-a-share when he sold his stake and the same would have to apply here.BBC

-
[An interesting look back at QPR's transfer signings in the past 18 months. The possible role played by Chairman Paladini in any of these transfers is not noted.]

Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Why Gregory must get this right
JOHN Gregory has one week left to pull off a transfer deal that could tip the scales of Championship survival in QPR's favour.
The January transfer window slams shut a week today and, with Finnish defender Sampsa Timoska the only new arrival so far, Gregory knows his actions over the coming days could have tremendous repercussions for the club's future.
Whether or not the Rangers boss succeeds in capturing the men he wants, supporters must be praying the outcome of this transfer window is better than the previous three.
Former manager Ian Holloway was fiercely opposed to the concept of the window from the start - and it could hardly be said that his dealings in the summer of 2005 or January 2006 proved beneficial to the club.
Holloway's successor, Gary Waddock, also left QPR with a sorry legacy - four of his signings from last summer are either on their way out or already gone.
So, has the transfer window been a total disaster or have there been a few comforting glimpses of the rainbow through heavy clouds? The Times takes a look back...

SUMMER 2005 (Holloway)

BUOYED by a top-half finish the previous season, Holloway sought to fill out his squad with a total of nine new signings, including three in midfield.

One of those was former Rangers hero Richard Langley, rejoining from Cardiff but, although he shone in patches, a lack of consistency, along with financial problems at QPR, saw him offloaded to Luton nine months later.

Goalkeeper Simon Royce, who finally joined on a permanent basis from Charlton, proved a sound acquisition, while the experienced Steve Lomas (West Ham) and Danish striker Marc Nygaard (Brescia) have shown their capabilities, injury permitting.

Left-back Mauro Milanese (Ancona) flourished later under Waddock, but is now deemed surplus to requirements, while former Chesterfield captain Ian Evatt - the only cash signing Rangers made at £150,000 - was transfer-listed after six months and has since joined Blackpool on a free.

The remaining three - Tommy Doherty (Bristol City), Stefan Moore (Aston Villa) and Nigerian full-back Ugo Ukah - also fell out of favour very quickly and, apart from Moore, have moved on.

JANUARY 2006 (Holloway)

ONLY two short-term - and short-lived - signings were made during the window as Holloway's reign at Loftus Road neared its end.

Polish international full-back Marcin Kus (Polonia Warsaw) made just three appearances in a Rangers shirt, while Danish striker Sammy Youssouf (Maritimo) failed to score in six outings.

Both were released at the end of the season, while Waddock, installed as caretaker boss, also cut short the loan spells of his predecessor's last two signings, Wolves pair Leon Clarke and Keith Lowe, after just one game.

SUMMER 2006 (Waddock)

THE sale of star defender Danny Shittu to Watford afforded Waddock some funds to spend and he invested £500,000 - the biggest fee paid out by Rangers in eight years - on Southampton striker Dexter Blackstock.

With eight goals so far in a QPR shirt, Blackstock has fitted in well at Loftus Road, but Jamaican centre-back Damion Stewart (Harbour View) is probably the only other Waddock signing who can make that claim.

Fellow defender Zesh Rehman, who cost Rangers £250,000 from Fulham, has only returned to the side in recent weeks, while Australian midfielder Nick Ward (Perth Glory) is now on his way out after failing to impress the new manager.

Nigerian midfielder Egutu Oliseh (La Louviere) and Polish forward Adam Czerkas (Odra Wodislaw) have been released after a handful of first-team games each.

Armel Tchakounte, the Cameroonian midfielder who spent last season with Carshalton Athletic, will be following suit without ever playing for QPR's senior side.

"It's not stock I need, it's quality," Gregory admitted recently. He has just a week left to unearth some Kilburn Times

Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times Cup calamity will cost Rangers
QPR have missed out on an estimated £300,000 windfall after crashing out of the FA Cup to a feeble Luton side in Tuesday's replay....
Instead, Mike Newell's team will host Rovers this Saturday and pick up a estimated £200,000 for a match that will be screened live on BBC TV, in addition to FA prize money and a healthy share of the gate receipts....
"It's a big blow to the club because it's a lot of money we've lost," said QPR manager John Gregory. "I was annoyed we weren't at least 4-0 up at half-time - and we should have won about 7-0.
Kilburn Times

-
The Guardian -
Luton strike lucky after 20-man brawl as Bailey and ref bang heads - David Ornstein at Kenilworth Road
Luton's progress to the last 32 of the Cup was soured by a 20-man brawl in which the QPR midfielder Stefan Bailey, sent off for a two-footed lunge on Ahmet Brkovic, appeared to head-butt the referee Mike Jones. As pandemonium ensued, the Cheshire official was seen clutching his face and the incident is certain to be investigated further by the Football Association.
Any punishment will compound QPR's woes, the defeat denying them a lucrative fourth-round tie at home to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday and a £150,000 bounty for the television coverage, a sum already earmarked by the Loftus Road board for new signings.
That's a big blow to me personally and the club," said QPR's manager John Gregory, who defended Bailey over the bizarre incident with the referee.
"It certainly wouldn't have been intentional," he said. Remarkably, the former Aston Villa manager also backed his player over the horrific two-footed challenge that earned Bailey a red card, describing it as "a great tackle". Brkovic was last night in hospital for x-rays on a suspected broken ankle.

The 74th-minute melee turned this third-round replay on its head and, within six minutes, Luton took a scarcely deserved lead that proved decisive. QPR, in Gregory's words, "should have been 4-0 up at half time and 7-0 by the end". Exaggeration aside, this should have been the visitors' night; instead they were left to rue a catalogue of missed chances.

Chief culprit for Rangers was Marc Nygaard. The Danish striker spurned three opportunities in the first half - twice with his head and once when he failed to connect with a Dexter Blackstock cross. In the second period he was equally wasteful, skimming the crossbar and shooting into the side netting before being replaced.

The departure of both Carlos Edwards and Rowan Vine earlier this month, allied to the knee ligament damage suffered by Warren Feeney last Saturday, has left Luton devoid of attacking options in recent weeks but QPR's profligacy was an open invitation to take advantage.

On 80 minutes the substitute Dean Morgan - on for the injured Brkovic - produced a drive as wayward as any other Luton strike on the night, but the ball cannoned off Zesh Rehmanand beyond a stranded Simon Royce to keep Luton's dreams of Wembley alive.

"I'm a big believer in fate, particularly when it comes to the FA Cup," said the manager Mike Newell, a Blackburn player from 1991-96. "Maybe we were just meant to play Blackburn on Saturday. I know a lot of people at the club and it will be nice because it was where I spent the most successful part of my career."

A victory on Saturday and Luton Town will be his latest success story. Guardian

INDEPENDENT
Luton Town 1 Queen's Park Rangers 0: Rehman slip sends Luton through after Bailey dismissal
By Conrad Leach
Published: 24 January 2007
Bald facts will show that a Zesh Rehman own goal won this FA Cup third-round replay for Luton but the real reasons were Queen's Park Rangers' own chronic finishing and a moment of madness by Stefan Bailey.

Rehman, a centre-half playing at right-back, stuck out a leg and made contact to divert the ball past the wrong-footed Simon Royce 10 minutes from time.

But the crucial incident came five minutes earlier, which set in motion the events that led to the winning strike. Bailey went for a loose ball but Ahmet Brkovic got there first and Bailey's raised two feet went through the Croat, who was carried off.

On seeing the red card Bailey appeared to brush the referee's face, which could land him in further trouble. Brkovic's replacement was Dean Morgan and it was his volley that led to the only goal.

This win set up the Hatters' manager Mike Newell for a fourth-round tie against his old club Blackburn Rovers at Kenilworth Road. "It was meant to be, to play Blackburn. It was where I spent the best and most successful part of my career," he said.

Both teams came into this match separated by one point and near the foot of the Championship. Luton are ahead by a fraction in League terms, but QPR had the better chances here and greater share of possession.

The hosts had won only twice in their previous 18 games and have recently sold two of their best players, Rowan Vine and Carlos Edwards. They have gained £4.5m but their line-up was weaker as a result. Their strikers, David Bell and Adam Boyd, did not strike fear into their guests.

This defeat extended the visitors' poor record in the FA Cup, as they have not won a game in it since 2001. Marc Nygaard was the culprit in front of goal, missing with his head before Bailey's dismissal put John Gregory's side on the back foot.

Luton Town (4-4-2): Brill; Foley, Davis, Coyne, Perrett; Robinson, Brkovic (Morgan, 77), Langley, Emanuel; Bell, Boyd. Substitutes not used: Barrett (gk), O'Leary, Keane, Stevens.
Queen's Park Rangers (4-4-2): Royce; Rehman, Mancienne, Stewart, Milanese; Smith (Ainsworth, 84), Bailey, Lomas, Cook; Blackstock, Nygaard (R Jones, 71). Substitutes not used: Cole (gk), Kanyuka, Furlong.
Referee: M Jones (Cheshire). INDEPENDENT

TELEGRAPH
Luck for Newell at last
By Trevor Haylett
Last Updated: 12:55am GMT 24/01/2007

Match details





Luton Town (0) 1 Queens Park Rangers (0) 0

Having lost their best players to the transfer market or the treatment table while sliding down the Championship to the accompaniment of supporter unrest, Luton were badly in need of the good fortune that saw them through to a fourth-round tie at home to Blackburn on Saturday.

They owed their passage, which gives manager Mike Newell a reunion with his former club, to a Zesh Rehman own-goal with 11 minutes left. It came shortly after Rangers had been reduced to 10 men following Stefan Bailey's dismissal for a jump tackle.

advertisement

How much do you want to borrow? (£)
Repayment period years
Do you have a less then perfect credit history or have you been turned down for a loan? Yes
No
Are you a mortgage payer? yes
No



The QPR midfielder, born and bred in Luton, could find himself in extra trouble with the FA because he appeared to make contact with referee Mike Jones' face as he moved towards him after being shown the red card. With players milling around, however, it was difficult to see if Bailey had been pushed inadvertently or was guilty of an aggressive gesture. Meanwhile Ahmet Brkovic, the recipient of the two-footed challenge, was taken to hospital amid fears he may have fractured an ankle.

"The tackle looked OK to me, he challenged for the football," said QPR manager John Gregory. About the follow-up incident, he said: "I wouldn't waste time on it, it's a trivial matter. It certainly wouldn't have been intentional."

The 74th-minute flashpoint changed the complexion of this rearranged replay which had been pointing Rangers' way as they made good use of Lee Cook's skills and driving runs.

They could not take advantage, however, while Luton immediately made their numerical superiority count. Dean Morgan replaced Brkovic and within two minutes dispatched a shot with power. It was nevertheless heading away from goal but cannoned off Rehman's shins and flew past Simon Royce's left hand.

Newell said it was meant to be; a happy outcome after a turbulent period in which key players Rowan Vine and Carlos Edwards had been sold. His opposite number was less content. "I'm devastated; we should have been 4-0 up at half-time," said Gregory.

After Luton's David Bell had led the initial assault, Rangers gradually got to grips with the game. Marc Nygaard failed to put away a header before the break and just before had stood in amazement as Dean Brill pulled off a stunning double save, denying first Jimmy Smith and then Dexter Blackstock. Nygaard then scraped the woodwork at the start of the second half with his cross. Telegraph

Mirror - Ann Gripper - ZESH SLIP HANDS IT TO LUTON
LUTON were gifted a fourth round home tie with Premiership side Blackburn last night as QPR self-destructed at Kenilworth Road.
Stefan Bailey was the villain of the piece, the midfielder receiving a straight red card from referee Mike Jones for scything down Ahmet Brkovic after 74 minutes, and it was Brkovic's replacement Dean Morgan who fired in the shot that Zesh Rehman turned into his own net 10 minutes from time.

Those six minutes of madness ended Rangers' hopes of winning an FA Cup tie for the first time since 2001, while Bailey's rash challenge ended in a mass of pushing and shoving in which Bailey also seemed to catch referee Jones in the throng of players.

Having a man advantage gave Luton the confidence and belief to shake off their awful form and earn a first win in seven games, but it was Rangers who had shown more quality going forward, with Jimmy Smith a big threat on the left.


The visitors put Luton under pressure early on, Marc Nygaard just inches away from connecting with Dexter Blackstock's 27th minute left-wing cross, and third-choice Luton keeper Dean Brill was in inspired form to deny Smith and Blackstock in quick succession. Bell found the net for Luton after 37 minutes, only to see it ruled out for offside.

Hatters boss Mike Newell admitted: "QPR had the better of it tonight but we certainly had plenty of it at Loftus Road and it's swings and roundabouts.

"We're through and if it was meant to be it was meant to be. You don't always get what you deserve and I'm a big believer in fate, especially in the FA Cup."

Rangers boss John Gregory admitted he was devastated to lose out on Saturday's money-spinning tie with Blackburn. He said: "That's an awful lot of money that we've blown. We choked in front of goal." Mirror

The Sun - Rehman Own Goal
LUTON boss Mike Newell is relishing a televised FA fourth-round meeting with his old club Blackburn after disposing of 10-man QPR.

Zeshan Rehman’s own goal 11 minutes from time was enough to send the Hatters through after QPR midfielder Stefan Bailey was sent off for a wild lunge on Ahmet Brkovic.

Rangers had looked in control of this third-round replay until Bailey’s 74th-minute moment of madness, which sparked a 20-man brawl.

The tackle caused Brkovic to be carried off the field and the Croat’s replacement, Dean Morgan, hit the 80th-minute shot that was flying wide until it deflected in off Rehman for the winner.

Newell said: “They probably had the better of it but it’s the FA Cup and it’s not about performances it’s about results.

“It’s nice to get through and it’s nice to be facing Blackburn because that’s where I spent the main part of my career and the most successful part of my career.”

Bailey’s red card was followed by further controversy as the player appeared to catch ref Mike Jones with his head after being ordered off.

But Rangers boss John Gregory said: “It certainly would not have been intentional if he had — but that’s a minor issue and it looked a great tackle to me.”

Bailey was also defended by his old Luton team-mate Richard Langley.

