Sunday, November 30, 2008
Mahon and Warnock Praise Sousa....Warnock: "What's happening at QPR is tremendous and it's not a case of if they get to the Premier League, but when"
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Update: Gary Waddock one of League Two Managers Nominated for Manager of The Month...Totally NON-QPR related, but Quite an Apology from Exeter City to their main Sponsors.
- A Sunday Footballer was Killed at the Little Harlington Playing Fields (on the Pitch next to Where QPR Train)
- "A Sunday league footballer died yesterday after being attacked on the pitch at the end of the match....The man who died was 43 and had turned out for amateurs Old Greenfordians....Police arrested two men....Officers yesterday cordoned off the part of pitch where the attack took place at the Little Harlington Playing Fields in Harlington, Middlesex. It is next to Chelsea’s old training ground, now used by Championship side QPR. China’s Olympic team ended up brawling on the pitch during a friendly in 2007...."
- Also: - " Time - Past Time - For Fan/Club Meeting (It's been some considerable time Since QPR Fan Groups Met with Club (Certainly not the three/four times a year meetings that were once spoken about.)
- Some Other Posted-Over the Weekend QPR Related Items: - Football Clubs Responding to the VAT Reduction (No Word Yet from QPR) --- Ten Days That Shook The World --- Obituary for a QPR Supporter (BBC Producer, Steve Rose) ---- Marking Forty Years Since Tommy Docherty Quit QPR (after 28 Days in Charge).
This is Local London/Mark George - Warnock says big wage earners 'have got to go'
-CRYSTAL Palace manager Neil Warnock thinks it's only a matter of time before big spenders QPR reach the Premiership and admitted the Eagles will be looking to offload players.
QPR have grabbed plenty of headlines following the purchase of the club by a group including Formula 1 team boss Flavio Briatore and look set to spend big to win promotion.
After Saturday's 0-0 draw against Paulo Sousa's team at Selhurst Park, Warnock was in favour of owners investing in Championship clubs.
He said: "I think it's tremendous. I like Flavio and I think he'll get to the Premiership. It's not if they get to the Premiership, it's when. I think they're going about it the right way. They're not throwing millions of pounds at players who are no good."
But the finances at Selhurst Park are somewhat different.
Warnock said: "We haven't got money at the moment so we've got to look to bring youngsters in and try and develop and get loan players. Hopefully in January we can let go five or six. We've got big wage earners who've got to go."
After a week which has seen the Eagles take seven points out of a possible nine, the Palace boss remained confident his team can continue their good run of form.
He said: "We've chipped away this year. We've started to play particularly well the last four weeks and I can only see us getting better, as long as we don't get too many injuries." This is Local London
Daily Mail - Warnock backs stunning Sousa to be a big hit in English football...and the English women
Neil Warnock has already lost his wife's heart to Paulo Sousa and now he fears the new QPR boss will also pip him to promotion.
The Crystal Palace manager has tipped the former Portugal midfielder to be a huge hit in the Championship - and not just among female fans.
- Sousa quit his coaching job with the Portuguese national federation to take charge at Loftus Road two weeks ago and earned a point from this scrappy derby.
- Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock thinks new QPR boss Paulo Sousa will be a big hit in English football
- The ex-Juventus star cut an incongruent figure at Selhurst Park, with his swept-back hair and designer suit providing a rare dose of glamour in this corner of south London.
- But Warnock believes Sousa has substance to back up his style.
"What's happening at QPR is tremendous and it's not a case of if they get to the Premier League, but when," Warnock said.
"Sousa seems a nice fella and he's a smooth b****** so my wife will like him.
"He could certainly get some modelling work if he wanted to but they all seem to be that way in Portugal.
"But Rangers seem to be going about things the right way.
"He played a lot of English lads and that's important because no matter how good the coaches, you need a nucleus of English guys in this league."
Gavin Mahon, one of six native players picked by Sousa, admitted a spot of internet research had made him understand why his new manager has such a gilded reputation.
"He has got an aura about him and obviously everyone has a lot of respect for him," he said.
- "When he was announced we started talking about him and what he's won in the game.
"I went on YouTube and saw some footage of him playing. It's clear he'll bring different things to my game and make me a better player."
- Rangers' wait for an away league goal might have been stretched to 662 minutes following this stalemate but they should have been celebrating a victory.
Early in the second half, Palace keeper Julian Speroni came haring out of his goal to close down Dexter Blackstock, but the Rangers striker won the race and squared to Heidar Helguson.
The on-loan Bolton striker had only to roll into an empty net from 25 yards, but he sliced wide of an open goal. Mail
Telegraph/Gemma Clarke - Queens Park Rangers manager Paulo Sousa learning fast as Neil Warnock eyes market
It is a new experience for QPR manager Paulo Souza to visit grounds like Selhurst Park, but he earned the approval of Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock, who is eyeing the January sales.
Sousa's initiation in English football is well underway, after he led his side through a gritty and unattractive 0-0 draw at a bitterly cold Selhurst Park.
Although the football on display was less than pleasing on the eye, Sousa's counterpart, Warnock, remained keen to discuss aesthetics.
"He's a looker, isn't he?" Warnock said of Sousa. "He could certainly get some modelling work if he wanted to. I met him before the game and he seems a nice fella. He will have his own way of doing things and, like the rest of us, will be judged on results."
Ben Watson and Sean Scannell both tested Rangers goalkeeper Radek Cerny but it was the visitors' on-loan forward, Heidar Helguson, who squandered the best chance. Moments into the second half, he received the ball in space with keeper Julian Speroni beaten and fired wide of the empty net.
It was not the type of encounter a Portuguese title winner is used to. "Of course this sort of game is different – a very different style to the places I played – but the points are the same," Sousa said. "I think we controlled the game and we had a clear chance to win it with Helguson, but we couldn't take it. I'm proud of the side because we've changed our ideas and way of playing in just a few training sessions and that is difficult to do.
"In the future, I hope we will be better and have more quality in games like this."
Warnock, meanwhile, has his eye on next month's transfer window. "We don't have the money so we have to try and develop our youngsters and bring in a few loan players," he said. "Hopefully we can get five or six big earners off the wage bill and freshen things up. But we've started to play well the last few weeks and I can only see us getting better." Telegraph
Mirror/Ann Gripper -MAHON: GOLDEN BOY SOU INSPIRING
- Paulo Sousa was part of Portugal's golden generation, but mixing it in the Championship will not be a problem, reckons Gavin Mahon.
After the short-lived Iain Dowie reign, Flavio Briatore has gone for a manager with a playing CV more in keeping with where he hopes QPR will be in the future.
This draw at Palace means Rangers have accumulated four points since the appointment of Sousa, twicea Champions League winner, 12 days ago. And his team are feeling inspired by the arrival of the former Benfica, Juventus and Inter Milan man.
Hoops skipper Mahon said: "He has a bit of an aura. Everyone has a lot of respect for him.
"He understands what our football is all about, he has friends who have played in this country and he's watched a lot of games since he's arrived.
"He knows this league is 100mph with no time on the ball. He's played under a lot of good coaches and has a lot to offer.
"The players do look at a manager's achievements.
When he was announced we started talking about him and what he's won in the game, and his experience.
"I remember seeing him play with Rui Costa in midfield for Portugal, and we've had a bit of a look on YouTube."
Saturday's point at Selhurst Park was only Rangers' seventh on their travels this season, but they could not end a goal drought away from home in the league that stretches back to August 17 - and Sousa will know he has work to do after this drab display.
The best chance fell to Heidar Helguson two minutes after half time as Eagles keeper Julian Speroni rushed out, but the striker - on loan from Bolton - shot wide of an open goal.
Palace, who dominated possession without creating anything, almost snatched a win at the death when Radek Cerny spilled Leandre Griffit's fierce shot but recovered to clear the loose ball. Mirror
- Also: Clive Whittingham/Lost for Word Match Report
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Update: Gary Waddock one of League Two Managers Nominated for Manager of The Month...Totally NON-QPR related, but Quite an Apology from Exeter City to their main Sponsors.
- A Sunday Footballer was Killed at the Little Harlington Playing Fields (on the Pitch next to Where QPR Train)
- "A Sunday league footballer died yesterday after being attacked on the pitch at the end of the match....The man who died was 43 and had turned out for amateurs Old Greenfordians....Police arrested two men....Officers yesterday cordoned off the part of pitch where the attack took place at the Little Harlington Playing Fields in Harlington, Middlesex. It is next to Chelsea’s old training ground, now used by Championship side QPR. China’s Olympic team ended up brawling on the pitch during a friendly in 2007...."
- Also: - " Time - Past Time - For Fan/Club Meeting (It's been some considerable time Since QPR Fan Groups Met with Club (Certainly not the three/four times a year meetings that were once spoken about.)
- Some Other Posted-Over the Weekend QPR Related Items: - Football Clubs Responding to the VAT Reduction (No Word Yet from QPR) --- Ten Days That Shook The World --- Obituary for a QPR Supporter (BBC Producer, Steve Rose) ---- Marking Forty Years Since Tommy Docherty Quit QPR (after 28 Days in Charge).
This is Local London/Mark George - Warnock says big wage earners 'have got to go'
-CRYSTAL Palace manager Neil Warnock thinks it's only a matter of time before big spenders QPR reach the Premiership and admitted the Eagles will be looking to offload players.
QPR have grabbed plenty of headlines following the purchase of the club by a group including Formula 1 team boss Flavio Briatore and look set to spend big to win promotion.
After Saturday's 0-0 draw against Paulo Sousa's team at Selhurst Park, Warnock was in favour of owners investing in Championship clubs.
He said: "I think it's tremendous. I like Flavio and I think he'll get to the Premiership. It's not if they get to the Premiership, it's when. I think they're going about it the right way. They're not throwing millions of pounds at players who are no good."
But the finances at Selhurst Park are somewhat different.
Warnock said: "We haven't got money at the moment so we've got to look to bring youngsters in and try and develop and get loan players. Hopefully in January we can let go five or six. We've got big wage earners who've got to go."
After a week which has seen the Eagles take seven points out of a possible nine, the Palace boss remained confident his team can continue their good run of form.
He said: "We've chipped away this year. We've started to play particularly well the last four weeks and I can only see us getting better, as long as we don't get too many injuries." This is Local London
Daily Mail - Warnock backs stunning Sousa to be a big hit in English football...and the English women
Neil Warnock has already lost his wife's heart to Paulo Sousa and now he fears the new QPR boss will also pip him to promotion.
