From Armel Tchakounte to Zinedine Zidane?

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Two Years ago today, QPR were announcing the signing of Armel Tchakounte while ""The Trial" was just getting under way.

One year ago, QPR had just announced the release of eight players (Marc Bircham, Paul Furlong, Kevin Gallen, Paul Jones, Steve Lomas, Mauro Milanese, Simon Royce and Armel Tchakounte)and the new extended one year contracts for Marcus Bignot and Mark Nygaard Players Released

And today, The People rumour about Zinedine Yazid Zidane coming to QPR. Even if the Zidane story turns out to be pure rumour, there's no question that with the "new QPR," it's at least conceivable that such an event - or something comparable - could occur.


May 4, 2006:QPR Official Site - ARMEL ARRIVES
Cameroon international Armel Tchakounte has put pen to paper on a one year deal with the Hoops.
The 27 year-old, who trained with Rangers during the latter part of the season, today (Thursday) penned a one year deal - with an option of a second year - at Loftus Road.
Armel, whose previous clubs include Kitchee FC (Hong Kong), is a right footed, defensive midfielder, with great physical skills, high stamina and bags of experience in the top leagues in Africa and Asia.
"It's a dream come true to sign for an English club like QPR,'' Armel told qpr.co.uk.
"I really enjoyed my time training with the team during the last few weeks of the season and am glad I was rewarded with a contract.
"QPR are a big club and I'm really looking forward to playing at Loftus Road for the first time and helping the team next season.''
Hoops Caretaker Manager Gary Waddock was delighted to secure his second signing in as many hours, commenting: "Armel shone in training and will be a huge addition to this football club.
"He's a big, strong, powerful lad with great energy and will be a key player for us next season.''
Chairman Gianni Paladini believes the Hoops' latest signing will prove to be a firm favourite with the Rangers fans.
"He can run all day and has a never-say-die attitude. He will be a tremendous signing.
"Gary was really impressed with him in the three weeks he spent with us towards the end of last season and coupled with the other players we hope to bring in over the summer, we're really optimistic about the future.''

QPR Official Site - Player Profile - Name: Armel Tchakounte
Nationality: Cameroon Date of Birth: 22/12/1978
Position: Midfielder
Armel put pen to paper on a one year deal in the summer of 2006.
The 27 year-old, who trained with Rangers during the latter part of the previous season, penned a one year deal - with an option of a second year - at Loftus Road.
Armel, whose previous clubs include Kitchee FC (Hong Kong), is a right footed, defensive midfielder, with great physical skills, high stamina and bags of experience in the top leagues in Africa and Asia.

QPR Announce Eight Players Released: Two Given One Year Contracts-
AMay 3, 2006 - QPR Official Site - DUO REWARDED

Marcus Bignot and Marc Nygaard have today (Thursday) been offered one-year extensions to their current playing contracts, which expire in June 2007.

However, Marc Bircham, Paul Furlong, Kevin Gallen, Paul Jones, Steve Lomas, Mauro Milanese, Simon Royce and Armel Tchakounte have all been granted free transfers when their current contracts expire at the end of next month.

Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Manager John Gregory said: "Both Simon and Paul played their part in keeping us up this season with fine displays in goal. Marc, Mauro and Paul Furlong have all contributed at various times, when called upon.

"Steve Lomas has come in from the cold under the previous manager to play a major role in central midfield, inspiring the team to victories with some outstanding displays.

"We thank them all for their contribution and wish them every success, wherever they may go and in whatever they decide to do."

"And finally, a massive thank-you to Kevin Gallen. He has truly been a fantastic servant for many, many seasons and a firm favourite, not only with supporters, but also in the dressing room with his team-mates. I am sure you will join me in thanking Kevin for a wonderful career at Loftus Road.''

Gregory added: "I felt it was only right to inform both the players and the fans of my decision prior to our final home game of the season, because it gives them the chance to say goodbye.

"We thank them all for their contribution and wish them every success, wherever they may go and in whatever they decide to do."

Bignot and Nygaard have the opportunity to join 12 other players who have one year left on their current playing contracts, and seven others who have two years remaining on their deals.

The Club wishes to place on the record our gratitude to the eight players that are leaving for their efforts and endeavours they have given during their time here. QPR Official Site