He said: “Stefan’s an honest lad. I told the ref to go easy on him but he’d already made his mind up.” The Sun






See Also: John Gregory's Comments & QPR & Luton Official Reports

-
QPR Official Site -JG Speaks - I'M DEVASTATED
John Gregory failed to hide his disappointment, as ten-man Rangers bowed out of the FA Cup at the third round stage yet again.
Gregory had just seen his side dominate Luton Town from start to finish, only to squander the hatful of chances that fell their way.
The R's profligacy came back to haunt them ten minutes from time, when - after Stefan Bailey saw red - Zesh Rehman made a hash of his attempted clearance and the ball trickled past Simon Royce for the only goal of the game.
"At half-time I was annoyed we weren't at least 4-0 up,'' said Gregory.
"We totally controlled the football match - chances were going begging all over the place.
"We choked in front of goal tonight and we're out of the Cup as a result.''
Gregory also gave his opinion on the sending off, commenting: "I only saw the back of the incident. Stefan is a whole-hearted footballer and if he's commited a bad foul then he deserves to go, but I'll never stop him tackling like that because it's a big part of his game.''
Gregory added: "There was a hint of offside in the build-up to the goal but after that it was a comedy of errors.
"Zesh took a swing at it and it ended up in our own net. I'm devastated.''
QPR

Sporting Life NEWELL RELISHES ROVERS RETURN
By Andy Sims, PA Sport

Luton boss Mike Newell felt fate played a role in setting up a meeting with his former club Blackburn in the FA Cup fourth round after his side accounted for QPR 1-0 at Kenilworth Road.

The Hatters were denied by a controversial last-gasp equaliser at Loftus Road in the original tie and, after last week's replay was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch, they were second best for long periods against Rangers.

But visiting midfielder Stefan Bailey's sending-off 15 minutes from time for a reckless challenge on Ahmet Brkovic - which saw the Hatters man stretchered off - not only sparked a 20-man melee but also Luton into life.

Substitute Dean Morgan's cross-shot was turned in by the unfortunate Zesh Rehman in the 80th minute to set up an emotional - if slightly daunting - televised encounter with Rovers on Saturday.

"They had a few chances and they probably had the better of it, but it's all about getting through in the cup," said former Blackburn striker Newell.

"We were through at Loftus Road until a handball at Loftus Road went against us so maybe tonight was our night.

"You don't always get what you deserve in the cup but maybe we were meant to get Blackburn. It's nice to get a tie against your old club and I had five of my best years there.

"I just hope we've got enough players left because the way they've been playing away lately it could be embarrassing."

Brkovic will have an X-ray on his ankle in the morning with Newell fearing another addition to an already lengthy injury list.

"It looked like it was two-footed and they are the most dangerous," he added. "He's hurt and he will go for an X-ray."

QPR boss John Gregory claimed he did not clearly see the challenge, but added: "It looked all right to me."

He was also keen to play down a bizarre incident following the red card when Bailey appeared to catch referee Michael Jones in the face as he protested the decision.

"It certainly wouldn't have been intentional," he added.

"I'm devastated we're out. We should have been 4-0 up at half-time and won 7-0.

"We missed chance after chance and we choked. It was almost like a script out of 'Dream Team'. You couldn't make it up and now we're out of the cup.

"It's a big blow to the club because it's a lot of money we've lost."
Sporting Life

QPR Official Site
Rangers suffered the worst of times at Kenilworth Road when a sending off and an own goal saw them exit the FA Cup.
Stefan Bailey's dismissal and Zesh Rehman's own goal sent Rangers crashing out of the FA Cup - despite 90 minutes of dominance from the visitors.
The first half started quietly, but Rangers had more than their fair share of chances to go ahead before the break.
Marc Nygaard and Dexter Blackstock each proved profligate, while Simon Royce was a mere spectator at the other end.
After the break, Rangers continued to press, but there was to be no repeat of the replay of 2001 when the R's went through to the fourth round after a two match battle with the Hatters.
Rehman's own goal with 11 minutes remaining cannot take all of the blame, for Rangers had more than their fair share of chances to take the lead prior to that.
Bailey's dismissal for a two footed lunge on Ahmet Brkovic was the start of the misery and the 90 minutes ended with Rangers departing from the FA Cup in the third round once again.
John Gregory was able to call upon Lee Cook after his one match suspension and Gareth Ainsworth was deemed fit enough to be given a place on the bench.

With Sampsa Timoska unable to play in the third round of the Cup, Mauro Milanese returned to the starting line up.

He may have only had a place on the bench, but Ainsworth began the proceedings by delivering a rousing "Come on!" to each and every one of the Rangers players.

And then finally, FINALLY, the replay kicked off.

The opening ten minutes failed to inspire as neither team mustered any real effort in or around the goal area. David Bell was the first to test the keepers when his effort from just outside the area flew wide of the far post.

Hoping that the next ten minutes may bring an incident of note proved to be a fruitless task. And when the journalist next to you asks: "Have you written anything yet?" you know that it's not the best sign of a riveting opening.

Cook tried to warm the cockles of the travelling Rangers fans when his free kick took the form of a stunning delivery, but Marc Nygaard's header looped over Dean Brill's crossbar. At the other end, Bell once again failed to trouble Royce when he splayed the ball wide.

Rangers improved as the half wore on however and when Cook fed Blackstock down the left flank, his piercing centre narrowly evaded the on-rushing Nygaard as the ball zipped across the face of goal.

On the half hour mark, Nygaard set the ball up perfectly for a central Smith and the young loanee smashed the ball down the centre of the goal, only to see Brill equal to his efforts. Blackstock was ready to capitalise on the keeper's spill, but Brill lived up to his name when he pulled off a stunning double save to deny the front man.

Ten minutes before the break, Bell had the ball in the back of the net, but found himself thwarted by the linesman's flag.

Rangers should have found themselves ahead seven minutes before half time, but somehow Nygaard failed to convert Milanese's cross from four yards out.

As it was, the break came without the deadlock having been broken.

The second half was already looking to be more lively when with only a minute gone, Nygaard's cross come shot grazed the cross bar and skipped to safety.

On the hour mark, Damion Stewart went ever closer for Rangers when he leapt to reach Smith's corner, but failed to direct it on the right side of the netting.

Rangers continued to test the Luton defence and were creeping ever closer to breaking the deadlock when Cook jinked inside and slipped the ball through for Nygaard, who blasted into the side netting when he had looked certain to score.

Moments after Ray Jones' introduction at the expense of Nygaard, Rangers were reduced to ten men following some ugly scenes.

Bailey's two footed challenge on Brkovic left the Luton man on a stretcher and Rangers a man down. Jones immediately took up the role in midfield leaving Blackstock to plough a lone furrow up front.

Asif to rub salt in to wound, Dean Morgan's volley was hacked into his own net by Zesh Rehman ten minutes from time - leaving the R's with it all to do.

There was only one thing for it and that was the introduction of Ainsworth with eight minutes to go.

But even his introduction couldn't muster extra-time for Rangers and John Gregory's men will now have a weekend without a competitive fixture before concentrating all of their energies on their Championship showdown with Barnsley on Tuesday evening.

Luton Town: Brill, Foley, Davis, Coyne, Perrett, Robinson, Emanuel, Langley, Brkovic (Morgan 76), Boyd, Bell.

Subs: O'Leary, Keane, Stevens, Barrett.

Scorers: Rehman OG, 79

Bookings: Coyne 74, Morgan 90

QPR: Royce, Milanese, Rehman, Lomas, Cook, Bailey, Stewart, Nygaard (Jones 71), Blackstock, Smith (Ainsworth 83), Mancienne.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Furlong.
Red Cards: Bailey 72
Referee: M Jones
Attendance: 7,494 (1,492)QPR

Luton Official Site
Luton secured an FA Cup Fourth Round meeting with 1995 Premiership Champions Blackburn Rovers thanks to a bizarre own goal from Zeshan Rehman deep in the second half.

The QPR defender was simply guilty of standing in the wrong place at the wrong time when Dean Morgan's volley cannoned off his leg and past the outstretched arms of Rangers goalkeeper Simon Royce.

It was a miserable evening for the visitors who had Stefan Bailey sent off for a rash challenge on Ahmet Brkovic on 77 minutes and were guilty of missing several opportunities.

However, Luton's slice of good fortune means Hatters boss Mike Newell will go up against the team he helped win the Premiership title all them years ago

Luton were dealt a major blow before kick off as Marlon Beresford, who was expected to replace Dean Kiely in the Hatters goal, was ruled out with a back injury.

That gave Dean Brill his second Luton start of the season after the young goalkeeper was recalled back from his seven day loan spell with Gillingham.

Better news for the Hatters concerned Kevin Foley, who made his first start of 2007 having recovered from a heel injury while Ahmet Brkovic was recalled to the starting line up to operate from the right flank.

Brkovic's inclusion handed David Bell an unexpected opportunity in attack and he partnered Adam Boyd, who replaced the injured Warren Feeney. The other change from Saturday's shock 2-0 defeat to Barnsley saw Russell Perrett replace Leon Barnett, who was ruled out through injury.

QPR, who were defeated by Southampton at the weekend, made three changes to their side with Mauro Milanese, Stefan Bailey and Lee Cook all returning to John Gregory's team.

Both sides enjoyed a good spell of possession in the early stages of the game, but the first 15 minutes seemed non existent with a wayward Bell effort on 13 minutes the only real opportunity created by either side.

It took an 26 minutes for the first notable opportunity to be created. It was a chance that eventually gave Luton fans something to shout about as Steve Robinson's through ball released Bell surging through the middle, but the midfielder was unable to connect cleanly with a right footed shot that just missed the target.

QPR responded with their own opportunity a minute later as Dexter Blackstock got beyond the Luton defence, but his left wing cross to the unmarked Marc Nygaard was just beyond the reach of the Rangers striker.

The game began to see some entertainment and Brill was called upon to make an impressive save on 31 minutes as he twice prevented the visitors from taking the lead.

As Luton struggled to clear their lines, Jimmy Smith fired a first time shot from the edge of the area which forced Brill into a low save. With the ball only parried, the young Luton goalkeeper displayed quick reactions to prevent Blackstock nipping in to score from the rebound.

Luton had the ball in the back of the net on 37 minutes, but Bell was deemed offside after his surging run and shot went through the legs of Rangers goalkeeper Simon Royce.

The Hatters were beginning to threaten, however the visitors should have broken the deadlock on 38 minutes but were guilty of missing a golden opportunity.

Milanese found space down the right flank and delivered a perfectly weighted cross that found the head of Nygaard, but the former Brescia striker couldn't find the target from six yards out and with the goal at his mercy.

AT HALF TIME: LUTON 0 V 0 QPR

Rangers almost made the perfect start to the second half but Nygaard failed to make the most of a good opportunity when on 48 minutes he latched onto Smith's pass down the right, but instead of dragging a cross back to his waiting team-mates, he managed to clip the top of Brill's crossbar from an acute angle.

Lewis Emanuel tried his luck with an ambitious 25 yard free kick that fizzled wide of the target as both teams tried to stamp their authority on the game in the early stages of the second half.

Although Luton were enjoying the majority of the second half possession, it was the visitors who looked more likely to score and on 62 minutes Damion Stewart almost found a way through but sent his close range header from Smith's corner inches wide.

Rangers continued to press forward and Nygaard was guilty of wasting another opportunity on 67 minutes when he collected Smith's through ball but could only hit a first time shot against the side netting from eight yards.

Luton were soon given the advantage as Rangers were reduced to ten men after Bailey was shown a straight red card following a two footed challenge on Brkovic. A mass brawl followed, but after order was restored, referee Michael Jones quickly issued the red card.

The challenge left Brkovic leaving the field on a stretcher as Newell threw on Morgan.

The man advantage soon made the difference as Luton took the lead on 79 minutes through bizarre circumstances. As Rangers struggled to clear the danger, Morgan sliced a volley from the edge of the area that took a wicked deflection off Rehman's leg and beyond the reach of Royce.

In a desperate bid to find an equaliser, Gareth Ainsworth was thrown into action and he almost made an immediate impact when he saw a long range effort blocked by the Hatters defence.

Luton had the chance to seal the game when Morgan raced through on goal, but the substitue wasted his opportunity, firing over the target from eight yards. Luton


PA Sports
Picture Bell is hounded by Mancienne.

Luton 1 QPR 0

E-mail this article E-mail Article Print this article Print-Friendly Subscribe to sportinglife RSS feed Subscribe to RSS Feed
Digg this story post this story to del.icio.us - social bookmarking site Post to del.icio.us

By Andy Sims, PA Sport

Tell us what you think about sportinglife.com!
Click here for full match stats

Stefan Bailey was sent off in shame and Zesh Rehman scored a calamitous own goal as QPR gifted Luton a lucrative televised FA Cup fourth-round clash with Blackburn.

Bailey saw a straight red card for a horrific lunge on Ahmet Brkovic - who had to be carried off on a stretcher - sparking an unseemly 20-man shoving match.

Referee Michael Jones was left holding his nose after the midfielder and Damion Stewart contested the decision, although any intent from the Rangers players appeared unlikely.

Rehman then turned the ball past his own keeper with 10 minutes remaining to hand Mike Newell a reunion with his former club on Saturday.

Both sides were forced to make changes for the rearranged replay, with Luton minus both their goalscorers from the original 2-2 draw at Loftus Road following Rowan Vine's move to Birmingham and an injury to Warren Feeney.

John Gregory, a cup finalist with Rangers in 1982, welcomed back highly-rated winger Lee Cook from suspension and recalled Marc Nygaard alongside Dexter Blackstock in attack.

After a scrappy opening Luton failed to deal with Jimmy Smith's corner but Stewart could not get the ball out from under his feet and the danger was cleared.

Nygaard then headed a Smith free-kick over the crossbar before Luton created their first decent chance, Adam Boyd's through ball catching QPR square but the onrushing David Bell's angled shot flying narrowly wide.

Rangers immediately hit back and Blackstock's cross just evaded Nygaard with the home defence suddenly looking like strangers.

Town keeper Dean Brill, just recalled from a loan spell at Gillingham, then kept the scores level with a superb double save, diving low to his right to parry Smith's 20-yard effort and recovering in time to deny Blackstock from the rebound.

Bell had the ball in the Rangers net shortly before the break but was clearly offside, while Blackstock wastefully nodded Mauro Milanese's cross wide.

Rangers began the second half with more purpose and Nygaard combined well with Smith down the right before grazing the crossbar with a shot from an impossible angle, although the pull-back to Cook looked to be the more profitable option.