The Crystal Palace manager has tipped the former Portugal midfielder to be a huge hit in the Championship - and not just among female fans.
- Sousa quit his coaching job with the Portuguese national federation to take charge at Loftus Road two weeks ago and earned a point from this scrappy derby.
- Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock thinks new QPR boss Paulo Sousa will be a big hit in English football
- The ex-Juventus star cut an incongruent figure at Selhurst Park, with his swept-back hair and designer suit providing a rare dose of glamour in this corner of south London.
- But Warnock believes Sousa has substance to back up his style.
"What's happening at QPR is tremendous and it's not a case of if they get to the Premier League, but when," Warnock said.
"Sousa seems a nice fella and he's a smooth b****** so my wife will like him.
"He could certainly get some modelling work if he wanted to but they all seem to be that way in Portugal.
"But Rangers seem to be going about things the right way.
"He played a lot of English lads and that's important because no matter how good the coaches, you need a nucleus of English guys in this league."
Gavin Mahon, one of six native players picked by Sousa, admitted a spot of internet research had made him understand why his new manager has such a gilded reputation.
"He has got an aura about him and obviously everyone has a lot of respect for him," he said.
- "When he was announced we started talking about him and what he's won in the game.
"I went on YouTube and saw some footage of him playing. It's clear he'll bring different things to my game and make me a better player."
- Rangers' wait for an away league goal might have been stretched to 662 minutes following this stalemate but they should have been celebrating a victory.
Early in the second half, Palace keeper Julian Speroni came haring out of his goal to close down Dexter Blackstock, but the Rangers striker won the race and squared to Heidar Helguson.
The on-loan Bolton striker had only to roll into an empty net from 25 yards, but he sliced wide of an open goal. Mail
Telegraph/Gemma Clarke - Queens Park Rangers manager Paulo Sousa learning fast as Neil Warnock eyes market
It is a new experience for QPR manager Paulo Souza to visit grounds like Selhurst Park, but he earned the approval of Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock, who is eyeing the January sales.
Sousa's initiation in English football is well underway, after he led his side through a gritty and unattractive 0-0 draw at a bitterly cold Selhurst Park.
Although the football on display was less than pleasing on the eye, Sousa's counterpart, Warnock, remained keen to discuss aesthetics.
"He's a looker, isn't he?" Warnock said of Sousa. "He could certainly get some modelling work if he wanted to. I met him before the game and he seems a nice fella. He will have his own way of doing things and, like the rest of us, will be judged on results."
Ben Watson and Sean Scannell both tested Rangers goalkeeper Radek Cerny but it was the visitors' on-loan forward, Heidar Helguson, who squandered the best chance. Moments into the second half, he received the ball in space with keeper Julian Speroni beaten and fired wide of the empty net.
It was not the type of encounter a Portuguese title winner is used to. "Of course this sort of game is different – a very different style to the places I played – but the points are the same," Sousa said. "I think we controlled the game and we had a clear chance to win it with Helguson, but we couldn't take it. I'm proud of the side because we've changed our ideas and way of playing in just a few training sessions and that is difficult to do.
"In the future, I hope we will be better and have more quality in games like this."
Warnock, meanwhile, has his eye on next month's transfer window. "We don't have the money so we have to try and develop our youngsters and bring in a few loan players," he said. "Hopefully we can get five or six big earners off the wage bill and freshen things up. But we've started to play well the last few weeks and I can only see us getting better." Telegraph
Mirror/Ann Gripper -MAHON: GOLDEN BOY SOU INSPIRING
- Paulo Sousa was part of Portugal's golden generation, but mixing it in the Championship will not be a problem, reckons Gavin Mahon.
After the short-lived Iain Dowie reign, Flavio Briatore has gone for a manager with a playing CV more in keeping with where he hopes QPR will be in the future.
This draw at Palace means Rangers have accumulated four points since the appointment of Sousa, twicea Champions League winner, 12 days ago. And his team are feeling inspired by the arrival of the former Benfica, Juventus and Inter Milan man.
Hoops skipper Mahon said: "He has a bit of an aura. Everyone has a lot of respect for him.
"He understands what our football is all about, he has friends who have played in this country and he's watched a lot of games since he's arrived.
"He knows this league is 100mph with no time on the ball. He's played under a lot of good coaches and has a lot to offer.
"The players do look at a manager's achievements.
When he was announced we started talking about him and what he's won in the game, and his experience.
"I remember seeing him play with Rui Costa in midfield for Portugal, and we've had a bit of a look on YouTube."
Saturday's point at Selhurst Park was only Rangers' seventh on their travels this season, but they could not end a goal drought away from home in the league that stretches back to August 17 - and Sousa will know he has work to do after this drab display.
The best chance fell to Heidar Helguson two minutes after half time as Eagles keeper Julian Speroni rushed out, but the striker - on loan from Bolton - shot wide of an open goal.
Palace, who dominated possession without creating anything, almost snatched a win at the death when Radek Cerny spilled Leandre Griffit's fierce shot but recovered to clear the loose ball. Mirror
- Also: Clive Whittingham/Lost for Word Match Report
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Parejo Makes a Team of the Week! ....FA Cup Draw: Burnley at Home
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Visit the QPR Report Messageboard ---- Ex-QPR Jim Smith Back Managing ---- In Germany: Open Access to Fans and Press
Heavily slated on the messageboards; taken off at half-time...Dani Parejo
Eurosport: Championship Team of The Week - Including....Dani Parejo
":...In midfield Daniel Parejo deservedly takes a shirt following a cultured showing for Crystal Palace against QPR. The Spaniard is on loan from Real Madrid and the La Liga behemoths may well want him back if Parejo continues in similar vein..." Report
FA CUP Third Round: QPR vs Burnley
- Meanwhile in the Third Round of the FA Cup, QPR were drawn at home to Burnley. (Game to be played January 3) - Complete FA Cup Third Round Draw.
Past QPR-Burnley FA Cup Games: Burnley Mad recall the two previous QPR-Burnley FA Cup encounters
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard ---- Ex-QPR Jim Smith Back Managing ---- In Germany: Open Access to Fans and Press
Heavily slated on the messageboards; taken off at half-time...Dani Parejo
Eurosport: Championship Team of The Week - Including....Dani Parejo
":...In midfield Daniel Parejo deservedly takes a shirt following a cultured showing for Crystal Palace against QPR. The Spaniard is on loan from Real Madrid and the La Liga behemoths may well want him back if Parejo continues in similar vein..." Report
FA CUP Third Round: QPR vs Burnley
- Meanwhile in the Third Round of the FA Cup, QPR were drawn at home to Burnley. (Game to be played January 3) - Complete FA Cup Third Round Draw.
Past QPR-Burnley FA Cup Games: Burnley Mad recall the two previous QPR-Burnley FA Cup encounters
Brian Glanville on QPR Under Briatore...Gulf Weekly QPR Poll...Ex-Chairman Caliendo Q&A....AEK Athens' QPR Victory...Les Ferdinand (and Son) in Gulf
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Visit the QPR Report Messageboard...Among the articles posted there:
- Forty Years Ago Today, After 28 Days in Charge, "The Doc" (Tommy Docherty) Quit as QPR Manager
- The Continued Attraction of English Football
- Continuing Sports (not football specific) in the age of Terrorism
- Football Clubs Prices and the VAT Reduction: (No Word yet from QPR)
Brian Glanville/World Soccer (Written Prior to this week's Charlton/Watford games)
- Could things get any worse at Queens Park Rangers? Could Paulo Sousa, now enlisted, not as manager, mark you, but only as chief coach to the club, already be regretting having left his post as second in command of Portugal’s national team? Any comparison one might have made between the stern reign of Jim Gregory, which at least produced substantial results, and that of the autocratic Flavio Briatore, now seem irrelevant. The suggestion that Briatore himself might have become the manager in name as well, it seems, as in practice, was surely unfounded. All that money – Mitta, Ecclestone, even if so much of it seems ominously to be in the wife’s name; and the mountain produces the mouse of a 3-0 defeat at struggling Watford. All very sad to see. World Soccer
Gulf Weekly Poll Question:Will QPR go up into the Premiership at the end of the season?
Yes 51.64%
No 48.36% Gulf Weekly Poll
From an Article on Greek Football Successes, including -The Horror. The Horror! - of AEK Athens QPR Victory]
Goal.com - Just How Important Was Panathinaikos' Inter Triumph?
Panathinaikos’ Champions League victory over Inter Milan will live long in the memory of a generation of fans,but just where does it sit in Greek football history? Goal.com’s Chris Paraskevas gives his list of the most important accomplishments for Greek football on the European scene…..
Fairytale Run: AEK Athens, 1976-77 UEFA Cup Campaign
A semi-final appearance in the UEFA Cup remains the furthest a Greek side have ever progressed in the competition to this day.
The feat was accomplished by an AEK Athens side enjoying a ‘Golden Era’ under president Loukas Barlos and their famous run included unprecedented victories over a Derby County team who had just emerged out of their tutelage under Brian Clough, an away goals win over Red Star Belgrade and perhaps most famously of all, a penalty shoot-out victory over an in-form Queens Park Rangers outfit who had scored 26 goals in the competition up until that point. The Greeks were eliminated in the semi-final by Giovanni Trapattoni’s Juventus, who would go on to clinch their first ever European title with a two-legged victory over Athletic Bilbao in the final, though it was a fairytale run to perhaps at least rival that of Panathinaikos’ European Cup campaign five years earlier." Goal.Com
Gulf Weekly/Stan Szecowka - [Les Ferdinand] Son's injury agony
LES Ferdinand brought his 21-year-old son Aaron with him on his trip to Bahrain for a morale-boosting break as the young striker tries to follow in his father's footsteps and become a professional footballer.
Last New Year the youngster was undergoing a major operation to repair his shattered left leg after a crunching tackle in the penalty box looked like it may have put paid to a promising career before it had started.
Aaron was severely injured by a lunging clearance attempt by an opposing goalie to prevent him from scoring for Conference South side St Albans City. His powerful running and goal-scoring talent appeared to be a 'chip off the old block' and Championship side Watford was set to sign him up on professional terms. "I can remember the incident so clearly in my mind - my standing leg was taken away and I had no chance.