Giant centre-half Stewart then met Smith's inswinging corner but thumped his powerful header inches wide with Brill motionless.

Nygaard missed a gilt-edged chance to open the scoring 20 minutes from time following another superb run from Cook.

The tricky winger glided jinked past a succession of defenders before his reverse pass put Nygaard through, but the striker smashed the ball into the side-netting from eight yards out.

The game exploded in the 74th minute when Bailey went in two-footed to contest a 50-50 ball with Brkovic.

After an ugly melee was dispersed, Bailey was dismissed while Brkovic departed in some discomfort on a stretcher.

And six minutes later Rehman inadvertently settled the affair when he turned substitute Dean Morgan's cross-shot past the helpless Royce.

Morgan should have grabbed a second when he burst clear during five minutes of stoppage time, but he blasted his shot over the top.

Teams

Luton Brill, Foley, Davis, Coyne, Perrett, Bell, Robinson,Langley, Emanuel, Boyd, Brkovic (Morgan 76).

Subs Not Used: Barrett, O'Leary, Keane, Stevens.

Booked: Coyne, Morgan.

Goals: Rehman 80 og.

QPR Royce, Rehman, Mancienne, Stewart, Milanese,Smith (Ainsworth 84), Bailey, Lomas, Cook, Blackstock,Nygaard (Ray Jones 72).

Subs Not Used: Cole, Kanyuka, Furlong.

Sent Off: Bailey (74).

Att: 7,494

Ref: M Jones (Mansfield). Sporting Life

This hurts!
Luton Official Site - 23.01.2007 NEWS BLACKBURN TICKET INFO
Following our FA Cup Third Round replay win over QPR on Tuesday night, we would like to remind supporters of the ticket selling arrangements for our FA Cup Fourth Round tie with Blackburn. Luton

-
QPR Official Site - CORRECTION
The Club has had it brought to its attention that Ceefax and Teletext are reporting a game between QPR and China on February 8.
We would like to confirm that no such fixture is taking place at Loftus Road and we have already asked both parties to remove the story. QPR

Pre-QPR Statement Press Reports of China Olympics Team UK Visit

International Herald Tribune/AP
China's Olympic soccer team to play three friendlies in England
The Associated Press Monday, January 22, 2007
China's Olympic soccer team will play three friendly matches next month in England, part of the club's two-week training stint with London club Chelsea.
The Chinese Football Association confirmed Tuesday that its Olympic team will face Chelsea's reserve team on Feb. 5, followed by matches against Queens Park Rangers on Feb. 8 and Brentford on Feb. 16.
Queens Park plays in the League Championship, the level just below the Premier League. Brentford plays in League One, two rungs below the Premier League.
China, coached by Ratomir Dujkovic, is training in France and is expected to arrive on London on Feb. 1. Tribune

Chinese People Daily Dates confirmed for China Olympic soccer team's England tour
The Chinese Olympic team's two-week England tour schedule has been confirmed with Ratomir Dujkovic's men expected to arrive in London on February 1, according to the Chinese Football Association.
China will go up against the Chelsea reserves on Feb. 5 and two more friendlies await the team on February 8 (League Championship side Queen's Park Rangers) and 14th (League One side Brentford) before the squad returns home on February 16.
Queen's Park Rangers is standing at 21st at the 24-team League Championship with 30 points, one position above the relegation zone. Brentford is at the bottom of League One with 22 points.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is expected to work with the Chinese team during their training sessions at Cobham.
Dujkovic's team is currently in France, playing a series of friendlies. Source: Xinhua

Reuters Jan 18 - Visa problems jeopardise China's Chelsea visit
BEIJING, Jan 18 (Reuters) - The Chinese Olympic team's two-week stay at Chelsea's training ground next month has been jeopardised by visa problems, local media reported on Thursday. The Chinese under-21 squad are in France playing a series of friendlies and scheduled to arrive at the English champions' state of the art centre in Cobham, Surrey, on Feb. 1. But a failure to apply in time for their visas from the British consulate at Marseilles may force them to reconsider their London trip and stay on in France, sohu.com reported. 'The Chinese embassy in France has contacted the British embassy in Paris about the issue,' an official surnamed Chen at the Chinese consulate in Marseille told the Web site. 'But their visa applications will probably not be accepted because of the procedural problems...' The British embassy in Paris had agreed to try to help out by checking with their colleagues in Beijing, but it might still take too long, the official added. Serbian team manager Ratomir Dujkovic missed the first match of the French tour, a 0-0 draw with amateur club St O Cassis on Jan. 9, because of a problem with his visa. Chelsea's offer to host China's squad for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and hold seminars on technical, coaching and medical issues is part of the club's Asian marketing strategy.Your views on this story? Reuters

-
September 5, 2006
Barry Hayles, Ian Holloway & QPR -
-Plymouth Barry HaylesPlymouth Argyle striker Barry Hayles has made a great start to the new Championship season.The 34-year old front man has weighed in with three goals from five Championship games to help his new club to seventh position in the league.Hayles was signed by Argyle manager Ian Holloway just before the season started, paying League One side Millwall £100,000 and Holloway's judgement has been proved sound ...
.Holloway first gave Hayles his big break into league football back in 1997 when, as manager of Bristol Rovers, he signed Hayles from non-league Stevenage Borough for £250,000.Hayles was a relative late comer to professional football at the age of 25 but was eager to make up for lost time scoring 34 goals in 66 league games for the Pirates.Hayles form in front of goal did not go un-noticed and Fulham beat several clubs to secure the signature of Hayles for a £2m transfer fee.Hayles goal scoring form continued for his new club, helping Fulham to two promotions and securing a place in the Premiership.Hayles played for three seasons in the Premiership, including notching up some Uefa cup games and eight caps for national side Jamaica.Hayles then spent two months at Championship side Sheffield United following a free transfer before being transferred to Millwall for £25,000. Hayles stayed at Millwall for two seasons but could not stop the London side from being relegated from the Championship last season
.Holloway then came calling once again and Hayles looks to have revived his career at Plymouth.
Holloway also tried to sign Hayles whilst he was manager at Queens Park Rangers but the QPR chairman, Gianni Paladini, blocked that move. The controversial Paladini recently admitted he left his phone switched off for two days to prevent Holloway from talking to him about signing Hayles. Paladini felt that Hayles was too old and wanted Holloway to sign the more younger striker Dexter Blackstock at Southampton.
"...Paladini said: 'By the time Barry Hayles career is over, Blackstock will be in his prime.'Hayles is enjoying his time at Plymouth but admits it was a big decision to move to the south-west, he said: 'I did have a good long hard think about it, but the manager was not taking no for an answer.'The chance to work with Ollie again was something I was looking forward to. He seems to get the best out of me, allowing me the freedom to express myself.'Personally things have been going well at Plymouth and we have been playing well as a team. So I think I made the right choice in moving here.' .Fulham

December 2005 -Paladini Promises Holloway Funds for JanuaryBen Kosky/ Kilburn Times
Funds ready for Holloway
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini has promised funds to help Ian Holloway pep up his forward line when the transfer window opens in January.Rangers have looked short of firepower all season, despite having five senior strikers on their books and Holloway is eager to add another face in the new year.And Paladini, who took over as chairman in September, confirmed that the club are 'keeping tabs' on several possible targets, including a promising youngster in South America and another in Japan."It's up to Ollie who he wants and, provided it's the right player for this club and he fits into our wage structure, we will definitely try to bring him in," Paladini told the Times."As long as it's not silly money, there shouldn't be a problem. We've already brought in seven or eight players this year and if we need to get someone else, it would probably be a striker."Kevin Gallen is Rangers' top scorer this season with four goals, despite spending the majority of his time in midfield, while summer signing Marc Nygaard has banged in three in five starts.But Paul Furlong has struggled to reproduce the form that saw him voted Player of the Year last season, while Dean Sturridge has been wrestling with fitness problems ever since joining the club in March.Speculation has suggested that Holloway may make another move for Millwall striker Barry Hayles, a player he once managed at Bristol Rovers and attempted to bring to Loftus Road 18 months ago.Hayles has hit five goals - including one against QPR - for the troubled Lions this campaign, but turns 34 in the spring and might represent too much of a gamble...... Camden Times

-
MK Dons COMPLETE KNIGHT SIGNING
Good Evening
Tonight we have signed Leon Knight from Swansea City on an 18-month contract with a one-year option for an undisclosed fee. Leon has an eye for goal, he's quick and has experience and is a player I have had my eye on for a while.
I am looking forward to working with him because he is an interesting character, but there is no doubt in my mind we will have some good times together and he will do very well for this club.
Take Care - Martin MK Dons

SWANSEA STATEMENT - Knight completes move to MK Dons
Swansea City have completed the transfer of striker Leon Knight to MK Dons this morning for an undisclosed fee.Knight signed from Brighton in January 2006 for £125,000 on a two-and-a-half-year deal and actually scored a hat-trick on his debut against the MK Dons at the Liberty Stadium. He went on to score 19 goals in 35 appearances for the club before being put on the transfer list.Having recently returned from a loan spell at Barnsley, the striker agreed to join the League Two promotion hopefuls this afternoon.Knight has signed an 18-month contract with a one-year option.
Club statement"A lot has been said between Leon Knight and Swansea City over recent months, but now is the time for everyone to move on."Rather than look to blame any particular party in this event, we now need to draw a line under the whole affair and move on."Unfortunately, as in life, things don't always work out as planned and we wish Leon all the best at his new club."Swansea City Football Club will not be making any more comments regarding Leon Knight.''
MK Dons boss Martin Allen said: "Leon has an eye for goal, he's quick, experienced and is a player I have had my eye on for a while."I am looking forward to working with him because he is an interesting character, but there is no doubt in my mind we will have some good times together and he will do very well for this club." Swansea

[Three and half years ago, QPR were trying desperately to sign Leon Knight but were beaten by Brighton!

BBC - August 21 2003 - Brighton land Chelsea striker
Leon Knight has signed for BrightonBrighton have beaten Queens Park Rangers to the signing of Chelsea striker Leon Knight.
The 20-year-old, who has been on loan with the Seagulls, turned down Rangers after both Second Division clubs agreed a deal with Chelsea.
Knight had a loan spell with QPR in 2001 and Rangers' boss Ian Holloway tried to persuade him to return.
But Knight opted to stay at the Withdean Stadium, where he scored twice against QPR on Monday.
Holloway made his move for Knight after selling midfielder Richard Langley to Cardiff last week and had hoped to have him on board by the time his side faced Steve Coppell's men.
Knight was once tipped as a future replacement for Gianfranco Zola at Chelsea.
But he has been unable to establish himself in the first-team at Stamford Bridge.
As well as his spells with Rangers and Brighton, he has been loaned to Huddersfield and Sheffield Wednesday. BBC

Holloway keen to sign Knight
QPR have entered the race to sign Chelsea's highly-rated striker Leon Knight.
The diminutive 20-year-old forward is currently on loan with Brighton and ironically scored a brace as the Seagulls beat QPR 2-1 on Monday evening.
Brighton are also keen to sign Knight on a permanent basis but QPR boss Ian Holloway has confirmed that he has held talks with the player.
"We witnessed first hand what this player is capable of last night and he is just the type of player we need to boost our promotion chances," he told the club's official website.
"Talks have been underway since before the game and I have to say that I am very impressed with him as a young man as well as a footballer. He's a good listener, very mature and I would love to sign him." Knight

-
Plymouth Official Site - Holloway on GALLEN
KEVIN Gallen introduced himself to the Home Park faithful with the first goal and a superb all-round display in the 3-2 Championship win over Coventry City.
Argyle manager Ian Holloway was delighted with the contribution of his new signing in difficult weather conditions.
He said: "He is a good player and a good fella.
"He is getting fitter, has a great brain and can play absolutely anywhere, and I thought it showed in those conditions where you have got to know what you are doing." Plymouth

PLYMOUTH OFFICIAL Site - THE WINNING HABIT
ARGYLE picked up their third successive win in the space of nine days in tonight's 3-2 Championship win over Coventry City at Home Park.
Goals from home debutant Kevin Gallen, magical Magyar Akos Buzsaky and captain Barry Hayles gave the Pilgrims a deserved win on a cold and blustery night in Plymouth.
Manager Ian Holloway was delighted with the performance of his team, especially with Gallen being joined in the new faces department by Hungarian winger Peter Halmosi and second-half substitutes Scott Sinclair and Rory Fallon.
"Winning is a very good habit and from the first minute I felt we would win tonight," said Holloway....
Holloway feels safe in the knowledge that he will be given time to improve his players because of the solid backing given to him by Argyle chairman Paul Stapleton.
It is in stark contrast to tonight's visitors, who sacked manager Micky Adams last week after less than two years in charge of the Sky Blues.
Holloway said: "I know I will be given time unlike some clubs because my chairman is rock solid.
"He never puts on any pressure and a few other people should ring him and ask how he does it. I know will be given time to work with theses players, get the quality of my staff right, which I have done, and I will get the facilities right."
"These players know that we will work with them and I am expecting them to get better and expecting to see more of the wonderful goals that we are starting to see."
Plymouth

-
The Italy pre-season tour:Of course the pre-season friendlies didn't quite work out as intended; there were some divisions between the players who were brought to Italy and those that were not. (Many had been told by Garry Waddock that they were not wanted.) And new suits were supposed to be made for members of the team; players were measured for the suits. But strangely they apparently never arrived.
While on QPR Director and investor, Dunga was appointed manager of Brazil.
When the team returned, the supposed "non-story" of the closed training ground elicited a strong response from Chairman Paladini.