"Doctors have said that I can start playing football again next month so I'm very excited although I appreciate the hard work is only just about to start."
At least the young man will have his proud father to turn to for support. 'Sir' Les suffered serious Achilles problems during his time playing for Tottenham and says it takes real strength of character to fight back to fitness from injury. "Injuries are part and parcel of the game. You've got to keep your head up, stay confident and determined."
The former England international hopes to instil his 'never say die' attitude to the current Spurs team after being approached by recently-installed manager Harry Redknapp to coach the improving Premiership side's strikers.
"Harry believes there are a number of players of my generation who have still got lots to offer the sport," said Ferdinand, 42, who aims to further his coaching skills and obtain the necessary qualifications and experience needed to qualify for a management hot-seat in the future.
As a player he says former Newvcastle boss Kevin Keegan was the best 'man motivator' and ex-England coach Terry Venables the top strategist. Gulf Weekly
Q&A With Ex-QPR Chairman Antonio Caliendo
- In Italian Caliemercato - ANTONIO CALIENDO: Antonio Caliendo, storico agente di calciatori, si è confessato in esclusiva a calciomercato.it
English Web Translation ANTONIO CALIENDO
Antonio Caliendo, historical agent players, has confessed exclusively to calciomercato.it
MILAN - Antonio Caliendo not many years ago was the number one of the prosecutors. . In his team were champions of Caratage world (and there is no more time off: in the final of Rome of Italian World in 1990 between Germany and Argentina out of 22 players in camp, 12 are its well-assisted) and the particular appeal technical racetracks. Caliendo, so to name a few, is the one who has followed step by step pardon football after football, players like Roberto Baggio, Carlos Dunga, Claudio Paul Caniggia, Daniel Passarella, Diaz Ramon, David Trezeguet, Douglas Maicon. Caliendo in practice was the precursor dell'ormai arch-known figure of the modern prosecutor, or agent players who say it should.
Following is the country 'chairman' and shareholder of the Queen's Park Rangers, famed English training currently campaigning in Championship (Series B local), After an attempt to climb the property of Modena together with a group enterprise, now a consultant for players and society. Calciomercato.it has interviewed Exclusive:
Dr. Caliendo, his name has again erupted in several newspapers on arrogance is still interested in acquiring the Modena?
" "No. The explain why: I created a very strong group to take over ownership of the club Emilian, but there were details to go forward. Those economic, I mean ... The family Amadei has submitted a request that, according to the My experience with evaluations of the club, not even worth it to look. E 'out of the market, are quite rational. I treaty on behalf of my team, but we are always the usual ".
It 'an unfortunate period for her, after the vicissitudes on the sale of Flavio Briatore at QPR ...
"Days ago I issued a press release, I gave mandate to my lawyers (there are outstanding disputes between the old and the new ownership, ndr) to assess the situation. We will see what happens."
The job of prosecutor sport has changed over time ...
"The answer with a small consideration: more can be done today consultants, once the prosecutor to be a player had to be almost a second father. Football has changed the way I was expecting me, today we are also dancing mere economic interests. There is also this ...".
After Calciopoli the world of 'ball rolling' has changed for the better or Moggi and members have paid for all?
"... Mah has said and written a lot about this. I believe that football now is certainly more unpredictable. There are companies that some time ago I never believed come fourth or fifth. Today they are there. The Catania had risen in top positions despite a name not to cry and now has fallen a bit after a few days, Chievo at the time was a beautiful fairy tale. Once, however, there was a marked difference: it seemed there were two championships, now you can at least win or lose with all teams. There is talk of so-called 'rigorini' to Milan and other benefits granted to Inter or Juventus well, now I believe comes from good faith and into arbitration. Unfortunately, there are several different Concept Lo Bello and the like, now a director tendering wrong may have less preparation of others. It 'also a problem of personality. "
. She has always been tied to the figure of Dunga, since the times in which he was better known by its natural name: Carlos Caetano Bledorn Verri.? Now that is the national coach of the most titled world as he has read the criticisms on the case Amauri?
Ha vastness of choice, the choice not to convene Amauri believe has influenced the fact that they are working for it world-famous players. If there are issues of nationality do not know, but I know that Dunga is a serious man. For him there are not any ultimatums, there is blackmail which takes ".
Now what Antonio Caliendo?
"I am a consultant, too many players, I follow a po 'entire football landscape."
Now that is considered the best right side of the world, what makes them happy?
"Perhaps even harbor some 'luck Inter. Nineteen years ago Ramon Diaz took the Nerazzurri and won the scudetto. After sixteen here and Maicon Inter wins again ... these are also satisfactions."
And Trezeguet, another great champion who follows a daily basis?
"About him I would say one thing. I take this opportunity thanks to you, but why a player like him has never been in the qualifications of the Golden Ball? There is talk of a world champion and Europe, was gunner Juve's for many years, the bomber most prolific of European football ... a thing to think when it is not present in the rankings of the Golden Ball? Jean-Pierre Papin won his prize, but is not comparable to David, from These are facts I think that this is an assignment policy ...".
Not bad as incipit ...
"Mass, people are careful enough, the player is stronger voted on the basis of what they won in their careers. If after winning a lot is not even selected, it is really incredible. If you are not separate him .. . Says the history of football. "
. At that time was procurator of 140 players participating in the World and Italian final between Germany and Argentina in the field there were 12, more than half. Qual è il ricordo più bello? What is the best memory?
"There are many anecdotes, one day more calm I tell them in detail. I could say things about Baggio and many others, but I like to remember what I said to Schillaci still before the end Juve. It was in Messina in B, I had to bring him to Turin: the predicted the Magical Nights of which was the protagonist. A few months later became the gunner's Juventus in the first year in A, was led by the World Azeglio Vicini and became the Golden Shoe of the event with 6 networks. I had expected, we had always believed. One day I said that Schillaci and Baggio were the twins of Italy, I was orgogliosissimo. "
Luigi Sinibaldi - Web Translation
See also: Past Caliendo Blog Posts including re QPR matters
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard...Among the articles posted there:
- Forty Years Ago Today, After 28 Days in Charge, "The Doc" (Tommy Docherty) Quit as QPR Manager
- The Continued Attraction of English Football
- Continuing Sports (not football specific) in the age of Terrorism
- Football Clubs Prices and the VAT Reduction: (No Word yet from QPR)
Brian Glanville/World Soccer (Written Prior to this week's Charlton/Watford games)
- Could things get any worse at Queens Park Rangers? Could Paulo Sousa, now enlisted, not as manager, mark you, but only as chief coach to the club, already be regretting having left his post as second in command of Portugal’s national team? Any comparison one might have made between the stern reign of Jim Gregory, which at least produced substantial results, and that of the autocratic Flavio Briatore, now seem irrelevant. The suggestion that Briatore himself might have become the manager in name as well, it seems, as in practice, was surely unfounded. All that money – Mitta, Ecclestone, even if so much of it seems ominously to be in the wife’s name; and the mountain produces the mouse of a 3-0 defeat at struggling Watford. All very sad to see. World Soccer
Gulf Weekly Poll Question:Will QPR go up into the Premiership at the end of the season?
Yes 51.64%
No 48.36% Gulf Weekly Poll
From an Article on Greek Football Successes, including -The Horror. The Horror! - of AEK Athens QPR Victory]
Goal.com - Just How Important Was Panathinaikos' Inter Triumph?
Panathinaikos’ Champions League victory over Inter Milan will live long in the memory of a generation of fans,but just where does it sit in Greek football history? Goal.com’s Chris Paraskevas gives his list of the most important accomplishments for Greek football on the European scene…..
Fairytale Run: AEK Athens, 1976-77 UEFA Cup Campaign
A semi-final appearance in the UEFA Cup remains the furthest a Greek side have ever progressed in the competition to this day.
The feat was accomplished by an AEK Athens side enjoying a ‘Golden Era’ under president Loukas Barlos and their famous run included unprecedented victories over a Derby County team who had just emerged out of their tutelage under Brian Clough, an away goals win over Red Star Belgrade and perhaps most famously of all, a penalty shoot-out victory over an in-form Queens Park Rangers outfit who had scored 26 goals in the competition up until that point. The Greeks were eliminated in the semi-final by Giovanni Trapattoni’s Juventus, who would go on to clinch their first ever European title with a two-legged victory over Athletic Bilbao in the final, though it was a fairytale run to perhaps at least rival that of Panathinaikos’ European Cup campaign five years earlier." Goal.Com
Gulf Weekly/Stan Szecowka - [Les Ferdinand] Son's injury agony
LES Ferdinand brought his 21-year-old son Aaron with him on his trip to Bahrain for a morale-boosting break as the young striker tries to follow in his father's footsteps and become a professional footballer.
Last New Year the youngster was undergoing a major operation to repair his shattered left leg after a crunching tackle in the penalty box looked like it may have put paid to a promising career before it had started.
Aaron was severely injured by a lunging clearance attempt by an opposing goalie to prevent him from scoring for Conference South side St Albans City. His powerful running and goal-scoring talent appeared to be a 'chip off the old block' and Championship side Watford was set to sign him up on professional terms. "I can remember the incident so clearly in my mind - my standing leg was taken away and I had no chance.
"Doctors have said that I can start playing football again next month so I'm very excited although I appreciate the hard work is only just about to start."
At least the young man will have his proud father to turn to for support. 'Sir' Les suffered serious Achilles problems during his time playing for Tottenham and says it takes real strength of character to fight back to fitness from injury. "Injuries are part and parcel of the game. You've got to keep your head up, stay confident and determined."
The former England international hopes to instil his 'never say die' attitude to the current Spurs team after being approached by recently-installed manager Harry Redknapp to coach the improving Premiership side's strikers.
"Harry believes there are a number of players of my generation who have still got lots to offer the sport," said Ferdinand, 42, who aims to further his coaching skills and obtain the necessary qualifications and experience needed to qualify for a management hot-seat in the future.
As a player he says former Newvcastle boss Kevin Keegan was the best 'man motivator' and ex-England coach Terry Venables the top strategist. Gulf Weekly
Q&A With Ex-QPR Chairman Antonio Caliendo
- In Italian Caliemercato - ANTONIO CALIENDO: Antonio Caliendo, storico agente di calciatori, si è confessato in esclusiva a calciomercato.it
English Web Translation ANTONIO CALIENDO
Antonio Caliendo, historical agent players, has confessed exclusively to calciomercato.it
MILAN - Antonio Caliendo not many years ago was the number one of the prosecutors. . In his team were champions of Caratage world (and there is no more time off: in the final of Rome of Italian World in 1990 between Germany and Argentina out of 22 players in camp, 12 are its well-assisted) and the particular appeal technical racetracks. Caliendo, so to name a few, is the one who has followed step by step pardon football after football, players like Roberto Baggio, Carlos Dunga, Claudio Paul Caniggia, Daniel Passarella, Diaz Ramon, David Trezeguet, Douglas Maicon. Caliendo in practice was the precursor dell'ormai arch-known figure of the modern prosecutor, or agent players who say it should.
Following is the country 'chairman' and shareholder of the Queen's Park Rangers, famed English training currently campaigning in Championship (Series B local), After an attempt to climb the property of Modena together with a group enterprise, now a consultant for players and society. Calciomercato.it has interviewed Exclusive:
Dr. Caliendo, his name has again erupted in several newspapers on arrogance is still interested in acquiring the Modena?
" "No. The explain why: I created a very strong group to take over ownership of the club Emilian, but there were details to go forward. Those economic, I mean ... The family Amadei has submitted a request that, according to the My experience with evaluations of the club, not even worth it to look. E 'out of the market, are quite rational. I treaty on behalf of my team, but we are always the usual ".
It 'an unfortunate period for her, after the vicissitudes on the sale of Flavio Briatore at QPR ...
"Days ago I issued a press release, I gave mandate to my lawyers (there are outstanding disputes between the old and the new ownership, ndr) to assess the situation. We will see what happens."
The job of prosecutor sport has changed over time ...
"The answer with a small consideration: more can be done today consultants, once the prosecutor to be a player had to be almost a second father. Football has changed the way I was expecting me, today we are also dancing mere economic interests. There is also this ...".
After Calciopoli the world of 'ball rolling' has changed for the better or Moggi and members have paid for all?
"... Mah has said and written a lot about this. I believe that football now is certainly more unpredictable. There are companies that some time ago I never believed come fourth or fifth. Today they are there. The Catania had risen in top positions despite a name not to cry and now has fallen a bit after a few days, Chievo at the time was a beautiful fairy tale. Once, however, there was a marked difference: it seemed there were two championships, now you can at least win or lose with all teams. There is talk of so-called 'rigorini' to Milan and other benefits granted to Inter or Juventus well, now I believe comes from good faith and into arbitration. Unfortunately, there are several different Concept Lo Bello and the like, now a director tendering wrong may have less preparation of others. It 'also a problem of personality. "
. She has always been tied to the figure of Dunga, since the times in which he was better known by its natural name: Carlos Caetano Bledorn Verri.? Now that is the national coach of the most titled world as he has read the criticisms on the case Amauri?
Ha vastness of choice, the choice not to convene Amauri believe has influenced the fact that they are working for it world-famous players. If there are issues of nationality do not know, but I know that Dunga is a serious man. For him there are not any ultimatums, there is blackmail which takes ".
Now what Antonio Caliendo?
"I am a consultant, too many players, I follow a po 'entire football landscape."
Now that is considered the best right side of the world, what makes them happy?
"Perhaps even harbor some 'luck Inter. Nineteen years ago Ramon Diaz took the Nerazzurri and won the scudetto. After sixteen here and Maicon Inter wins again ... these are also satisfactions."
And Trezeguet, another great champion who follows a daily basis?
"About him I would say one thing. I take this opportunity thanks to you, but why a player like him has never been in the qualifications of the Golden Ball? There is talk of a world champion and Europe, was gunner Juve's for many years, the bomber most prolific of European football ... a thing to think when it is not present in the rankings of the Golden Ball? Jean-Pierre Papin won his prize, but is not comparable to David, from These are facts I think that this is an assignment policy ...".
Not bad as incipit ...
"Mass, people are careful enough, the player is stronger voted on the basis of what they won in their careers. If after winning a lot is not even selected, it is really incredible. If you are not separate him .. . Says the history of football. "
. At that time was procurator of 140 players participating in the World and Italian final between Germany and Argentina in the field there were 12, more than half. Qual è il ricordo più bello? What is the best memory?
"There are many anecdotes, one day more calm I tell them in detail. I could say things about Baggio and many others, but I like to remember what I said to Schillaci still before the end Juve. It was in Messina in B, I had to bring him to Turin: the predicted the Magical Nights of which was the protagonist. A few months later became the gunner's Juventus in the first year in A, was led by the World Azeglio Vicini and became the Golden Shoe of the event with 6 networks. I had expected, we had always believed. One day I said that Schillaci and Baggio were the twins of Italy, I was orgogliosissimo. "
Luigi Sinibaldi - Web Translation
See also: Past Caliendo Blog Posts including re QPR matters
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Saturday, November 29, 2008
QPR's Draw at Crystal Palace - Reports, Analysis and Managerial Comments
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Visit the QPR Report Messageboard...Among the articles posted there:
- Forty Years Ago Today, after 28 days in charge, "The Doc" (Tommy Docherty) Quit as QPR Manager
- The Continued Attraction of English Football
- Continuing Sports (not football specific) in the age of Terrorism
- Football Clubs Prices and the VAT Reduction: (No Word yet from QPR)
QPR's draw moves them up to 9th in the table. QPR have now not scored away in the League, since....September! (Last goal at Norwich, September 17) - and have scored two away goals all season. (Wolves, by contrast, have scored 23 away goals!)...Reminder: The FA Cup Third Round Draw being made later today:(2:15pm GMT)
The Times/Barry Flatman - Paulo Sousa acclimatises for QPR
After little more than a week in charge of QPR, life for Paulo Sousa is still very much about acclimatising to the Championship way of doing things after living most of his competitive life amongst the game's elite. Yet his team nearly did enough to make the words of Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan sound ill judged.
Jordan has never been a man who reacts favorably when others offer observations on how his own club is run but he saw fit to question the appointment of the Portuguese whose former clubs number Sporting Lisbon, Benfica, Juventus, Inter Milan, Palma and Borussia Dortmund. "He knows next to nothing about the Championship which is a very specific league," maintained the Palace chairman.
Sousa is wise enough not involve himself in an argument but he seems a man ready to learn. After just three training sessions and having picked the side for two matches, he can look back on a return of four points and if loan signing Heidar Helguson had been a little sharper when presented with a gilt edged opportunity immediately after his half-time introduction, Jordan would really have something to complain about.
As it is QPR still possess the most horrendous goal scoring record away from home in the Football League and are now just 11 minutes of play away from having gone ten hours on their travels without scoring a goal. Sousa knows that is one of the first things that must change under his tenure but he said: "Of course this level is different to what I am used to working with. The English style is quick with high intensity and I need to adapt.
"Hopefully I will give confidence to the players and that will create more scoring chances. This team will grow and develop in the future and we will have more opportunities."
Helguson's last piece of action for Bolton Wanderers was a half hour run out as a substitute on September 13, four days before QPR scored their last away league goal at Norwich. The Icelandic international had made just one token touch in midfield when the ball was laid into his path by the willing Patrick Agyemang and unimpaired by any defensive change he advanced on the Palace goal only to blaze his shot agonisingly wide.
Such gifts have been rare for QPR of late as they have now gone six away games with a goal, let alone a win. Nevertheless they left with an air of contentment. Palace after all have been something of a form team of late and had been thwarted in their attempt to register a fourth win in succession. Still manager Neil Warnock maintained: "I cannot fault anybody and overall I am quite pleased with the way we played."
Crystal Palace: Speroni 6, Clyne 7, McCarthy 6, Fonte 6, Hill 6, Oster 5, Watson 7, Carle 5 (sub. Derry 62 mins 7), Ifill 5 (sub. Kuqi 62 mins 7), Scannell 6 (sub. Griffit 86 mins 5), Beattie 6.
QPR: Cerny 6, Ramage 6, Stewart 8, Gorkss 6, Delaney 5, Ephraim 6, Leigertwood 7, Mahon 6, Parejo 4 (sub Helguson HT 5), Blackstock 6 (sub. Rowlands 56 mins 6), Agyemang 7 (sub. Di Carmine 90 mins 5)
Star player: Damion Stewart (QPR)
Attendance: 16,411 The Times
QPR Official Site - The Gaffer STEADY GROWTH
Paulo Sousa was pleased with the effort and commitment of his players as they gained a point at in-form Crystal Palace this afternoon.
-Heidar Helguson came on in the second-half to make his R's debut following his loan arrival from Bolton, and he could have given his new team the lead with his very first touch.
His effort whizzed wide of the right-hand post, however, and Sousa told www.qpr.co.uk: "Up until that point I felt we were in control of the match.
"We had other chances as well, but that was the most clear-cut.
"I am very proud of my team. It is not easy for them to adapt to new ideas, especially in such a short space of time, but I am very happy with them."
Sousa reserved special praise for his new striker, explaining: "Heidar came in and has had only one training session with us, so to do as well as he did today shows me that he can become an important player for us.
"One of my aims is to give my players confidence, because I know they are good footballers. And the best way to gain confidence is by winning matches.
"My feeling is that we are now creating more and more chances in front of goal, and as the team grows together I am confident that we will continue to do better and better. I am very sure about that, I have no doubts.
With the January transfer window just around the corner, Sousa added: "Together we will make decisions about what is best to do. We will look for the correct players to improve the squad." QPR
SPORTING LIFE -WARNOCK TARGET PLAY-OFFS
Neil Warnock hopes history can repeat itself and Crystal Palace can stage a late Championship promotion charge after watching his team earn a goalless draw at home to QPR.
- The Eagles stretched their unbeaten run to three games against their local rivals at a wet and freezing Selhurst Park on Saturday.
Craig Beattie came close to snatching a precious win for the hosts in stoppage time when his low shot was spilled by goalkeeper Radek Cerny, but in truth this was a game neither side deserved to win.
Palace are just two points off the top six, despite slipping to 13th in the table following this stalemate.
Warnock led the south Londoners to the play-offs last term, having taken over when they were languishing in the relegation zone, and he is convinced his young side can challenge again.
"It was about this time last year that we started our run, and that came after a home draw against QPR as well," he said.
"I think it's well within our reach to do the same this season.
"Clubs like QPR have got the finances but we've got the squad and the management to get there so I'm sure we can play a part.