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - ITALIAN JOB Sorrento FC
As the clock ticks down on the R's pre-season preparations, qpr.co.uk brings you the final details of the Club's trip to Italy.
Gary Waddock's side face Serie C outfit Sorrento FC on Monday (6.30pm local time), before a trip to San Antonio Abate FC on Friday (6.30pm local time).
Please note, the San Antonio fixture replaces the scheduled game against Cavese FC.
The Italian Club's pitch is currently unplayable and as a result, the R's have been forced to switch their opposition at the eleventh hour. QPR

QPR OFFICIAL - GRIM RIPA
A first half hat-trick from Ripa sealed Rangers' fate as they fell 5-1 to Sorrento Calcio.The Italian's goals were too much for QPR, despite a cracker from Adam Czerkas in the first half.
No matter how hard the Rs tried in the second half, the Italians were much more at home and the visitors were unable to get a look in.
The plastic surface meant that many first team regulars were rested for the first game, but Rangers were still able to field a strong side against the Italian outfit.
Waddock was able to give his youngsters a run out with Jake Cole taking up a spot between the posts and Ray Jones lining up alongside Czerkas.The first job for the squad was to clap the travelling support along with the local fans that had turned up to see the Londoners.
Rangers must have still been adjusting to the one hour time difference, because no sooner had the game kicked off, Sorrento took the lead.
Cole seemed to have gathered Ripa's shot, but somehow the ball seemed to slide through his fingers and into the back of the net.
Cue party time for the Italian fans.
Donnelly though almost restored parity seconds from the kick off when his free kicked tested Ambra in the Sorrento goal.
The hundreds of QPR fans behind the goal were treated to some quick footwork from Nick Ward, many of whom were seeing him for the first time.
At one point the Australian steamed through the middle in support of Adam Czerkas, but the Polish striker needed no help at all as he unleashed one hell of a strike into the back of the net.
Despite the heat, Rangers refused to take their foot off the gas and Waddock's words of advice about taking the game easy seemed to have fallen on deaf ears.
Ward was showing what an engine he has and Ray Jones was proving to be a threat up front.
However, Ripa clearly felt that the Rangers back line were in fact playing the game at 50 per-cent when he completed his hat-trick in two minutes.
Cole found himself beaten twice in quick succession to certainly make this a case of the Grim Ripa wreaking havoc with the R's.
Ward then tried in vein to get QPR back in the game just before half time, but his 30 yard effort clattered against the post.
There was a whole new meaning of 'exhibition football' when Alan McDonald made a special appearance in the second half.
But the Rangers legend had his work cut out when three minutes into the second half, Rastelli brushed off the appeals for off side and slotted past Cole.
Waddock then gave some of his tired troops a rest with Czerkas and Ward being replaced by Cook and Rowlands.
Anyone would have thought that Rangers were struggling to make up the numbers when veteran 'striker' Tony Roberts came on in place of Fortune.
The introduction of the two midfielders however did seem to make a difference.
Cook went close to scoring an impressive solo goal, but the midfielder put his effort just wide of the near post after travelling a full 30 yards untouched.
It was soon 5-1 despite some excellent recovery work from Jake Cole who had twice denied Rastelli before he finally finished the job.
Rangers then had two chances to pull one back when Cook and then Donnelly both had fierce strike parried to safety by Ambra even though they had both looked certain to score.
McDonald then incensed the home fans with a rather 'over friendly' challenge on their star man - good to see some things never change!
A disappointing result, but a decent work out all the same.
Sorrento: Ambra, Ferrara, Pezzella, Marciano, Ferraro, Iorio, Ingenito, Ottobre, Ripa, Russo, Maiorano
Subs: Rastelli, Solimene
Rangers: Cole, Bailey, Armel, Fortune (Roberts), Howell, Ward (Rowlands), Baidoo, Pinto (McDonald), Donnelly, R Jones, Czerkas (Cook). Report


QPR OFFICIAL - PLASTIC NOT FANTASTIC
Gary Waddock admitted that the scoreline in Sorrento didn't worry him one bit - it's all about Burnley.The 5-1 drubbing is of little importance to Rangers' pre-season training schedule and Waddock has still got his sights firmly on the game at Turf Moor in just under two weeks.
Speaking after the game, the manager said: "Nobody wants to get beaten by a scoreline like that, but we've had to play on an artificial surface which we weren't due to play on.
"It was meant to be a grass surface, so we've had to change the team accordingly.
"I've got players in positions they aren't used to - Alan McDonald and Tony Roberts had to play in the end to make up the numbers.
"So although we got beat, there are reasons for that and this game wasn't taken too seriously at all.
"Sorrento won their league last year and it was an exhibition match and a celebration for them.
"The most important thing was that we didn't pick up any injuries and we didn't lose three points.
"I didn't want to play Cook or Rowlands, but one or two of the lads were feeling the heat a bit.
"We'll need every single player against Burnley, not a game against Sorrento.
"We don't play on this sort of surface during the year - the scoreline doesn't bother me at all."
QPR

DAY ONE - SCOTT DONNELLY
QPR's pre-season trip has begun and each day we'll be catching up with the latest happenings with our players' diary entries.
Today, a home sick Scott Donnelly told qpr.co.uk how his first day had been as Gary Waddock walked past three times, unable to get his door key to open his room.
Despite the fact that Monday was pencilled in as a rest day for the players - an hour long meeting this morning, followed by a pre-match meal left little time for any play.
A local tailor then came to measure the players for matching suits and then it was off to Sorrento.
Here's how Scott Donnelly has found the first day of his first trip abroad.
"I didn't mind the flight, it was a nice steady journey all the way - there were a couple of the lads who don't enjoy it as much but thankfully they got here in one piece!
"The hotel is unbelievable and the food is lovely. The people are really friendly as well, they just can't understand us!
"The pool looks nice, but it's been all work so far and none of us have had a chance to go in it yet.
"We had a meeting this morning to go over what we'd be doing throughout the week and what our schedule will be.
"We went through everything to do with pre-season so far. We were given the opportunity to go through things that we didn't like, but hardly anyone had any complaints.
"It's been spot on throughout and there wasn't very much negative feedback at all. In fact, the only complaints were that some of the lads wanted to do MORE training.
"Then we went through tonight's game against Sorrento and talked about how we're going to approach it.
"I'm rooming with Jake Cole, I get on really well with him and he's in the same boat as me.
"It was a massive thing for me that I got picked to come here and really was made up, this is my first trip away with QPR and it's great to be here and it's a great experience.
"I've never been to Italy before, but I'd definitely come back with my family or my girlfriend. I'd like to be able to order my food and drink on my own though without having to ask Mauro or Marc!
"I'm looking forward to the game tonight; I've never played a foreign team before so this will be a bit of a change for me." Official

-
QPR's recently-released Defender, Ian Evatt, now at Blackpool is in this week's Football League's Division One Team of the Week - Team

And Long-ago released, Barry Conlon (now at Mansfield) is in the Football League's Division Two Team of the Week - Team

And one of QPR's opponents in the Southampton team, Gareth Bale, is in Championship "Team of the Week" (which includes four players from Derby County) - Team

" Each week the Official Football League website will bring you the Teams of the Week. Produced by the Press Association, the Teams of the Week feature the eleven top performing players from each division from this weekend's matches. "

-
BBC - Bees sign ex-Blues striker Allen Barnet have signed striker Oliver Allen, the son of former Tottenham and England striker Clive Allen. The 20-year-old was a free agent having been released by Birmingham, where he was last season's top scorer in the reserve team with 10 goals in 12 games. "He is ready to fire and is someone who will add competition to the strike force," manager Paul Fairclough told the Barnet club website. Oliver is also the nephew of former Barnet manager Martin Allen. BBC

-
If QPR's Season had started 46 games ago, QPR would have been relegated.
Over those last 46 league games (3 under Ian Holloway; 22 under Garry Waddock; 21 under John Gregory - and all under the Chairmanship of Gianni Paladini) QPR managed to get 41 points.

(Just as in the 46 games previously, QPR would have been near to making the playoffs)

QPR's Last 46 Championship Games

IAN HOLLOWAY'S FINAL 3 GAMES
Luton 2-0 QPR
QPR 2-3 Leicester
Leeds 2-0 QPR

WADDOCK TAKE'S OVER
QPR 1-0 Millwall
C Palace 2-1 QPR
Sheff Utd 2-3 QPR
QPR 0-0 Wolves
Sheff Wed 1-1 QPR
QPR 1-1 Brighton
Cardiff 0-0 QPR
QPR 1-2 Stoke
QPR 1-2 Crewe
Burnley 1-0 QPR
QPR 1-1 Derby
Norwich 3-2 QPR
QPR 1-2 Watford
Reading 2-1 QPR

2006/07 SEASON

Burnley 2-0 QPR
QPR 2-2 Leeds
QPR 2-0 Southend
Preston 1-1 QPR
QPR 1-3 Ipswich
Plymouth 1-1 QPR
QPR 0-2 Birmingham
Colchester 2-1 QPR


JOHN GREGORY TAKES OVER
QPR 2-0 Hull City
Southampton 1-2 QPR
QPR 3-3 Norwich
QPR 1-2 Derby
Sheff Wed 3-2 QPR
QPR 1-1 Leicester
West Brom 3-3 QPR
QPR 4-2 C Palace
Luton 2-3 QPR
Cardiff 0-1 QPR
QPR 0-1 Coventry
QPR 1-2 Sunderland
C Palace 3-0 QPR
Stoke 1-0 QPR
QPR 0-1 Wolves
QPR 1-0 Barnsley
Birmingham 2-1 QPR
Norwich 1-0 QPR
QPR 1-0 Colchester

[Waddock Played 22: 3 Wins - 8 Draws- 11 losses
Gregory Played 21: 7 Wins - 3 Draws - 11 Losses
Holloway 3 0 Wins - 0 Draws - 0 Losses

In QPR's previous 46 Championship games (all under Ian Holloway) QPR got 58 points

-
Daily Mirror - Ann Gripper
GREGORY IN DANGER OF BECOMING A FALL GUY
JOHN GREGORY knows QPR are fighting for their Championship lives - and rates their battle for survival as his toughest football challenge.
Saturday's loss to Southampton left Rangers just a point off a relegation place, and they have now taken only six points from their last 11 games.
The Loftus Road boss said: "This is the most difficult situation I have been in. I was in a similar situation at Wycombe - we were bottom of the league when I joined and we spent from October to May trying to survive with no mo"We managed to escape on the penultimate Saturday of the season. That was a real buzz.
"But this would be an even bigger achievement because at Wycombe the only problem was the lack of quality on the pitch and the league position.
"Everything else was exceptionally well-run, although the budget was very limited.
"Here there are lots of problems. The playing staff is too big, the financial overheads have had to be reduced. But the players have been incredible.
"We are very motivated and determined but we are also naive.
"This lot will always give you hope, but I would like to add a bit more experience. Hopefully we will get that before the end of January." ...... Mirror

TELEGRAPH - Few clues offered by Burley in Bale riddle By Sam Green
George Burley wears the look of a man who knows something everybody else would like to know. Is he bluffing? By the end of the January transfer window, we will all know.
The Southampton manager seems utterly unfazed by the feverish speculation surrounding his precociously talented left-back, Gareth Bale. Manchester United are said to lead the chase for the 17-year-old. Last January Southampton played at Queens Park Rangers in what turned out to be Theo Walcott's last game for the club before his move to Arsenal and Burley is determined that a similar tale will not unfold this year.
"At some point Gareth will go, but he will still be here, no matter what, until the end of the season," said Burley after this controversial victory, adding weight to the theory that a deal has been done with United allowing Bale to remain at Southampton until the end of the season.
advertisement
Burley then went further. "No matter which division we're playing in, it would be better for Gareth to be at Southampton this season and next season."
While Burley glowed, John Gregory glowered. The QPR manager saw his side fall behind to a contentious late goal. A minute later, Rangers found the net in almost identical fashion. The effort was disallowed by referee Trevor Kettle.
"The referee got it blatantly wrong," said Gregory. "We're fighting for our lives in this division and decisions like that knock the stuffing out of you."
Southampton scored when goalkeeper Simon Royce spilt Bale's corner when pressurised by Bradley Wright-Phillips and Grzegorz Rasiak bundled home.
Moments later Damion Stewart put Kelvin Davis under similar pressure and Dexter Blackstock thought he had capitalised. Even Burley agreed that both incidents looked like infringements.
An excellent injury-time strike from Wright-Phillips confirmed a win that keeps Southampton in the promotion frame. Telegraph

THE SUN - By PAUL JIGGINS
GEORGE BURLEY has told Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger they can forget about signing Gareth Bale — until the summer of 2008 at the earliest.
Both Manchester United and Arsenal are hot on the trail of the highly-rated Southampton full-back.
Brilliant Bale, 17, impressed their watching scouts again with another super show.
But Saints boss Burley said: “I’ve told Gareth and his parents he needs to be here this season and next. That would be ideal for his development.
“You can’t beat playing regular first-team football for the development of a kid.
“Of course, at the bigger clubs it’s harder to get into the team. But, for the development of the player in this league and with a good club, I think it’s great for the boy to find his feet.
“We have to nurture him along without getting too strong with him.
“I’ve had this situation for a number of years with Kieron Dyer, Titus Bramble, Darren Bent, Darren Ambrose and Tom Huddlestone — it’s part and parcel of football.
“Gareth’s parents are smashing people and really down to earth. They enjoy coming to see him play on a regular basis and see his improvement.
“He was absolutely outstanding again for us here and it’s typical of the way he has progressed in the last month.
“The improvement is there to be seen. At the start of the season we left him out for a bit because he’s still maturing.
“But he’s worked hard on the training ground, he’s listened and learned and there aren’t many better — or more exciting — full-backs in the country.”
Beckham-like Bale’s set-pieces had Rangers jumping through hoops all afternoon.
His corner led to Grzegorz Rasiak stabbing in the opening goal nine minutes from time — despite QPR’s claims keeper Simon Royce had been fouled by Bradley Wright-Phillips.
Referee Trevor Kettle caused more controversy two minutes later when he ruled out Dexter Blackstock’s equaliser after Saints keeper Kelvin Davis dropped a long throw.
Then, in injury-time, Wright-Phillips raced on to David McGoldrick’s pass and put the ball past the advancing Royce.
While Southampton look good for the play-offs, QPR are just one point and one place above the drop zone.
Chelsea’s on-loan defender Michael Mancienne said: “It’s the same old story for us — we don’t seem to be getting any luck at the moment and our end product isn’t there.
“We’re playing well and defending well but we’re being punished for minor errors.
“The confidence is still there — somewhere — all we need is a win to get going again.” The Sun

-
Belfast Telegraph - Friday, January 19, 2007 By Stuart McKinley
Big Mac in Newry Frame
Former Northern Ireland captain Alan McDonald has emerged as a contender to take over the vacant manager's job at Newry City.
It is understood that the Newry board are keen to speak to McDonald about the possibility of joining the club after Roy Coyle's departure last week. Ironically, 12 months ago McDonald was in the frame to succeed Coyle at Glentoran.
McDonald recently returned to Northern Ireland after a spell on the coaching staff at his former club Queen's Park Rangers and is thought to be keen on a return to management.
Dermot Keely and former Cliftonville player Keith Alexander - who left Peterborough United earlier in the week - are also in the frame. Belfast Telegraph

UPDATE: BBC January 22: - Quinn linked with Newry vacancy
Coleraine boss Marty Quinn is being strongly linked with the managerial vacancy at Newry City. Quinn refused to comment on the intense speculation on Monday although it is understood that Newry are set to make an official approach to Coleraine.
The Belfastman was appointed by Coleraine in 2000 after a successful spell at Cliftonville.
Quinn has remained at Coleraine despite the club's financial problems in recent years but now could be set to depart.
Newry are seeking a new manager following Roy Coyle's decision to part company with the club earlier this month after four successive league defeats.
Since then, the club, guided by caretaker boss Ollie Ralph, have lost two more league games although they did beat Ballynure Old Boys in the Irish Cup sixth round.
Newry have dropped to 12th place in the table - five places behind the in-form Bannsiders who have claimed six successive league wins, although they were beaten last week in the Irish Cup by Lisburn Distillery. BBC

UPDATE II - January 23, 2007
BBC Quinn opts to stay at Coleraine
Marty Quinn took charge of Coleraine in 2000Coleraine boss Marty Quinn has turned down an offer to become new Newry City manager and has agreed a new three-year contract with the Bannsiders.
There had been intense speculation linking Quinn with the Newry post and the Belfast man did hold discussions with the Marshes outfit.
Pat McAllister was tipped to become Quinn's assistant at Newry but he has opted to stay at Donegal Celtic.
Dundalk manager John Gill is now being linked with the Newry job.
Quinn told BBC Sport that he had "never fully committed" to taking the Newry job despite reports that he had agreed to make the move.
"Probably, it was a reaction to us going out of the (Irish) Cup in midweek last," said Quinn.
"The Newry offer came up and I spoke to Newry and was very impressed with what they had to say with the contract and everything was fine.
"But having had good chat with several people, I'm totally focused on the job in hand at Coleraine and I'll be signing a three-year contract very shortly."
Quinn acknowledged that he had received a host of "texts and calls", imploring him to stay at the Bannsiders.
"That sort of swung things back to Coleraine, not that I had ever made my mind up. It had a big influence on my final decision."
Newry are seeking a new manager following Roy Coyle's decision to part company with the club earlier this month after four successive league defeats.
Since then, the club, guided by caretaker boss Ollie Ralph, have lost two more league games although they did beat Ballynure Old Boys in the Irish Cup sixth round.
Newry have dropped to 12th place in the table. BBC
Also Newry Town Football Club

-
Sunday Mirror - RASIAK HAS SAINTS ON THE MARCH - Pete Simm At Loftus Road
GRZEGORZ RASIAK and Bradley Wright-Phillips struck in the final nine minutes to clinch a crucial victory for Southampton and keep their drive for automatic promotion on track.
It looked as if George Burley's side would have to settle for their fifth draw in six games despite dominating at Loftus Road.
But Rasiak finally provided the breakthrough with his 17th goal of the season nine minutes from time.
Then Wright-Phillips confirmed the victory in injury time.
Much talk last week had surrounded Saints' teenage left-back Gareth Bale and a possible £8 million move to Manchester United.
And Bale showed why the Premiership leaders are so keen to sign him after only six minutes.
The 17-year-old swung in a dangerous free-kick which keeper Simon Royce failed to clear on two occasions.
The ball fell to Rasiak but he headed wide from eight yards out.
QPR midfielder Marc Bircham narrowly missed the target on 13 minutes but limped out of the action soon after and Saints took control with Mario Licka leading from midfield.
Royce did brilliantly to save from Licka after Bale set him up to let fly with a first-time left-foot volley.
Ex-Saints striker Dexter Blackstock should have done better nine minutes before the break but shot wide.
Bale created another opening four minutes after the restart when Darren Powell rose to meet his free-kick but directed his header wide.
Jermaine Wright performed heroics to prevent Ray Jones giving QPR an unlikely lead in the 68th minute.
Rasiak should have broken the deadlock when Royce fumbled Wright's low shot but he failed to control the ball.
But the Pole made amends with time running out as he bundled home from close range after another Bale corner caused confusion.
Substitute Wright-Phillips made the points safe a minute into injury time.
HOW THEY RATED
QPR
Royce 7' Rehman 6, Bircham 5 (Bailey 6), Lomas 6, Baidoo 5, Stewart 7, Timoska 6, Jones 6 (Nygaard 5), Blackstock 6, Smith 6, Mancienne 6.
MANAGER Gregory 6
SOUTHAMPTON
Davis 6' Pele 6, Lundekvam 6, Powell 7, Rasiak 6, Wright 7, Licka 7 (McGoldrick 5), Jones 6 (Wright- Phillips 6), Baird 6, BALE 8, Viafara 6.
MANAGER Burley 7
REFEREE T Kettle 7
MAN OF THE MATCH -GARETH BALE
Another great performance from the teenage full-back.
Mirror

- Photos from the Game - From Southampton Official Site

Earlier Reports and comments of QPR vs Southampton - Reports/Comments

-
There is - rightly - a lot of focus on this being the 40th anniversary of QPR's 1967 League Cup run culminating in the Wembley victory.

But this season is also the 25th Anniversary of QPR's 1981/1982 FA Cup Run which took them to Wembley (and back again for the replay). A QPR team whose midfield consisted of our last two Managers: John Gregory and Gary Waddock. Saw one youngester - Peter Hucker come into the team and emerge as the Cup Hero; another youngester, Warren Neil make a brief - crucial - appearance in the Third Round replay and also in the FA Cup Final Replay. Clive Allen who was "destined" to score just after his 21st Birthday (but was injured)... Things under Terry Venables looked so bright for the future.

Hucker
Fenwick Hazell Roeder Gillard
Gregory Waddock Currie Flanagan
Stainrod Allen
Micklewhite + Neil & Burke

3rd Round
(Jan 2)QPR 1-1 Middlesbro --
(Stainrod)

Replay: (Jan 18) Middlesbrough 2 QPR 3
(Stainrod 2)

4th Round:
(Jan 23) Blackpool 0 QPR 0
Replay (Jan 26)- QPR 5 Blackpool 1
(Allen 4, Stainrod)

5th Round:
(Feb 13)QPR 3 Grimsby 1
(Stainrod,Allen, Howe)

Quarter Final:
(March 6) QPR 1 Crystal Palace 0
Allen!

Semi Final:
(April 3) QPR 1 Arsenal 0
Allen!

FINAL
May 22, 1982: QPR 1 Spurs 1
(Fenwick)
Replay (May 27, 1982) Spurs 1 QPR 0

Complete FA CUP Games/Results in 1981/1982

-
One year ago...

QPR lost to Luton 0-2.
QPR's team:
QPR: Royce, Bignot (Taylor 83), Shittu, Rose, Ainsworth (Moore 79), Santos, Cook, Baidoo (Nygaard h/t), Furlong, Lomas, Langley
Subs not used: Milanese, Donnelly,
QPR Match Report - Official Site

Assessing Playoff Hopes:
Dave Bassett Assesses Who'll Make the Playoffs - "QPR aren't good enough"
Jan 21 2006 Ian Hunt, Western Mail
THE race for a Championship play-off spot remains wide open, Cardiff City being one of 11 clubs who entertain realistic hopes of claiming one of the four places on offer....a long list of chasing teams - from Leeds in third right down to Stoke in 13th - harbouring hopes ....Burnley, Norwich, QPR, Luton and Stoke in their wake cannot yet be discounted from the play-off equation....
Dave Bassett...., believes Cardiff are one of seven teams - Leeds, Watford, Palace, Preston, Wolves and Norwich being the others - who have a good chance of getting into the play-offs....
, ......The former Wimbledon manager, though, is unequivocal about the prospects of his most recent employers - and QPR - squeezing into the top six.
"Southampton have got no chance," he says...""QPR aren't good enough either....
Western Mail: Page 2: The Bluebirds and their Championship play-off rivals
QPR - January arrivals: Andy Taylor: Defender brought in on loan from Blackburn to beef up the back-line. The youngster, whose loan spell at Loftus Road could be extended, can play anywhere across the back four.
Marcin Kus: Polish international defender signed on a six-month loan from Polonia Warsaw.
Next six matches: Luton (a), Leicester (h), Leeds (a), Millwall (h), Crystal Palace (a), Stoke (h)
Play-off prospects: Currently five points adrift of the top six, Ian Holloway's side lack a prolific goalscorer and it is doubtful they have the strength in depth to make the play-offs. Western Press
There was continuing talk about Holloway comments about bungs with newspaper headlines such as from the Mirror "Bungs The Evidence - "Mirror Reveals....Holloway says offered 'Bung' for Gino Padula" Mirror-

The Telegraph re Holloway/Bungs - Telegraph

Independent - "Holloway 'offered £30,000 by agent'

FA Bungs Investigation Announced
FA Statement
BBC - BBC
Sporting Life

Benito Carbone to QPR Rumour - Sky Sport's "Benni eyes Rangers move

Mirror - D BRAT BENI COULD BE BACK TOO - Mirror

Happy birthday to Dougie Freedman - One player we definitely let "get away".
Given a free transfer by QPR to Barnet in July 1974 without having played a first team game for QPR. In his first Barnet season, started scoring prolifically. In total, with his various clubs, he's played something like 400 League games and scored 150 goals and a couple of Scottish caps ..From Barnet went to Crystal Palace...Wolves...Nottingham Forrest...back to Crystal Palace:
Not that many players released by QPR have done that well elsewhere. Freedman is clearly a major exception. Details

QPR Official Site - Marcus Bean Joins Blackpool
Marcus Bean has completed his move to Blackpool on a free transfer....
Although Marcus Bean's move is a free transfer there is a sell on clause so that the Superhoops will get a percentage of any future transfer fee. QPR

BLACKPOOL OFFICIAL
The Seasiders completed the signing of Queen's Park Rangers midfielder MARCUS BEAN late on Friday afternoon....
Bean has been at Loftus Road since the age of ten and has progressed through ranks to make his senior debut at the age of seventeen, but it will be one he will want to forget as he suffered the ignominy of being sent off in a game that saw four players receive the red card.
Bean's energetic style of play and ability to break up play saw the Hammersmith born man pick up QPR's Young Player of the Season last term, but the lack of first team action this season saw Marcus take up a loan spell at Swansea City where he made nine appearances. On his return to Loftus Road Bean played a part in six games, his last being in the R's 1-0 Boxing Day defeat at Brighton. Following discussions with Rangers manager Ian Holloway, Marcus decided to seek regular first team football elsewhere and jumped at the chance to join the Seasiders....Blackpool

-
QPR Played Southampton at Loftus Road & Lost 0-2 (HT 0-0)

UPDATE:
JOHN GREGORY COMMENTS - OFFICIAL SITE "VIDEO EVIDENCE"
John Gregory was left seething after studying the video evidence in the wake of the 2-0 defeat against Southampton.
After studying both the Southampton opening goal and the carbon copy Rangers effort that was disallowed, the R's gaffer came up with the following verdict: "Our goalkeeper got fouled by Bradley Wright-Phillips for their opener and at the other end their goalkeeper ran straight into Damion Stewart and got the decision.
"I'm absolutely astonished by both decisions.
"The referee has cost us one hundred per-cent tonight.''
Despite the 2-0 defeat, Gregory praised his sides endeavour, commenting: "I thought the lads did everything.
"We lacked a bit of quality, which isn't a surprise with those that were missing, but the desire and commitment was first class.
"We did enough over the 90 minutes to get a point, but yet again we've been let down by poor refereeing decisions.
"The result didn't reflect how well we competed over the course of the game.''QPR

SOUTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE - BURLEY'S REACTIONS
George Burley was delighted to see his Saints side finish so strongly as they ground out a vital victory at QPR.

Southampton had the better of an often scrappy game but as the home side tired, George Burley's men took full advantage to the delight of their 3,000 travelling fans.

Grzegorz Rasiak's 19th goal of the season put the visitors in front 10 minutes from time and substitute Bradley Wright-Phillips latched onto a David McGoldrick through-ball to make the points safe in stoppage time.

Saints though did get a lucky break as Rasiak's goal stood despite a possible foul on the keeper - while Dexter Blackstock had an almost identical goal ruled out four minutes later.

Burley said: "I thought both were fouls on the keeper to be honest. Sometimes you get them and sometimes you don't and we deserved that break after last week when we were denied a blatant penalty.

"You have to trust that luck evens itself out over the season. Nine times out of 10 the referee might have disallowed Greg's goal but we got the rub of the green.

"Their goal was a definite foul on Kelvin who was knocked as he went to gather the ball. But in any case we kept going well and deserved the win over the 90 minutes.

It is never easy playing QPR on a tight pitch and the first half was a bit scrappy. Then I moved Mario Licka wide and brought Jhon Viafara inside and we had a bit more bite in midfield.

"I brought on two substitutes to give us fresh legs and in the last 10 minutes the gamer opened up. David played a great ball for Bradley to finish well. He has a real eye for goal and showed a lot of composure.

"He and Kenwyne are both young but they have 15 goals between them now while Greg has 19 so we have good options up front.

"It was a relief to get the win especially after dropping points last week but we have to keep it going. No-one is going to give you anything in this league. You have to earn the right and it is still very tight." QPR

Updated League Table - Table

PA Sports - Match Report - Report

Starting Teams:
QPR: Royce, Rehman, Mancienne, Stewart, Timoska, Baidoo, Lomas, Bircham, Smith, Jones, Blackstock.
Subs: Cole, Bailey, Kanyuka, Furlong, Nygaard.

Southampton: Davis, Pele, Lundekvam, Powell, Rasiak, Wright, Licka, Jones, Baird, Bale, Viafara.
Subs: Bialkowski, Ostlund, Wright-Phillips, McGoldrick, Lallana.

QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Late goals from Grezgorz Rasiak and Bradley Wright-Phillips handed high-flying Southampton maximum points at Loftus Road.

Rasiak cashed in on a Simon Royce fumble to put the Saints in front with eight minutes remaining, before Wright-Phillips - a former Rangers target - set the seal on the visitors victory in stoppage time.