"We're working very hard and are just starting to get things together. We're looking to win games away from home and while we'll make mistakes I think we can still be very optimistic.
"I don't set targets as such but realistically, we want to be one of the teams who are up there at the end of the season.
"We've got some momentum going now and we're playing quite well now. I certainly wouldn't want to play us at the minute."
New QPR manager Paulo Sousa admitted the match was a far cry from his halcyon days as a player, which included Champions League triumphs with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund.
But the Portuguese maintained he was proud of his side's efforts and believes they would have been celebrating their first away win since September had loan signing Heidar Helguson not sliced wide of an open goal from 30 yards early in the second half.
"Of course this sort of game is different - a very different style to the places I played," Sousa said.
"Everything is different but I am already adjusting to it.
"I think we controlled the game and we had a clear chance to win it with Helguson, but we couldn't take it.
"I am proud of the side because we have changed our ideas and way of playing in just a few training sessions and that is difficult to do.
"We have made a big jump and we are in a good way. I hope in the next game that we can go one better and win the match.
"The team is growing and developing. In the future, I hope we will be better and have more quality in games like this. I am sure about that." Sporting Life
Crystal Palace Official Site - Warnock Happy With Battling Spirit
Neil Warnock praised his team's battling spirit after drawing to Paulo Sousa's QPR at Selhurst Park.
"They were a tough side and the way they played you were not going to get any fluent football. It was very cramped and we had to be a bit patient but overall I am quite pleased after a hard week. To get seven points from three games is very good."
After a hard week the manager is hoping to be able to pick from a full strength squad when the Eagles travel to Pride Park next Saturday.
"Now we have got a week to get rid of the aching bones and whatever and look forward to next weekends game against Derby. We will have a few playing in the reserves next week. Danny Butterfield, Alan Lee and possibly James Scowcroft so it will be nice to have a near full squad to choose from."
The Eagles stuck with a pretty much-unchanged side for the QPR encounter, which meant both Shaun Derry and Matt Lawrence were kept on the bench.
"I am not really a tinker and I like to stay with the team if they have done well. I cannot fault anyone this week and today I thought we were solid at the back against a mobile side.
"Even Derry yesterday when I told him that he would not be starting said that he could not complain as the midfield three have been doing really well, so that is the spirit at the minute."
One of those midfielders was man of the match winner John Oster who has certainly come into a bit of form of late with two goals in his last three games, a change that Warnock has certainly been aware of.
"John has been playing ever so well, I told him three weeks ago before he was in the team that I would be extending his contract until the end of the season and since I told him he has been a breath of fresh air."
Nathanial Clyne played his third game in succession and the manager was quick to praise the product from the youth academy.
"He played very well today barring a few mistakes. I told him at half-time not to be afraid of making a mistake and what I love about him is he plays the game simple. When the pass is on to go wide he plays it, if he needs to lay it to the central midfielder he does it. Playing simple is the hardest thing to do and he does it so well." Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace Official Site
Crystal Palace have been held to a 0-0 draw by QPR in a game that will be remembered more for the fourth official, who was to replace the linesman, taking a couple of minutes to warm up along the touch line than any actual moments from the match.
But Neil Warnock will be encouraged by clean sheet, the first in three games, as well as compact performance against a QPR side that would have been buoyed by the arrival of their new manager.
In the first half, Palace were much the better side, patiently building up play in a bid to find a small gap between QPR's water tight lines.
The home side recorded their first chance with only three minutes on the clock when Craig Beattie found himself free inside the box, on a tight angle, 15 yards from goal. Receiving the ball to his feet he swivelled and attempted a curled effort to the far post, but the keeper saved comfortably.
QPR responded five minutes later with a half chance from Real Madrid starlet Daniel Parejo when he connected with a Patrick Agyemang cross to flick the ball across goal. But he would have been disappointed had he known the amount of space he actually had to maybe have taken a touch.
Palace continued to dominate but their chances were kept at a premium. Ben Watson's 14th minute low shot was the closest of the early exchanges when he found himself in space, 20 yards from goal and drilled in a shot that ran just wide of the post.
While Paul Ifill came even closer in the 41st when he worked some space for himself just inside the box and smashed a low drive that hit the post.
The second half began in the most memorable of circumstances as QPR substitute Heider Helguson missed the chance of the season when he played the ball wide of an open goal. It was as bad as it sounds. Speroni had come out to close the angle when Helguson was put through but, as he rounded the Palace keeper, he screwed his shot from 18 yards past the post.
A scare for Palace but a sign for things to come because they came out to the second half a changed side. Much more nervous and disjointed, they failed to impose themselves on the early exchanges and QPR pushed in search of a breakthrough.
On 50 minutes, full back Peter Ramage ghosted in round the back of the Eagles defence to connect with a deep cross but his left footed volley, with the inside of his boot, looped on to the top of the net.
Blackstock then came close five minutes later when he squirmed away from his two markers on the edge of the box to shoot low to the near post however Speroni saved down to his left.
And the bad spell continued into the hour mark as substitute Martin Rowlands was allowed way too much space outside the area to measure up a shot from 20 yards. Luckily for the home side though the midfielder dragged his shot wide.
Changes needed to be made and Neil Warnock obliged with the introduction of Shaun Derry, who took the captain's armband from Clint Hill, and Shefki Kuqi.
And the big man up front had an immediate impact as his size and, surprisingly, his pace began to cause the QPR defence some problems.
On 71 minutes Kuqi forged his first chance when he connected with a superb John Oster cross. But the ball was slightly behind him and he had to reach behind himself to get a header away, which meant the effort was weak and Cerny gathered.
Nathanial Clyne, who was making his third consecutive appearance in a Palace shirt, had again impressed all afternoon with his defensive play. But, in 72nd minute, he almost had an assist to his name when he put in a brilliant whipped cross for Sean Scannell. However the winger could not direct his header on goal and it flew harmlessly wide.
The game then entered into a dull period where both sides failed to get a grip on play and it only came back into life in the five minutes of stoppage time when Craig Beattie had a great chance to win it late on.
Slipped through the QPR defence by a great pass from substitue Leandre Griffit, on the outside of the box he shot across the keeper, who saved down to his right. But the ball slipped out of his hands and Kuqi tried to follow up but the defender did enough to hold him back as Cerny kicked it away.
It was to be the final chance of the game and referee Rob Styles blew up for full time soon after.
Stay with cpfc.co.uk for Neil Warnock's post-match press conference. The full press conference will be posted later exclusively on Palace World. To sign up for World click on the link below.
Join Palace World
Att: 16,411 (1,731 away)
Team News
At a glance: Paul Ifill is preferred to Shefki Kuqi in an otherwise unchange line up from Tuesday night's victory away at Carrow Road. One notable inclusion on the bench is that of winger Leandre Griffit who make a return from injury.
Crystal Palace - 1. Julian Speroni, 3. Clint Hill (c), 5. Paddy McCarthy, 6. Jose Fonte, 10. Nick Carle (4.Shaun Derry, 64), 14. Sean Scannell (27. Leandre Griffit, 86) 19. Craig Beattie, 23. Paul Ifill (32. Shefki Kuqi, 64), 24. Ben Watson, 26.John Oster, 43.Nathanial Clyne.
Subs- 2.Matt Lawrence, 11.Victor Moses
QPR - 24. Radek Cerny, 2. Damien Delany, 3. Damion Stewart, 4. Gavin Mahon (c), 6. Mikele Leigertwood, 7. Daniel Parejo (27. Heider Helguson, 45), 9. Dexter Blackstock (14. Martin Rowlands, 58), 11. Patrick Agyemang (22. Samuel Di Carmine, 90 +1), 13. Kaspar Gorkss, 15. Peter Ramage, 25. Hogan Ephraim
Subs - 23. Jake Cole, 29. Gary Borrowdale Crystal Palace
QPR Official Site
QPR finished their London derby trilogy by holding Crystal Palace to an uninspiring 0-0 draw at a wet and cold Selhurst Park.
In a game of few chances, the match was summed up by new striker Heidar Helguson missing an open goal, and the R's testing home keeper Julian Speroni just once through Patrick Agyemang.
Palace enjoyed most of the possession but they themselves only tested Radek Cerny in the Rangers goal a handful of times, most notably from Paul Ifill.
But neither side could make the breakthrough during the 90 minutes and the R's completed the set, adding a draw to their win and loss from the last two games.
For Part Three of the trilogy, Manager Paulo Sousa made one change to his starting eleven. Damiano Tommasi made way for Gavin Mahon at the base of the midfield diamond.
The bench however, was given a dramatic makeover, as Martin Rowlands returned to the First Team squad. He was joined by new loan signings Helguson and ex-Eagle Gary Borrowdale.
The home side handed starts to youngsters Nathaniel Clyne and Sean Scannell, whilst on-loan Craig Beattie started up front looking to continue his fine goalscoring form.
And it was Beattie who had the match's opening effort. Ben Watson found the on-loan Baggie with a pass inside and the striker took a touch before firing into the arms of Radek Cerny, giving the R's an early warning.
That warning was not heeded and Rangers struggled to assert their own influence on the match. Palace by contrast were enjoying the majority of possession and Watson saw a 25-yard low drive fly wide of Cerny's right-hand post.
Palace threatened again as John Oster released Scannell down the right. The prospect jinked his way past Delaney and fired a low cross that Cerny did well to collect.
Rangers finally threatened the home defence but when Dexter Blackstock knocked down a lofted pass into the path of Agyemang, the pacy striker could not garner enough power on his volley attempt, and Speroni saved comfortably.
After scoring a wonderful goal in his previous game, Oster tried again with a chip from the edge of the box. Fortunately for the R's, Cerny was wise to it and took the catch with ease.
Palace were by now firmly in control, and Nick Carle was the latest Eagle to try his luck, curling a left-footed effort towards goal that took a deflection on its way wide.
Agyemang was looking a real handful, operating down the left side. Damion Stewart's long pass was expertly controlled by the hitman, before a burst of pace and strength held off Clyne as he drove into the Palace box. Speroni, however, was off his line quickly to smother before Agyemang could cross.
A brief lull was shattered by a venomous strike from Ifill that needed a solid two-handed save at his near-post from Cerny. It looked like it could've gone wide but the Czech custodian was alert and made sure with a fine save.
Manager Sousa made one change at halftime. Helguson replaced Daniel Parejo and should've made an instant impact.
When a long ball forward towards Agyemang saw Speroni try and clear the danger, the Ghanaian managed to touch the ball into the path of the man making his debut. But with the goal gaping he only managed to side-foot the ball wide of the open goal.
Rangers had come out of the dressing room in determined fashion and Mikele Leigertwood tried his luck after cutting in from the left. His well struck shot, however, was comfortably saved, low to his right, by Speroni.
Minutes before the hour, the impressive Rangers following were treated to a welcome sight, as Rowlands emerged from the bench to mark his return from injury by replacing Blackstock.
The introduction of the talismanic Rowlands did little to shift the momentum of the match as first Palace substitute Shefki Kuqi, and then Scannell went close with headed chances.
Despite both sides enjoying spells of possession and briefly threatening, neither could beat Cerny or Speroni in their respective goals and the score remained 0-0, keeping alive Manager Sousa's unbeaten start as gaffer.
Attendance: 16,411 QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard...Among the articles posted there:
- Forty Years Ago Today, after 28 days in charge, "The Doc" (Tommy Docherty) Quit as QPR Manager
- The Continued Attraction of English Football
- Continuing Sports (not football specific) in the age of Terrorism
- Football Clubs Prices and the VAT Reduction: (No Word yet from QPR)
QPR's draw moves them up to 9th in the table. QPR have now not scored away in the League, since....September! (Last goal at Norwich, September 17) - and have scored two away goals all season. (Wolves, by contrast, have scored 23 away goals!)...Reminder: The FA Cup Third Round Draw being made later today:(2:15pm GMT)
The Times/Barry Flatman - Paulo Sousa acclimatises for QPR
After little more than a week in charge of QPR, life for Paulo Sousa is still very much about acclimatising to the Championship way of doing things after living most of his competitive life amongst the game's elite. Yet his team nearly did enough to make the words of Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan sound ill judged.
Jordan has never been a man who reacts favorably when others offer observations on how his own club is run but he saw fit to question the appointment of the Portuguese whose former clubs number Sporting Lisbon, Benfica, Juventus, Inter Milan, Palma and Borussia Dortmund. "He knows next to nothing about the Championship which is a very specific league," maintained the Palace chairman.
Sousa is wise enough not involve himself in an argument but he seems a man ready to learn. After just three training sessions and having picked the side for two matches, he can look back on a return of four points and if loan signing Heidar Helguson had been a little sharper when presented with a gilt edged opportunity immediately after his half-time introduction, Jordan would really have something to complain about.
As it is QPR still possess the most horrendous goal scoring record away from home in the Football League and are now just 11 minutes of play away from having gone ten hours on their travels without scoring a goal. Sousa knows that is one of the first things that must change under his tenure but he said: "Of course this level is different to what I am used to working with. The English style is quick with high intensity and I need to adapt.
"Hopefully I will give confidence to the players and that will create more scoring chances. This team will grow and develop in the future and we will have more opportunities."
Helguson's last piece of action for Bolton Wanderers was a half hour run out as a substitute on September 13, four days before QPR scored their last away league goal at Norwich. The Icelandic international had made just one token touch in midfield when the ball was laid into his path by the willing Patrick Agyemang and unimpaired by any defensive change he advanced on the Palace goal only to blaze his shot agonisingly wide.
Such gifts have been rare for QPR of late as they have now gone six away games with a goal, let alone a win. Nevertheless they left with an air of contentment. Palace after all have been something of a form team of late and had been thwarted in their attempt to register a fourth win in succession. Still manager Neil Warnock maintained: "I cannot fault anybody and overall I am quite pleased with the way we played."
Crystal Palace: Speroni 6, Clyne 7, McCarthy 6, Fonte 6, Hill 6, Oster 5, Watson 7, Carle 5 (sub. Derry 62 mins 7), Ifill 5 (sub. Kuqi 62 mins 7), Scannell 6 (sub. Griffit 86 mins 5), Beattie 6.
QPR: Cerny 6, Ramage 6, Stewart 8, Gorkss 6, Delaney 5, Ephraim 6, Leigertwood 7, Mahon 6, Parejo 4 (sub Helguson HT 5), Blackstock 6 (sub. Rowlands 56 mins 6), Agyemang 7 (sub. Di Carmine 90 mins 5)
Star player: Damion Stewart (QPR)
Attendance: 16,411 The Times
QPR Official Site - The Gaffer STEADY GROWTH
Paulo Sousa was pleased with the effort and commitment of his players as they gained a point at in-form Crystal Palace this afternoon.
-Heidar Helguson came on in the second-half to make his R's debut following his loan arrival from Bolton, and he could have given his new team the lead with his very first touch.
His effort whizzed wide of the right-hand post, however, and Sousa told www.qpr.co.uk: "Up until that point I felt we were in control of the match.
"We had other chances as well, but that was the most clear-cut.
"I am very proud of my team. It is not easy for them to adapt to new ideas, especially in such a short space of time, but I am very happy with them."
Sousa reserved special praise for his new striker, explaining: "Heidar came in and has had only one training session with us, so to do as well as he did today shows me that he can become an important player for us.
"One of my aims is to give my players confidence, because I know they are good footballers. And the best way to gain confidence is by winning matches.
"My feeling is that we are now creating more and more chances in front of goal, and as the team grows together I am confident that we will continue to do better and better. I am very sure about that, I have no doubts.
With the January transfer window just around the corner, Sousa added: "Together we will make decisions about what is best to do. We will look for the correct players to improve the squad." QPR
SPORTING LIFE -WARNOCK TARGET PLAY-OFFS
Neil Warnock hopes history can repeat itself and Crystal Palace can stage a late Championship promotion charge after watching his team earn a goalless draw at home to QPR.
- The Eagles stretched their unbeaten run to three games against their local rivals at a wet and freezing Selhurst Park on Saturday.
Craig Beattie came close to snatching a precious win for the hosts in stoppage time when his low shot was spilled by goalkeeper Radek Cerny, but in truth this was a game neither side deserved to win.
Palace are just two points off the top six, despite slipping to 13th in the table following this stalemate.
Warnock led the south Londoners to the play-offs last term, having taken over when they were languishing in the relegation zone, and he is convinced his young side can challenge again.
"It was about this time last year that we started our run, and that came after a home draw against QPR as well," he said.
"I think it's well within our reach to do the same this season.
"Clubs like QPR have got the finances but we've got the squad and the management to get there so I'm sure we can play a part.
"We're working very hard and are just starting to get things together. We're looking to win games away from home and while we'll make mistakes I think we can still be very optimistic.
"I don't set targets as such but realistically, we want to be one of the teams who are up there at the end of the season.
"We've got some momentum going now and we're playing quite well now. I certainly wouldn't want to play us at the minute."
New QPR manager Paulo Sousa admitted the match was a far cry from his halcyon days as a player, which included Champions League triumphs with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund.
But the Portuguese maintained he was proud of his side's efforts and believes they would have been celebrating their first away win since September had loan signing Heidar Helguson not sliced wide of an open goal from 30 yards early in the second half.
"Of course this sort of game is different - a very different style to the places I played," Sousa said.
"Everything is different but I am already adjusting to it.
"I think we controlled the game and we had a clear chance to win it with Helguson, but we couldn't take it.
"I am proud of the side because we have changed our ideas and way of playing in just a few training sessions and that is difficult to do.
"We have made a big jump and we are in a good way. I hope in the next game that we can go one better and win the match.
"The team is growing and developing. In the future, I hope we will be better and have more quality in games like this. I am sure about that." Sporting Life
Crystal Palace Official Site - Warnock Happy With Battling Spirit
Neil Warnock praised his team's battling spirit after drawing to Paulo Sousa's QPR at Selhurst Park.
"They were a tough side and the way they played you were not going to get any fluent football. It was very cramped and we had to be a bit patient but overall I am quite pleased after a hard week. To get seven points from three games is very good."
After a hard week the manager is hoping to be able to pick from a full strength squad when the Eagles travel to Pride Park next Saturday.
"Now we have got a week to get rid of the aching bones and whatever and look forward to next weekends game against Derby. We will have a few playing in the reserves next week. Danny Butterfield, Alan Lee and possibly James Scowcroft so it will be nice to have a near full squad to choose from."
The Eagles stuck with a pretty much-unchanged side for the QPR encounter, which meant both Shaun Derry and Matt Lawrence were kept on the bench.
"I am not really a tinker and I like to stay with the team if they have done well. I cannot fault anyone this week and today I thought we were solid at the back against a mobile side.
"Even Derry yesterday when I told him that he would not be starting said that he could not complain as the midfield three have been doing really well, so that is the spirit at the minute."
One of those midfielders was man of the match winner John Oster who has certainly come into a bit of form of late with two goals in his last three games, a change that Warnock has certainly been aware of.
"John has been playing ever so well, I told him three weeks ago before he was in the team that I would be extending his contract until the end of the season and since I told him he has been a breath of fresh air."
Nathanial Clyne played his third game in succession and the manager was quick to praise the product from the youth academy.
"He played very well today barring a few mistakes. I told him at half-time not to be afraid of making a mistake and what I love about him is he plays the game simple. When the pass is on to go wide he plays it, if he needs to lay it to the central midfielder he does it. Playing simple is the hardest thing to do and he does it so well." Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace Official Site
Crystal Palace have been held to a 0-0 draw by QPR in a game that will be remembered more for the fourth official, who was to replace the linesman, taking a couple of minutes to warm up along the touch line than any actual moments from the match.
But Neil Warnock will be encouraged by clean sheet, the first in three games, as well as compact performance against a QPR side that would have been buoyed by the arrival of their new manager.
In the first half, Palace were much the better side, patiently building up play in a bid to find a small gap between QPR's water tight lines.
The home side recorded their first chance with only three minutes on the clock when Craig Beattie found himself free inside the box, on a tight angle, 15 yards from goal. Receiving the ball to his feet he swivelled and attempted a curled effort to the far post, but the keeper saved comfortably.
QPR responded five minutes later with a half chance from Real Madrid starlet Daniel Parejo when he connected with a Patrick Agyemang cross to flick the ball across goal. But he would have been disappointed had he known the amount of space he actually had to maybe have taken a touch.
Palace continued to dominate but their chances were kept at a premium. Ben Watson's 14th minute low shot was the closest of the early exchanges when he found himself in space, 20 yards from goal and drilled in a shot that ran just wide of the post.
While Paul Ifill came even closer in the 41st when he worked some space for himself just inside the box and smashed a low drive that hit the post.