A two goal defeat was harsh on the R's, who were denied what appeared to be a perfectly good 'goal' when former Saint Dexter Blackstock saw his effort chalked out moments after Saints took the lead.

In a first half of few clear cut chances, Blackstock fired wide when faced one-on-one with Kevin Davis, while at the other end Mario Licka forced Royce into two smart saves.

Southampton improved after the break though and when Rasiak and Wright-Phillips continued their productive campaigns in front of goal, Rangers were left contemplating a seventh home defeat of the season.

R's gaffer John Gregory made three changes to the starting XI after the defeat at Hull last weekend.

Shabazz Baidoo, Zesh Rehman and home debutant Sampsa Timoska were all recalled, with Lee Cook (suspended), Marcus Bignot (injured) and Pat Kanyuka missing out.

Championship hot-shot Rasiak led the Saints line, while sought-after defender Gareth Bale lined up at left back.

After an even opening, Southampton squandered a golden opportunity to open the scoring on eight minutes.

Royce's failure to punch clear on two seperate occasions gifted Rasiak with a free header on goal, only for the ball to land a yard or so wide of the right hand post.

On a blustery afternoon in West London, Rangers were made to wait until the 13th minute to create their first opening of the contest.

Jimmy Smith's neatly cushioned chest pass fell into the path of Marc Bircham, who dragged his shot well wide from fully 25-yards.

Play soon switched to the other end, with Licka forcing Royce to dive at full stretch and tip round his 20-yard drive.

Licka was enjoying the freedom of the park and when good interplay involving Bale and Jermaine Wright ended with the ball falling at his feet 25-yards from goal, Royce again had to be at his agile best to parry the ball to safety.

It was a good height for the R's custodian, but credit to him, with the wind swirling round Loftus Road at a rate of knots.

Already minus the services of Cook, Martin Rowlands and Gareth Ainsworth, the R's were dealt another blow midway through the half when Bircham limped off, to be replaced by Stefan Bailey.

Blackstock was his usual lively self and after Steve Lomas and Timoska combined down the left flank, the former Saint wasted no time in pulling the trigger from 20-yards, only to drag his shot wide.

Blackstock should have fired Rangers in front eight minutes before the break.

Bailey's explosive run from the heart of the R's midfield saw him tee up the Rangers top-scorer, only for him to fluff his lines when faced one-on-one with Davis.

Kenwyne Jones fired straight at Royce from an acute angle moments later, yet despite the best efforts of both sides, it remained goalless at the break.

With the wind at their backs, Southampton made a positive start to the second half.

Bale's in-swinging free-kick from the right flank found Darren Powell, who having ghosted in at the back post, should have put the Saints in front.

Thankfully for the R's, his six-yard header finished the wrong side of the post, to the relief of the home faithful.

Rangers were living on their nerve and when Damion Stewart's defensive header fell at the feet of Wright 15-yards from goal in the 65th minute, his volley flew two yards over the bar, with Royce unsighted.

The R's were by no means overawed by their high-flying opponents though and when Smith's corner was only half cleared, Blackstock's impromptu over-head kick was hacked off the line.

The out-of-sorts Rasiak appeared to have left his shooting boots on the South Coast, firing wide from eight yards on 70 minutes, before Wright forced Royce to smother 60 seconds later. Rasiak was first to pounce on the follow-up, only to miss-control the ball at the vital stage, as it rolled away for a goal-kick.

All good strikers persevere though and when Bale's corner kick was fumbled by Royce underneath his own bar, the former Spurs striker pounced to bundle the ball over the line from little more than a yard.

Undeterred, Rangers were on the front foot almost immediately - only to be denied an equaliser by a questionable refereeing decision from Mr Kettle.

It was Royce's opposite number - the commanding Davis - who was at fault this time, dropping the ball in carbon copy style under his own crossbar. Blackstock applied the all-important touch to smash the ball home, but Mr Kettle was on the spot and immediately blew his whistle for a foul on the Saints custodian.

And as if to rub salt in the wound, substitute Bradley Wright-Phillips put the result beyond all doubt in stoppage time, firing past Royce from eight-yards to set the seal on another fruitful away day for George Burley's promotion-chasers.

QPR: Royce,Rehman, Mancienne, Stewart, Timoska, Baidoo, Lomas, Bircham (Bailey 19), Smith, Jones (Nygaard 73), Blackstock.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Furlong.
Southampton: Davis, Pele, Lundekvam, Powell, Rasiak, Wright, Licka (McGoldrick 73), Jones (Wright-Phillips 73), Baird, Bale, Viafara.
Subs: Bialkowski, Ostlund, Lallana.
Scorers: Rasiak 82, Wright-Phillips 90 (+1)
Referee: Mr T M Kettle
Attendance: 14, 686
QPR

SOUTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE - LIVE MATCH REPORT
George Burley made just one change restoring Jhon Viafara to the midfield and leaving David McGoldrick on the bench. Kenwyne Jones retained his place in attack with Bradley Wright-Phillips among the substitutes.

QPR had Lee Cook suspended and former Saints striker Dexter Blackstock led the line.

QPR: Royce, Rehman, Mancienne, Stewart, Timoska, Baidoo, Lomas, Bircham (Bailey 18), Smith, Blackstock, Jones (Nygaard 74). Subs: Kanyuka, Furlong, Cole (gk).

Saints: Davis, Baird, Lundekvam, Powell, Bale, Licka (McGoldrick 74), Wright, Pele, Viafara, Rasiak, Jones (Wright-Phillips 74). Subs: Ostlund, Lallana, Bialkowski.

Referee: Trevor Kettle (Berks) Attendance: 14,686

Wright lined up on the left of midfield with Mario Licka in the centre and Viafara on the right in a narrrow set-up on a tight pitch.

Saints defended the end where their 3,000 fans were packed, making a deafening noise to outsing the home crowd.

The visitors were first to threaten with Wright feeding the overlapping Bale whose cross just evaded Viafara at the far post.

Saints should have taken the lead on six minutes when Bale whipped in a free-kick from the left and Royce failed to get a clean punch. The ball looped up in the air and the keeper again flapped without making good contact and the ball dropped for Rasiak who headed inches wide of the left post with the goal seemingly at his mercy.

Bircham fired a low 25 yard drive well wide of the right post on 13 minutes and then Mancienne just managed to kick clear from Viafara in front of goal.

The strong swirling wind blew the ball out of the quadrant just as Bale took a right-wing corner and so he overhit it beyond Rasiak.

Royce just won a race for the ball with Viafara then Bale found Licka whose powerful low 25 yard-drive tipped behind by Royce at full-stretch to his right on on 17 minutes.

A minute later Rangers were forced to make a change sending onBailey for Bircham.

Saints were looking sharp and bright and Viafara played a good ball in to Rasiak who was closed down as he tried to shoot with Baird crying out for a lay-off.

Licka was breaking forward dangerously and found space through the inside left channel but his powerful half volley from the edge of the area was beaten away well by Royce to his right on 20 minutes.

The swirling wind was making life difficult for both teams and especially for Royce who again tried to punch and Pele had a long-range shot charged down.

Davis though soundly caught a high left-wing free-kick from Smith and then Blackstock dragged a low 20-yard shot wide as the home side began to get a foothold in the game.

The first clear chance for QPR came on 36 minutes when Bailey made a surging run through the centre and slipped the ball through to Blackstock. He took it first-time on the run but slotted the shot just past the right post from the edge of the area.

Ray Jones headed just over from a free-kick and then Kenwyne Jones turned strongly past Stewart and quickly rifled in a low shot from the right of goal but Royce saved at the second attempt.

Licka intercepted a loose pass in midfield and found right whose cross was knocked behind by Rehman but the wind carried Wright's left-wing corner over the bar.

Ray Jones did extremely well to hook clear from Kenwyne Jones in front of goal from a Bale free-kick on the right.

Half-time: QPR 0 Saints 0

Burley made a tactical switch at the start of the second half moving Viafara into the centre of midfield and switching Licka to the right.

Bale had a free-kick punched away by the keeper. The ball hit the corner flag and went for a throw which resulted in Baird's 22-yard shot being blocked at close range.

A right-wing free-kick by Bale dropped onto the head of Powell who nodded just wide of the far post.

Kenwyne Jones slipped a good ball through to Rasiak who looked offside but in any case the ball ran away from him to Royce when he seemed set to score on 53 minutes.

Bale drove over from the left edge of the area and then he cut along the byline but was robbed by Rehman for a corner headed away by Ray Jones.

The resulting throw was half-cleared and it dropped for Wright who blazed over from 16 yards on 62 minutes.

Pele won the ball well 25 yards out and set himself for a low shot which was narrowly wide of the right post.

Rangers almost took the lead on 68 minutes but Wright was well placed to clear Blackstock's overhead kick off the line.

Bale did well to get in a cross and Rasiak's lunge prodded the ball over.

Wright drove in low from 25 yards. Royce could only parry and although Rasiak pounced he could not prevent the ball running for a goal-kick before he could try and turn in a shot from the tightest of angles.

Both sides made a switch on 74 minutes in a bid to win it. Saints sent on McGoldrick and Wright-Phillips for Licka and Kenwyne Jones while QPR replaced Ray Jones with Nygaard.

Bale was brought down from behind by Bailey by the left corner of the area. Bale took the kick quickly but hit the sidenetting.

Saints took the lead 10 minutes from time. Bale's wicked inswinging corner from the right was fumbled by Royce and RASIAK bundled in from almost on the line for his 19th goal of the season and his 15th away from home.

QPR thought they had got an almost identical equaliser four minutes later when a long throw was fumbled by Davis and forced home from close range by Blackstock on ly for it to be disallowed for a foul on the keeper by Nygaard.
Saints almost got a second when Wright-Phillips got to the byline to the left of goal, cut back sharply and drew a smart save from Royce at the near post with a stinging shot.
A left-wing corner by Wright was flicked across goal by Lundekvam and flashed just in front of Rasiak lunging in at the far post.
Lomas fouled Pele at full-stretch 22 yards out and in the inside right channel but Bale's whipped free-kick flashed inches wide of the right post two minutes from time.
Saints were given three minutes to hold on but they ended up stretching their lead in the first of them when McGoldrick played a good ball over the top. WRIGHT-PHILLIPS broke through the inside right channel, cut in and drew the keeper before rifling in to the bottom right corner.

Full-time: QPR 0 Saints 2 Southampton
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - TRIPLE CHANGE
Sampsa Timoska makes his full QPR debut, as John Gregory makes three changes to his side for the visit of high-flying Southampton to Loftus Road.
With Marcus Bignot (injured) and Lee Cook (suspended) both unavailable, Gregory has also recalled Zesh Rehman and Shabazz Baidoo to the starting XI.
Timoska will make his home debut at left back, with Pat Kanyuka having to make do with a place amongst the substitutes.
Simon Royce lines up behind a back four of Rehman, Michael Mancienne, Damion Stewart and Timoska, while the midfield consists of Jimmy Smith, Steve Lomas, Marc Bircham and Baidoo.
Ray Jones partners former Saint Dexter Blackstock in attack, as the R's go gunning for a third home league win on the spin. Pre-Kick Off

-
[Not actually on the QPR Official site, yet - which actually hasn't yet announced that the original Witney United date, next week, is off.]

WITNEY UNITED
Witney United Vs QPR - New Date 30-04-07
"Mid Season Friendly"

19-01-07 full strength hoops coming to witney!!
The website can today reveal that the postponed friendly against Championship side Queens Park Rangers has been re-arranged and will now be played on Monday 30th April.
The original game was postponed due to QPR’s FA Cup replay at Luton Town being postponed but the game was swiftly re-arranged with a new date for nearer the end of the season.

QPR Assistant Manager and ex Witney Town man Richard Hill offered his apologies to any Witney fans over the change of date.
“It was totally out of our hands, we had actually got to Luton before the game was postponed so we also had a frustrating evening. However I made a promise to bring the First Team to Witney and I won’t go back on that, although the date is some way off it will be a very strong side that I will bring to Witney on the night. It would have been really easy to send a Youth or a Reserve side down and just fulfil the fixture but the deal was I would bring the First Team down so in April that’s what we will do. On behalf of Queens Park Rangers I would like to apologise for any inconveniences caused but we look forward to seeing you on the new date”
The club have announced that all tickets purchased for the original date will be valid for the re-arranged game and that tickets are now back on sale for the new date and are available from the following places.
Printinco Corn Street Witney 0845 652 6552
Ady Bircher 07747 123411
Mark Reid 07771 805823
Witney United Football Club 01993 848558 - Witney

Earlier Announcements of the Game (and postponement) Witney/QPR

-
QPR at home to Southampton today. Southampton lying 5th, have away from home: Won 4, drawn 5, lost 5. Scored 25. Let in 23. (QPR's home record: Won 5, Drawn 3, lost 6. Socred 19. Let in 19).
Some material from Southampton's Official Site (Nice clear outlay, with lots of easily-read, useful information)

Southampton's Perspective - Official Site
Saints will be out to avenge their only home defeat of the season as they travel to Loftus Road today.
QPR are the only side to have won at St Mary's since the start of the campaign and Jermaine Wright is determined to put that right.
The Southampton midfielder scored his first goal for the club to put them in front in that 2-1 defeat and now he is aiming to settle that score.
He said: "They are the only team to have beaten us at home and we owe them one for that.
"It is up to us to go there and take the game to them, attack them and put them on the back foot.
"We need to make up a bit of ground after being held at home by Burnley last week when we let ourselves and the fans down from the standards we have set recently.
"We felt that game was there for the taking and although we looked comfortable in possession, we did not create many chances.
"It was a bit like that for us at the start of the season but we came good and hopefully the same will happen again.
"We are on a good unbeaten run but have drawn four of our last five which has cost us ground.
"It looks good to be unbeaten but personally I would rather lose one and then win one or two because that gives you more points.
"We have drawn too many and if you do that then you don't move anywhere. But if we can string a few victories together then it will lift us right up."
Saints will have the backing of more than 3,000 fans for their shortest away trip of the season and Wright believes that could be crucial.
He added: "The supporters have been brilliant and it will be great to see so many of them there. Hopefully we can give them something to cheer and make it a good day out for them."
Saints will be up against their former striker Dexter Blackstock but Wright laughed: "We have got a plan for him - we'll just kick him!
"He is a good lad and it won't bother me if he scores - as long as we win."
Southampton

Southampton Results this season - Southampton Results

Southampton Squad - Squad

Player Statistics This Season - Games/Goals

Southampton
This weekend The Saints travel to Loftus Road to take on Queens Park Rangers. The last time these two teams met Saints lost the match 2-1. Can they turn this round?