The second half began in the most memorable of circumstances as QPR substitute Heider Helguson missed the chance of the season when he played the ball wide of an open goal. It was as bad as it sounds. Speroni had come out to close the angle when Helguson was put through but, as he rounded the Palace keeper, he screwed his shot from 18 yards past the post.
A scare for Palace but a sign for things to come because they came out to the second half a changed side. Much more nervous and disjointed, they failed to impose themselves on the early exchanges and QPR pushed in search of a breakthrough.
On 50 minutes, full back Peter Ramage ghosted in round the back of the Eagles defence to connect with a deep cross but his left footed volley, with the inside of his boot, looped on to the top of the net.
Blackstock then came close five minutes later when he squirmed away from his two markers on the edge of the box to shoot low to the near post however Speroni saved down to his left.
And the bad spell continued into the hour mark as substitute Martin Rowlands was allowed way too much space outside the area to measure up a shot from 20 yards. Luckily for the home side though the midfielder dragged his shot wide.
Changes needed to be made and Neil Warnock obliged with the introduction of Shaun Derry, who took the captain's armband from Clint Hill, and Shefki Kuqi.
And the big man up front had an immediate impact as his size and, surprisingly, his pace began to cause the QPR defence some problems.
On 71 minutes Kuqi forged his first chance when he connected with a superb John Oster cross. But the ball was slightly behind him and he had to reach behind himself to get a header away, which meant the effort was weak and Cerny gathered.
Nathanial Clyne, who was making his third consecutive appearance in a Palace shirt, had again impressed all afternoon with his defensive play. But, in 72nd minute, he almost had an assist to his name when he put in a brilliant whipped cross for Sean Scannell. However the winger could not direct his header on goal and it flew harmlessly wide.
The game then entered into a dull period where both sides failed to get a grip on play and it only came back into life in the five minutes of stoppage time when Craig Beattie had a great chance to win it late on.
Slipped through the QPR defence by a great pass from substitue Leandre Griffit, on the outside of the box he shot across the keeper, who saved down to his right. But the ball slipped out of his hands and Kuqi tried to follow up but the defender did enough to hold him back as Cerny kicked it away.
It was to be the final chance of the game and referee Rob Styles blew up for full time soon after.
Stay with cpfc.co.uk for Neil Warnock's post-match press conference. The full press conference will be posted later exclusively on Palace World. To sign up for World click on the link below.
Join Palace World
Att: 16,411 (1,731 away)
Team News
At a glance: Paul Ifill is preferred to Shefki Kuqi in an otherwise unchange line up from Tuesday night's victory away at Carrow Road. One notable inclusion on the bench is that of winger Leandre Griffit who make a return from injury.
Crystal Palace - 1. Julian Speroni, 3. Clint Hill (c), 5. Paddy McCarthy, 6. Jose Fonte, 10. Nick Carle (4.Shaun Derry, 64), 14. Sean Scannell (27. Leandre Griffit, 86) 19. Craig Beattie, 23. Paul Ifill (32. Shefki Kuqi, 64), 24. Ben Watson, 26.John Oster, 43.Nathanial Clyne.
Subs- 2.Matt Lawrence, 11.Victor Moses
QPR - 24. Radek Cerny, 2. Damien Delany, 3. Damion Stewart, 4. Gavin Mahon (c), 6. Mikele Leigertwood, 7. Daniel Parejo (27. Heider Helguson, 45), 9. Dexter Blackstock (14. Martin Rowlands, 58), 11. Patrick Agyemang (22. Samuel Di Carmine, 90 +1), 13. Kaspar Gorkss, 15. Peter Ramage, 25. Hogan Ephraim
Subs - 23. Jake Cole, 29. Gary Borrowdale Crystal Palace
QPR Official Site
QPR finished their London derby trilogy by holding Crystal Palace to an uninspiring 0-0 draw at a wet and cold Selhurst Park.
In a game of few chances, the match was summed up by new striker Heidar Helguson missing an open goal, and the R's testing home keeper Julian Speroni just once through Patrick Agyemang.
Palace enjoyed most of the possession but they themselves only tested Radek Cerny in the Rangers goal a handful of times, most notably from Paul Ifill.
But neither side could make the breakthrough during the 90 minutes and the R's completed the set, adding a draw to their win and loss from the last two games.
For Part Three of the trilogy, Manager Paulo Sousa made one change to his starting eleven. Damiano Tommasi made way for Gavin Mahon at the base of the midfield diamond.
The bench however, was given a dramatic makeover, as Martin Rowlands returned to the First Team squad. He was joined by new loan signings Helguson and ex-Eagle Gary Borrowdale.
The home side handed starts to youngsters Nathaniel Clyne and Sean Scannell, whilst on-loan Craig Beattie started up front looking to continue his fine goalscoring form.
And it was Beattie who had the match's opening effort. Ben Watson found the on-loan Baggie with a pass inside and the striker took a touch before firing into the arms of Radek Cerny, giving the R's an early warning.
That warning was not heeded and Rangers struggled to assert their own influence on the match. Palace by contrast were enjoying the majority of possession and Watson saw a 25-yard low drive fly wide of Cerny's right-hand post.
Palace threatened again as John Oster released Scannell down the right. The prospect jinked his way past Delaney and fired a low cross that Cerny did well to collect.
Rangers finally threatened the home defence but when Dexter Blackstock knocked down a lofted pass into the path of Agyemang, the pacy striker could not garner enough power on his volley attempt, and Speroni saved comfortably.
After scoring a wonderful goal in his previous game, Oster tried again with a chip from the edge of the box. Fortunately for the R's, Cerny was wise to it and took the catch with ease.
Palace were by now firmly in control, and Nick Carle was the latest Eagle to try his luck, curling a left-footed effort towards goal that took a deflection on its way wide.
Agyemang was looking a real handful, operating down the left side. Damion Stewart's long pass was expertly controlled by the hitman, before a burst of pace and strength held off Clyne as he drove into the Palace box. Speroni, however, was off his line quickly to smother before Agyemang could cross.
A brief lull was shattered by a venomous strike from Ifill that needed a solid two-handed save at his near-post from Cerny. It looked like it could've gone wide but the Czech custodian was alert and made sure with a fine save.
Manager Sousa made one change at halftime. Helguson replaced Daniel Parejo and should've made an instant impact.
When a long ball forward towards Agyemang saw Speroni try and clear the danger, the Ghanaian managed to touch the ball into the path of the man making his debut. But with the goal gaping he only managed to side-foot the ball wide of the open goal.
Rangers had come out of the dressing room in determined fashion and Mikele Leigertwood tried his luck after cutting in from the left. His well struck shot, however, was comfortably saved, low to his right, by Speroni.
Minutes before the hour, the impressive Rangers following were treated to a welcome sight, as Rowlands emerged from the bench to mark his return from injury by replacing Blackstock.
The introduction of the talismanic Rowlands did little to shift the momentum of the match as first Palace substitute Shefki Kuqi, and then Scannell went close with headed chances.
Despite both sides enjoying spells of possession and briefly threatening, neither could beat Cerny or Speroni in their respective goals and the score remained 0-0, keeping alive Manager Sousa's unbeaten start as gaffer.
Attendance: 16,411 QPR
Teams for Crystal Palace vs QPR....Previewing Crystal Palace vs QPR
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Ostensibly Watch Livestreaming of the game (Perhaps not holding your breath)!
Today's Teams:
Crystal Palace - 1. Julian Speroni, 3. Clint Hill (c), 5. Paddy McCarthy, 6. Jose Fonte, 10. Nick Carle, 14. Sean Scannell, 19. Craig Beattie, 23. Paul Ifill, 24. Ben Watson, 26.John Oster, 43.Nathanial Clyne.
Subs- 2.Matt Lawrence, 4.Shaun Derry, 11.Victor Moses, 27. Leandre Griffit, 32. Shefki Kuqi
QPR - 24. Radek Cerny, 2. Damien Delany, 3. Damion Stewart, 4. Gavin Mahon (c), 6. Mikele Leigertwood, 7. Daniel Parejo, 9. Dexter Blackstock, 11. Patrick Agyemang, 13. Kaspar Gorkss, 15. Peter Ramage, 25. Hogan Ephraim
Subs - 14. Martin Rowlands, 22. Samuel Di Carmine, 23. Jake Cole, 27. Heider Helguson, 29. Gary Borrowdale
- Crystal Palace take on QPR today. Ninteen years ago, a just-appointed Don Howe and a just-signed Ray Wilkins led a QPR to a 3-0 away win at Palace. If QPR get even a point today, they'll have done well.
- Over the years, numerous Crystal Palace players have played for QPR; and some of the other way: Off the cuff: Mark Lazarus; Terry Venables and Ian Evans who were swopped to Palace in 1974 in exchange for an aging Don Rogers. A few months later, QPR, under Dave Sexton tried to buy back Venables. Others: When Venables came to QPR as manager (from Palace, bringing with him coaches Alan Harris and George Graham) they also signed: Burridge, Fenwick, Flangan, Sealy and ex QPRs, Clive Allen, Steve Wicks and Gerry Francis. And then over the years an array of former Palace players have spent some time at QPR.
Crystal Palace Official Site Next Up...QPR
- With a new man in charge, QPR are a team with new direction and refreshed vigour. A win midweek against Charlton did its best to halt the steady fall away from the top of the table, while also taking the pressure away from Paulo Sousa, the Portuguese legend now in charge at Loftus Road.
- It has so far been a season of inconsistency as, from home they are looking comfortable, with seven wins from ten suggesting as such and 16 goals scored also suggesting that they are not short of confidence going forward. However, away from home they are a completely different proposition, with only one win on record so far.
- Even more of a concern is their goal scoring form on the road, with only two goals in their For column sitting as an impoverished sum against a relatively obese 11 goals conceded.
- Palace, on the other hand, are very much the form team. Three wins out of four and nine goals scored, Neil Warnock's men are full of confidence and will be eager to continue their unbeaten run.
- Team News :
Palace - Alan Lee and James Scowcroft are close to return and are expected to feature next week in the Reserve fixture against Reading, while Danny Butterfield (hamstring) is expected to be out of contention for a third game.
Shaun Derry has recovered from the illness that kept him out of last weekend's match and will by vying for a place in the starting line-up.
QPR - Emmanuel Ledesma (5 yellows - one game) and Fitz Hall (second of three game) are suspended.