The Saints have remained unbeaten in their last seven games, can they win this one to make it eight in a row? A win now could see them up at 4th place in the table. If you think they can do it a £10 bet on Saints to win could win you £23.50.

If you think they can reverse last times score then a £10 bet on Saints to win 2-1 could earn you £80. Are you more confident then that, do you think they can seal an even more convincing victory? In that case a £10 bet on Saints to win 3-1 could payback £180. Southampton

Southampton Rivals Preview of QPR Game - Preview

ALSO: QPR RIVALS Preview of Southampton Game - Preview

Also: Blackstock on QPR OFFICIAL SITE - PREVIEWING THE GAME

QPR OFFICIAL SITE PREVIEW OF GAME - Preview

-
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - PALADINI FROM TOMORROW'S PROGRAMME
".... Chairman Gianni Paladini brings us the latest news from the January transfer window. "Lee Cook, Dexter Blackstock, Ray Jones and Martin Rowlands have all been courted by Premiership clubs, but it remains our intention to keep hold of our top players and to build for the future,'' Paladini told Hoops.
"Our commitment to bringing back the good old days at Loftus Road remains unchanged and both myself and Antonio Caliendo are doing all we can to support John Gregory in his quest to add new players to the squad before the end of the month.'' QPR

[Also: John Gregory talking on QPR World on Transfers in and out - QPR World]

-
Yesterday, the amount football clubs paid to agents was released, for the period July 1- December 31, 2006. In this six months period, QPR paid to agents almost £187,340 - up from the £131,600 the same period the previous year. A number of other clubs were even more high-spending or had a bigger percentage increase. Some didn't. See list below.

(See also - QPR Report - Agents Fees

[Report on Agents from July 1, 2005-December 31, 2005 - Agents Report

[Some past spending for the YEAR, July 1, 2004-June 30, 2005: QPR paid £320,935 to Agents]

See last year's reported amounts re individual agents payments as reported by The Standard on Rivals - Standard Report

This past summer, on his return from Italy
OFFICIAL SITE - STATEMENT FROM CHAIRMAN, GIANNI PALADINI
Having just returned from the R's pre-season tour of Italy, QPR Chairman Gianni Paladini can't wait for the big kick-off....
"I urge all fans to treat such rumour-mongers with the contempt and scepticism they deserve. They have been claiming we would go into administration every week for the past year .... They predicted we would spend all the Club's money on agents' fees when we have spent less than nearly any other club in this division. ...Gianni Paladini QPR

In an interview with Ron Norris, QPR Net, in December 2005, Paladini declared
"People talk about the payments to agents but this is my money in the club, if we have to pay an agent then it is coming out of my pocket. I try to deal with agents to get the best deal for QPR and for us. Most of the players in the list of agents fees they were talking about were Shittu, Rowlands, Gallen, Furlong etc, players who were already here. Wait till you see the figures next year, it will be much lower. However somebody who has their own agenda issues all this misleading information. I ask you what have I done wrong for this club since I’ve been here? I’ve bought in people that can back me with money otherwise we’d have been finished a long time ago. ....

"...There are so many good players you can get and our contacts in the game help. For example Roberto Baggio was a client of Antonio’s so we tell him we’re looking for a tall striker and he recommends Marc Nygaard to us. Unfortunately he’s been injured but he’s 28, no transfer fee and whatever the agents fee is I think he’ll be worth it. Agents are here to stay, there’s no way you can run a decent football club without paying agents and anyone who thinks different doesn’t know football, you find me one player who doesn’t have an agent, they have them from the age of thirteen. QPR Net


INDEPENDENT - League highlights big increase in agent fees
By Nick Harris -Published: 19 January 2007

The ongoing leakage of football's wealth to agents was highlighted again yesterday with the publication of the latest Football League agents' fees report, which showed a 41 per cent increase in payments to middle men. Spending on agents' fees between July and December 2006 by the 72 non-Premiership clubs totalled £6.2m, against £4.4m in the same period last season. That represents a £1.8m increase, or 41 per cent. The biggest spenders were Southampton, whose spending was £842,533, followed by Sunderland (£594,000), then Stoke (£560,000) and Birmingham (£519,950).

No other clubs spent more than £500,000, but the average spend in the Championship was still £229,000. Only one Championship club, Colchester, paid no money to agents. League One clubs paid a total of £505,305, although five paid nothing, while, in League Two, total payments were £220,065, but the majority (15 clubs) paid nothing.

The 20 Premiership clubs undoubtedly pay the lion's share of agents' fees, with single deals being worth up to £3m for brokering. That is the sum that Pini Zahavi negotiated for himself to move one of his clients, Yakubu, from Portsmouth to Middlesbrough in 2005. But the true extent of payments at the top level is unknown because there is little or no transparency about such matters.

The Premier League has always been unwilling to force transparency. An Independent investigation earlier this year estimated that agents take between £125m and £150m per year, directly and indirectly, from English football's four top divisions.

The Football League broke new ground in September 2003 by voting to introduce the publication of agents' fees. Yesterday's report is the sixth time the League has made the figures public. It showed that the 72 clubs engaged in 2,034 transactions (signings, contract updates, contract cancellations and loans) between 1 July last year and 31 December. Agents were paid in 497 of those transactions.

In addition to the 21 clubs who paid nothing, another 30 committed £5,000 or less to agents in the period.

The League's chairman, Lord Mawhinney, said: "The new agents' regulations have helped bring greater transparency and integrity to the transfer system. In making these changes, we fully understood the culture of paying agents was deeply embedded and would take time to reverse. These figures underline that, with clubs spending, on average, more than £30,000 per day."

Payments to middle men outside the Premiership

Championship

Jul-Dec 06/Jul-Dec 05

Southampton £842,533/£275,000

Sunderland £594,500/n/a

Stoke £560,000/£59,355

Birmingham £519,950/n/a

Crystal Palace £433,818/£100,000

Derby £408,300/£58,500

West Bromwich £370,518/n/a

Cardiff £335,000/£155,000

Coventry £216,250/£105,250

Hull £202,400/£22,000

QPR £187,340/£131,600

Wolves £126,333/£153,334

Southend £122,190/£2,750

Plymouth £110,000/£38,575

Sheffield Wed £85,000/£51,500

Leeds £64,000/£576,800

Preston £62,500/£80,300

Burnley £56,000/£163,910

Luton £50,000/£92,000

Leicester £46,117/£300,990

Norwich £6,850/£438,000

Barnsley £5,000/£17,500

Ipswich £5,000/£110,242

Colchester £0/£0


League One
Bournemouth £1,000/£5,000

Bradford City £40,000/£29,400

Brentford £5,000/£23,850

Brighton & HA £37,500/£255,000

Bristol City £127,980/£86,850

Carlisle Utd £5,500/£3,120

Chesterfield £6,500/£0

Doncaster £3,000/£56,000

Gillingham £15,400/£0

Leyton Orient £29,000/£17,500

Millwall £78,140/£15,000

Northampton £5,000/£5,000

Nottingham For £6,000/£124,950

Oldham £7,000/£35,470

Rotherham £36,520/£23,500

Scunthorpe £5,000/£0

Swansea £26,100/£24,150

Tranmere £20,000/£14,940

Yeovil £50,665/£53,000

Five clubs did not pay agents: Blackpool, Cheltenham, Crewe, Huddersfield, Port Vale

League Two

Boston Utd £5,000/0

Bristol Rovers £26,500/£29,000

Darlington £44,603/£7,500

Grimsby £21,000 £13,560

Macclesfield £1,000/£11,250

Milton Keynes £55,500/£46,250

Shrewsbury £23,600/£0

Swindon £23,613/£5,500

Torquay £19,250/£9,610

15 clubs did not pay agents: Accrington Stanley, Barnet, Bury, Chester, Hartlepool, Hereford, Lincoln, Mansfield, Notts County, Peterborough, Rochdale, Stockport, Walsall, Wrexham, Wycombe

INDEPENDENT

-
Ten Years Ago Today: January 19, 1997: Port Vale 4 QPR 4

QPR have been involved in some rather dramatic comebacks in their time: Two obvious ones that will spring immediately to mind for all QPR supporters of age: Coming from 0-2 down at half-time at Wembley in the 1967 Final vs WBA. And the 1984 0-4 comeback at home to Newcastle by Alan Mullery's QPR.
And then there was the Port Vale game, a decade ago, today. The opposition was a little less "grandiose" than WBA or Newcastle; the significance of the comeback was perhaps a little less. But in terms of accomplishment, this was definitely quite a comeback - Especially since this was accomplished at Port Vale.

At half-time, Stuart Houston/Bruce Rioch's QPR were 0-4 down at Port Vale.....Final Score: QPR scored 3 goals in the last five minutes. Final score. Port Vale 4: QPR 4. (5,736 were there to see it.)

QPR's scorers; Holwyn (OG), Impey, Murray, Spencer.

QPR's Team:
Roberts
Brevitt - Ready - McDonald - M. Graham
Brazier -Murray - Peacock - Sinclair
Hately -Spencer
Impey, Maddix, Dichio

MATCH REPORT
Venue: Vale Park, Burslem Attendance: 5736

Port Vale: Musslewhite, Hill, Tankard, Jansson, Griffiths (Howlyn), Glover, McCarthy, Porter, Mills, Naylor, Guppy

QPR: Roberts, Graham, Brevett, Murray, McDonald, Ready, Spencer, McDermott, Hatley, Brazier, Sinclair. Subs: Dichio, Impey, Maddix

Match Report: Last week TWOVIEW looked back at an encounter where Wrexham and Blackpool got involved in a thriller when Wrexham came from 3 goals down to get a 3-3. This week we take things a stage further and whisk you back to 1997 where Queens Park Rangers amazingly turned over a 0-4 half time score line to pull of a dramatic 4-4 draw at Vale Park.

Port Vale, who at the time were enjoying some impressive performances in the 1st Division, aided by the wing play of Steve Guppy and Jon McCarthy got off to a good start in this televised Sunday match from January 1997.

In the 24th Minute it was Port Vale centre half Dean Glover who got a touch on to a waist high right wing cross inside the penalty area to put Port Vale in the driving seat. With Vale dominating the match things got even better on 35 minutes when a deep Steve Guppy cross from the left wing was headed home at the far post by Striker Lee Mills to make it 2-0.

On 41 minutes it was 3-0 when Tony Naylor touched back a right wing cross in to the path of Swedish Midfielder Jan Jansson who drilled home low from just inside the penalty area. Then 4 minutes later things got worse for QPR when defender Brazier (og) headed in to his own net right on 45 minutes.

At half time Port Vale looked untouchable and Television pundits who were covering the game tipped them to continue the route in the Second Half. Things didn't quiet work out this way and it was QPR who got back in to the game when Port Vale's ex Ajax defender Jermaine Holwyn (og) headed in to his own net from a deep QPR cross on 66 minutes.

With 5 minutes of normal time remaining the home side still looked comfortable, then one of the most drmatic turn of events took place… On 85 minutes a deep QPR cross was headed out by the Vale defence only for the ball to fall to Andy Impey just inside the penalty area. Impey swung his boot at the ball to produce a spectacular goal that bounced in off the underside of the cross bar to reduce the score to 4-2.

Soon after QPR struck again on 88 minutes when Paul Murray latched on to a long ball and chipped the stranded Musslewhite to make it 4-3. The Port Vale defence looked in a state of shock and following a brief altercation between Dean Glover and Rangers Striker Dichio in the goalmouth following Murray's goal the match was again underway.

Almost inevitably in the last minute QPR again broke forward down the left. A pin point cross from Impey met the head of Dichio in the 6 yard box only for Vale keeper Musslewhite to pull of a brilliant one handed save. To no avail however and the lose ball fell to QPR stiker John Spencer who gleefully fired home from a tight angle to make it 4-4, sparking scenes of wild celebration from the visiting QPR supporters behind Musslewhite's goal.

Goal times:
Glover (Port Vale) 24 mins
Mills (Port Vale) 35 mins
Jansson (Port Vale) 41 mins
Brazier (og) (Port Vale) 45 mins
Holwyn (og) (QPR) 66 mins
Impey (QPR) 85 mins
Murray (QPR) 88 mins
Spencer (QPR) 90 mins
Report

-
Ian Holloway - This is Plymouth18 January 2007
NEW SIGNINGS CAN HELP CLUB REALISE DREAM
You will have probably noticed that we've been busy over the past few days bringing in some new players to the club.
I am absolutely delighted with our signings and believe they will help this club progress to where I want it to go - the Premiership.
I brought in two really good Hungarian players - a midfielder, Peter Halmosi (pictured above) and Krisztian Timar, who plays in defence.
I must also praise Gary Penrice, who brought me DVDs of the two Hungarians, which prompted me to bring them over here.
I am equally delighted that I was able to persuade Kevin Gallen to join us on loan until the end of the season.
He's a real diamond and I can't believe I've got him.
He was with me at my old club QPR and I still don't reckon we've seen the best of him.
He's only 31 and can play as a striker or in centre midfield and has years in front of him.
He had a bug overnight on Friday and really wasn't well when he made his debut for us at Norwich City.
But he insisted he would play - that's Kevin for you, he's such a great bloke and as I've said, he's still got much, much more to offer....
That's changing now, which is want I wanted to happen as I am a great believer in team spirit and trying to build a happy club.This is Plymouth

-
BBC - Bignot makes plea to Rangers fans
Skipper Marcus Bignot has urged QPR fans to turn out in force for the struggling club's remaining home games.
He said: "We've got nine cup finals at Loftus Road. In terms of atmosphere, there's no better place. It's been said many times before, but it's true.
"Other players say when QPR are on the front foot and the ground's rocking, no-one wants to be the away side.
"I know it's expensive and some people might be unhappy for various reasons, but we really need them."
Rangers endured a miserable 2006 and are battling to avoid relegation from the Championship following a series of poor performances.
Price increases have led to a drop in attendances, while a section of fans are unhappy with the way the club has been run since chairman Gianni Paladini took control.
Bignot said: "My message to the fans is that they're entitled to voice their opinion, either at games or by staying away.
All of us - players and fans - have to ask ourselves what we can do at this time for the good of QPR
"But what we all want is what's best for Queens Park Rangers and we must come together and put aside any grievances for those nine games."
Last weekend's 2-1 defeat against Hull left Rangers in grave danger of slipping into League One.
John Gregory's side are just four points clear of 21st-placed Barnsley, who they face at the end of January.
Bignot added: "All of us - players and fans - have to ask ourselves what we can do at this time for the good of QPR. And in terms of the fans, it certainly isn't staying away.
"And it's no good players being upset about being picked one week and then not being picked.
"My attitude now, as captain, is no different to when I was on the transfer list and out of the side earlier in the season.
"It's not about me or any individual - it's about this club. Everybody's priority now has got to be to keep Queens Park Rangers in the Championship.
"No-one is going to want to come and play us at a Loftus Road that's rocking.
"And from our point of view, it's the same as in any walk of life - you perform better when you're being encouraged.
"QPR fans will never let you down. I know that from the time I've been here. So hopefully we can all now come together and do what we need to do to stay up." BBC

MARK BIRCHAM - ICONS -ON PLAYING, HIS FUTURE & KEVIN GALLEN'S DEPARTURE
It was good to be back in the starting line-up for the match against Hull City. I played 65 minutes before I was taken off, and I was pleased with the way I performed. I've been well happy with my form this year whenever I've played to be honest, I just haven't played as much as I'd have liked to.
The fitness coach thought that since I'd only trained for a week I should come off, but I could have kept going longer. I wasn't injured.I couldn't believe we lost the match after that. I was so gutted because it was a massive game. It just makes it all the more important to win against Southampton, and I'll be fit and raring to go for that.
It's so important we pick up three points in that match. Our away form has been terrible recently, but we know that if we win our games at home we can stay up.
Cooky [Lee Cook] will be missing for us after the suspension he picked up for his sending off against Hull, and he will be a big loss for us as he creates so many goals. We're still confident we can get a result, and at least he'll be available for the rearranged FA Cup tie against Luton next week.
I was absolutely gutted that Kevin Gallen left for Plymouth. He was not only my best mate at QPR, he was probably my best mate full stop. I've known Kev since I was nine, and he was also my room-mate.
We live round the corner from each other and we used to drive in together every day, so it's been a bit strange this week just travelling in on my own. It happened so quickly, as well. One week he's playing and the next he's gone. But I wish him well down there, obviously.
On the bright side, it's great news that Michael Mancienne has signed on loan until the end of the season. He's done really well for us. His was played at right-back for his first couple of games, and that's not his position, so he looked a bit nervous. But he's settled in and has done excellently at centre-half. He's a great prospect.
On a personal note, I've had no talks with the club about my future. I've said since the start of the season that I'm not interested in leaving QPR, and I'm not interested in leaving during the transfer window.
The manager has given me no indication if he'll offer me a new contract or not, though. It's hard because he doesn't know if we'll be in this league next season or if he'll still be here.
I want to see out my contract with QPR and at the end of the season we'll take it from there. My main objective is just to play for Rangers and keep us in this division. Finally, look out for my wife Jadene who will be appearing in WAGs Boutique on ITV2 later on this month. There are two shops in Carnaby Street with five wives in each shop and the woman that sells the most wins the competition. She's been filming since before Christmas because they had to design the shop and pick all the clothes. She's enjoying it, and it should be a good programme.
Icons

-
Relatively-recent news of ex-QPR Director Nigel Butterfield & ex-QPR Chairman, Chris Wright. [The two along with former QPR CEO, David Davies are at the London WASPS

Guardian, December 28, 2006 - Chrysalis execs scoop big bonuses
Chris Tryhorn, City correspondent

Radio and music group Chrysalis paid its departing finance director more than £1m as executives shared £875,000 of bonuses, according to the company's 2006 annual report.
Nigel Butterfield, who took early retirement in December 2005 after nearly 30 years at the group, was given a payoff of £937,000 in "compensation for loss of office", of which £565,000 was paid into his pension.

Taken together with the £106,000 in salary for four months' work and £4,000 in benefits, it took Mr Butterfield's earnings in his last year at Chrysalis to £1.05m.
The rest of the company's executives enjoyed pay rises on the back of hefty bonuses, having in some cases missed out on the extra payments for two years running.
Richard Huntingford, the chief executive, saw his pay go up 72% to £701,000 - his best tally since 2002 - thanks to a bonus of £291,000.
The chairman Chris Wright was paid £532,000, an increase of 64%, again thanks to a bonus of £197,000....
Guardian

Also:
The Guardian, January 8 - "Don't give away Heineken place warns Wasps owner" - Guardian

See also:
Chrysalis - Chrysalis
WASPS - Wasps

And a Fascinating lengthy old Dave Thomas/AKUTRs Interview with then Chairman Nigel Blackburn, posted on Boardroom Blues site - Interview

-
Contact the club if you have contact info for Tony Hazell, Jim Langley, Mike Keen
Ron Hunt, Mark Lazarus or Keith Sanderson.
[A possible starting point might be QPRNet's "Where Are they Now?" re 1960s Players - 1960s Players


QPR Official Site - MISSING LEGENDS
QPR are trying to find the following 1967 legends. Can you help us find them?
If you know how we can get in touch with the following League Cup winners, please get in touch with Julie Newman on julien@qpr.co.uk or Yvonne Goff on yvonneg@qpr.co.uk.
Tony Hazell
Jim Langley
Mike Keen
Ron Hunt
Mark Lazarus
Keith Sanderson
We are searching for the former players in relation to our 40 year anniversary of our League Cup win.
So if you, or anyone you know may be able to get us in touch with any of the above, please get in touch QPR

-
[From a couple of days ago, prior to the cancelled-game at Luton]

Royce rolls back the years - By Tony Stevens. Tuesday, 16 January 2007. FA
Simon Royce is full of admiration for the manager he will be having a reunion with in tonight's FA Cup Third Round replay between Luton and QPR.
The Rangers goalkeeper spent a month on loan at Kenilworth Road in 2004 under the stewardship of Mike Newell, who has since continued to take Luton forward and established them as a Championship club.
And Newell's achievements in Bedfordshire since taking over when the club were in the depths of League One have convinced Royce that the former Blackburn striker can be named among the best young managers in the country.
The former Leicester player said: "Luton is a very close-knit club and the lads are excellent there.
"You always find that at clubs like Luton, and it's similar to QPR because the team spirit's good.
"I would have liked to have spent a little longer there but they only needed me for a couple of games.
"Mike Newell's an excellent young manager. We got on quite well when I was there and I spoke to him at the first game a couple of weeks ago. He's a nice guy and so is his assistant Brian Stein; they work well together.
"You've got Mike and you've got Steve Tilson at Southend, who's doing very well, and with Aidy Boothroyd at Watford, things are looking good on the management side in England."
The original game at Loftus Road ended in a 2-2 draw, and Royce is hopeful QPR can repeat their 3-2 league victory over Luton at Kenilworth Road earlier in the season and book a Fourth Round date at home to Blackburn.
And with Rangers going into the game just four points above the Championship relegation zone, the 35-year-old is pleased to take his mind off league matters for one game at least.
He added: "We only played Luton recently and we had a great result there, just before we went on this poor run we're on at the moment. It will be nice to get away from the league." FA

-
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - DONNELLY DEPARTS
QPR midfielder Scott Donnelly has had his contract terminated by mutual consent.
The 19 year-old - who made just three starts for the R's in all competitions, as well as featuring a further 11 times from the bench - has left the Club with immediate effect.
Another product of the clubs Centre of Excellence, Donnelly signed a professional contract with the Superhoops in December 2005, just days before his 18th birthday.
Donnelly - who has previously represented England at Under-17 level - made nine appearances in total during the 2005/06 campaign.
However, he has failed to make an impact under the guidance of gaffer John Gregory and has today parted company with the Club. QPR

PREVIOUSLY POSTED
QPR's Scott Donnelly's Christmas Birthday-
QPR's Scott Donnelly Turns 19: Born December, 25 1987
Ian Holloway gave him his debut, with Donnelly coming on as sub against Preston in October 2004 at aged 16. Gary Waddock then gave him his full debut against Crystal Palace in February 2006. Donnelly came on as sub in QPR's opening game of this season, away to Burnely. Donnelly
[According to a number of posters on the various QPR messageboards, Scott Donnelly is one of a number of QPR players being released. If those reports are accurate, then one can only wish him much success in his future football career.]

QPR's Official Site Profile -Another product of the clubs Centre of Excellence, teenager Scott Donnelly signed a professional contract with the Superhoops in December 2005, just days before his 18th birthday.Donnelly, who has previously represented England at under 17 level, made nine appearances in total during the 2005/06 campaign, including a strong display at Ewood Park - the home of Blackburn Rovers - in the FA Cup third round.
A talented playmaker, Donnelly is a set-piece specialist, with the unique ability to unlock the meanest of defences with an inch-perfect through ball.

Playing Career thus far - Soccerbase

Daves's Queens Park Rangers Site Profile of Donnelly - Donnelly

Skysports article on Donnelly signing a professional contract in 2006 - Skysports

Six months ago, Donnelly was on the Italy tour with QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - JULY 2006 DAY ONE -SCOTT DONNELLY
QPR's pre-season trip has begun and each day we'll be catching up with the latest happenings with our players' diary entries.
Today a home sick Scott Donnelly told qpr.co.uk how his first day had been as Gary Waddock walked past three times, unable to get his door key to open his room.
Despite the fact that Monday was pencilled in as a rest day for the players - an hour long meeting this morning, followed by a pre-match meal left little time for any play.
A local tailor then came to measure the players for matching suits and then it was off to Sorrento.
Here's how Scott Donnelly has found the first day of his first trip abroad.
"I didn't mind the flight, it was a nice steady journey all the way - there were a couple of the lads who don't enjoy it as much but thankfully they got here in one piece!
The hotel is unbelievable and the food is lovely. The people are really friendly as well, they just can't understand us!
The pool looks nice, but it's been all work so far and none of us have had a chance to go in it yet.
We had a meeting this morning to go over what we'd be doing throughout the week and what our schedule will be.
We went through everything to do with pre-season so far. We were given the opportunity to go through things that we didn't like, but hardly anyone had any complaints.
It's been spot on throughout and there wasn't very much negative feedback at all. In fact, the only complaints were that some of the lads wanted to do MORE training.
Then we went through tonight's game against Sorrento and talked about how we're going to approach it.
I'm rooming with Jake Cole, I get on really well with him and he's in the same boat as me.
It was a massive thing for me that I got picked to come here and really was made up, this is my first trip away with QPR and it's great to be here and it's a great experience.
I've never been to Italy before, but I'd definitely come back with my family or my girlfriend. I'd like to be able to order my food and drink on my own though without having to ask Mauro or Marc!
I'm looking forward to the game tonight; I've never played a foreign team before so this will be a bit of a change for me." QPR
QPR Report

-
QPR'S AGENTS FEES - QPR OFFICIAL SITE
The latest agent's fees for July-December 2006 have been released. See how QPR compare to other clubs here
The latest Football League Agents' Fees Report has revealed that League clubs committed to paying more than £6.2m to agents during the first six months of the 2006/07 season - an increase of almost £1.8m on the amount spent in the same period last season.

Football League Chairman, Lord Mawhinney, said: "The League's new agents' regulations, introduced this summer, have helped bring greater levels of transparency and integrity to the transfer system.

"In making these changes, we fully understood that the culture of paying agents was deeply embedded and would take time to reverse. These figures underline that reality, with clubs spending, on average, more than £30,000 per day.
"However, change is in the air and the FA's new regulations on agents will also help to reinforce The Football League's message to its clubs."
The report reveals that clubs committed to pay agents in 24% (497) of the 2,034 player transactions that took place during the reporting period, collectively committing a sum of £6,214,969.

Championship clubs accounted for 88% (£5.5m) of this total, with League 1 and League 2 clubs accounting for 8% (£505k) and 4% (£220k) respectively.
Twenty-one clubs did not commit any money to agents and a further nine committed £5,000 or less.

REPORT SUMMARY

(Figures for July to December 2005 in brackets)

Overall Football League Figures

- Between July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2006 Football League clubs engaged in 2,034 (1,765) player transactions (new registrations/player transfers, contract updates, contract cancellations and loans);
- Clubs committed to pay an agent in 497 (237) of these transactions;
- League clubs committed to spend £6,214,969 (£4,427,986) during the period of this report;
- 21 (21) clubs did not commit any money to agents during the last six months;
- A further 9 clubs committed £5,000 or less to agents during the last six months.

The Championship

- In The Championship there were 731 (657) player transactions, 297 (136) involving the use of an agent;
- Clubs committed to spend a total of £5,489,599 (£3,741,886) on agents' fees during this period;
- 23 (23) clubs committed to pay for the services of a licensed agent;
- 1 (1) club did not pay for the services of a licensed agent (Colchester United).

League 1

- In League 1 there were 641 (560) player transactions, 122 (64) involving the use of an agent;
- Clubs committed to spend a total of £505,305 (£549,110) on agents' fees during this period;
- 19 clubs (15) committed to pay for the services of a licensed agent;
- 5 clubs (9) did not pay for the services of a licensed agent (Blackpool, Cheltenham Town, Crewe Alexandra, Huddersfield Town and Port Vale).

League 2

- In League 2 there were 662 (548) player transactions, 78 (37) involving the use of an agent;
- Clubs committed to spend a total of £220,065 (£136,990) on agents' fees during this period;
- 9 clubs (13) committed to pay for the services of a licensed agent;
- 15 clubs (11) did not pay for the services of a licensed agent (Accrington Stanley, Barnet, Bury, Chester City, Hartlepool United, Hereford United, Lincoln City, Mansfield Town, Notts County, Peterborough United, Rochdale, Stockport County, Walsall, Wrexham and Wycombe Wanderers).

QPR

Complete Breakdown - href="http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/staticFiles/94/d7/0,,10373~55188,00.pdf">List
FOR QPR
New Reg/ Tfr Updated
Contract-- Cancelled Contract -- Loans ---Total Transactions -- Total Amount Committed to Agents (1 July - 31 Dec 06) -- £Total Amount committed to Agents (1 July - 31 Dec 05)

QPR Queens Park Rangers 20 11 1 3 35 187,340 131,600

# posted by Administrator @ 9:36 AM 0 comments