Matthew Connolly and Lee Cook remain doubts, with back and knee injuries respectively.
Previous League Encounters :
Football League Championship
2007/2008
Queen's Park Rangers 1-2 Crystal Palace 04-12-2007
Crystal Palace 1-1 Queen's Park Rangers 10-11-2007
2006/2007
Crystal Palace 3-0 Queen's Park Rangers 02-12-2006
Queen's Park Rangers 4-2 Crystal Palace 04-11-2006
2005/2006
Crystal Palace 2-1 Queen's Park Rangers 14-02-2006
Ticket Information
Main Stand Adults £40, £23 Concessions
Croydon Ad Stand and Family Stand Block J £30 Sen Citz £18 Juveniles £13
Arthur Wait Stand - Holmesdale Lower Adults £30 Concessions £18
Holmesdale Upper Tier Adults £35 Concessions £18
Gallery Adults £37 Senior Citizens £20.
Betting
Crystal Palace are 21/20 to win the match. Check out all the odds with Bet 365 and to place your bet CLICK HERE.
Match Officials
Referee: Mr R Styles
Asst Referees : Mr M Murphy & Mr A Watts
4th Official: Mr K Wright Crystal Palace
See also:
- QPR Report: Next Crystal Palace vs QPR
- Ron Norris/Simon Skinner - QPRNet Palace vs QPR Preview
- Ashleigh Rose/LoftforWords - Crystal Palace vs QPR: Connections Memories
Visit QPR Report Messageboard
Ostensibly Watch Livestreaming of the game (Perhaps not holding your breath)!
Today's Teams:
Crystal Palace - 1. Julian Speroni, 3. Clint Hill (c), 5. Paddy McCarthy, 6. Jose Fonte, 10. Nick Carle, 14. Sean Scannell, 19. Craig Beattie, 23. Paul Ifill, 24. Ben Watson, 26.John Oster, 43.Nathanial Clyne.
Subs- 2.Matt Lawrence, 4.Shaun Derry, 11.Victor Moses, 27. Leandre Griffit, 32. Shefki Kuqi
QPR - 24. Radek Cerny, 2. Damien Delany, 3. Damion Stewart, 4. Gavin Mahon (c), 6. Mikele Leigertwood, 7. Daniel Parejo, 9. Dexter Blackstock, 11. Patrick Agyemang, 13. Kaspar Gorkss, 15. Peter Ramage, 25. Hogan Ephraim
Subs - 14. Martin Rowlands, 22. Samuel Di Carmine, 23. Jake Cole, 27. Heider Helguson, 29. Gary Borrowdale
- Crystal Palace take on QPR today. Ninteen years ago, a just-appointed Don Howe and a just-signed Ray Wilkins led a QPR to a 3-0 away win at Palace. If QPR get even a point today, they'll have done well.
- Over the years, numerous Crystal Palace players have played for QPR; and some of the other way: Off the cuff: Mark Lazarus; Terry Venables and Ian Evans who were swopped to Palace in 1974 in exchange for an aging Don Rogers. A few months later, QPR, under Dave Sexton tried to buy back Venables. Others: When Venables came to QPR as manager (from Palace, bringing with him coaches Alan Harris and George Graham) they also signed: Burridge, Fenwick, Flangan, Sealy and ex QPRs, Clive Allen, Steve Wicks and Gerry Francis. And then over the years an array of former Palace players have spent some time at QPR.
Crystal Palace Official Site Next Up...QPR
- With a new man in charge, QPR are a team with new direction and refreshed vigour. A win midweek against Charlton did its best to halt the steady fall away from the top of the table, while also taking the pressure away from Paulo Sousa, the Portuguese legend now in charge at Loftus Road.
- It has so far been a season of inconsistency as, from home they are looking comfortable, with seven wins from ten suggesting as such and 16 goals scored also suggesting that they are not short of confidence going forward. However, away from home they are a completely different proposition, with only one win on record so far.
- Even more of a concern is their goal scoring form on the road, with only two goals in their For column sitting as an impoverished sum against a relatively obese 11 goals conceded.
- Palace, on the other hand, are very much the form team. Three wins out of four and nine goals scored, Neil Warnock's men are full of confidence and will be eager to continue their unbeaten run.
- Team News :
Palace - Alan Lee and James Scowcroft are close to return and are expected to feature next week in the Reserve fixture against Reading, while Danny Butterfield (hamstring) is expected to be out of contention for a third game.
Shaun Derry has recovered from the illness that kept him out of last weekend's match and will by vying for a place in the starting line-up.
QPR - Emmanuel Ledesma (5 yellows - one game) and Fitz Hall (second of three game) are suspended.
Matthew Connolly and Lee Cook remain doubts, with back and knee injuries respectively.
Previous League Encounters :
Football League Championship
2007/2008
Queen's Park Rangers 1-2 Crystal Palace 04-12-2007
Crystal Palace 1-1 Queen's Park Rangers 10-11-2007
2006/2007
Crystal Palace 3-0 Queen's Park Rangers 02-12-2006
Queen's Park Rangers 4-2 Crystal Palace 04-11-2006
2005/2006
Crystal Palace 2-1 Queen's Park Rangers 14-02-2006
Ticket Information
Main Stand Adults £40, £23 Concessions
Croydon Ad Stand and Family Stand Block J £30 Sen Citz £18 Juveniles £13
Arthur Wait Stand - Holmesdale Lower Adults £30 Concessions £18
Holmesdale Upper Tier Adults £35 Concessions £18
Gallery Adults £37 Senior Citizens £20.
Betting
Crystal Palace are 21/20 to win the match. Check out all the odds with Bet 365 and to place your bet CLICK HERE.
Match Officials
Referee: Mr R Styles
Asst Referees : Mr M Murphy & Mr A Watts
4th Official: Mr K Wright Crystal Palace
See also:
- QPR Report: Next Crystal Palace vs QPR
- Ron Norris/Simon Skinner - QPRNet Palace vs QPR Preview
- Ashleigh Rose/LoftforWords - Crystal Palace vs QPR: Connections Memories
Visit QPR Report Messageboard
Friday, November 28, 2008
Snippets - "Flavio QPR Critic Unmasked"...Birmingham's Karen Brady on Briatore Involvement...Various Clubs VAT Price Reductions
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- See also QPR Report on Vital Football: Ten Days That Shook The World...
- Various Clubs Reducing Ticket or Shop prices because of the VAT Reduction (Growing List) - Clubs reducing Prices because of the VAT Cut.
Also on the QPR Report Messageboard::
- Watch (Maybe) Livestreaming Crystal Palace vs QPR
- Obituary for a QPR Supporter
- Some Possible Future England Stars-
- Remembering John Beck, whose Histon Team Takes on Leeds Today
- On This Date: NostalgiaA 6-4 loss to Bolton; Gavin Peacock's Debut...and beating Stoke with John Beck and Phil Nutt.
Daily Mail/Charles Sale - Flavio QPR critic unmasked
Lawyer Nick De Marco, former director and legal advisor at QPR who works as a sports specialist for the Blackstone Chambers, has revealed he was the author of the email sent to Rangers fans describing owner Flavio Briatore (left) as a 'dictator and a really nasty piece of work'.
De Marco had taken legal advice in a bid to prevent Sportsmail naming him when publishing the contents of his email last Saturday that urged QPR fans to use his inside information to stir up trouble.
But De Marco then admitted to Briatore that he was responsible for winding up the fans before confessing his role to three QPR websites. Mail
Birmingham's Karen Brady/The Sun "...SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23
"...WHERE players are concerned I regard myself as nothing more than a servant of the club and manager.
It’s the only subject on which I always do what I am told.
Some chairmen can’t resist being ‘helpful’ to managers. Another word might be ‘interfering’.
Barry Fry’s comment that our plc chairman David Sullivan “doesn’t know the difference between a goal-line and a clothes line” came back to me when I read that Flavio Briatore, the QPR chairman, handed a team selection to his manager with 13 players on it!
The Italian is also said to have called caretaker-boss Gareth Ainsworth 32 times in one match but Ainsworth had left his mobile on silent. Paulo Sousa is now the club’s eighth boss in two years. Sounds like the job from hell — even at £20,000 a week" The Sun
As always: Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
- See also QPR Report on Vital Football: Ten Days That Shook The World...
- Various Clubs Reducing Ticket or Shop prices because of the VAT Reduction (Growing List) - Clubs reducing Prices because of the VAT Cut.
Also on the QPR Report Messageboard::
- Watch (Maybe) Livestreaming Crystal Palace vs QPR
- Obituary for a QPR Supporter
- Some Possible Future England Stars-
- Remembering John Beck, whose Histon Team Takes on Leeds Today
- On This Date: NostalgiaA 6-4 loss to Bolton; Gavin Peacock's Debut...and beating Stoke with John Beck and Phil Nutt.
Daily Mail/Charles Sale - Flavio QPR critic unmasked
Lawyer Nick De Marco, former director and legal advisor at QPR who works as a sports specialist for the Blackstone Chambers, has revealed he was the author of the email sent to Rangers fans describing owner Flavio Briatore (left) as a 'dictator and a really nasty piece of work'.
De Marco had taken legal advice in a bid to prevent Sportsmail naming him when publishing the contents of his email last Saturday that urged QPR fans to use his inside information to stir up trouble.
But De Marco then admitted to Briatore that he was responsible for winding up the fans before confessing his role to three QPR websites. Mail
Birmingham's Karen Brady/The Sun "...SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23
"...WHERE players are concerned I regard myself as nothing more than a servant of the club and manager.
It’s the only subject on which I always do what I am told.
Some chairmen can’t resist being ‘helpful’ to managers. Another word might be ‘interfering’.
Barry Fry’s comment that our plc chairman David Sullivan “doesn’t know the difference between a goal-line and a clothes line” came back to me when I read that Flavio Briatore, the QPR chairman, handed a team selection to his manager with 13 players on it!
The Italian is also said to have called caretaker-boss Gareth Ainsworth 32 times in one match but Ainsworth had left his mobile on silent. Paulo Sousa is now the club’s eighth boss in two years. Sounds like the job from hell — even at £20,000 a week" The Sun
As always: Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
QPR: Ten Days That Shook The World
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QPR Report/Vital Football QPR - "Ten Days That Shook The World
- "QPR Report takes a look at the last ten days at the long running soap-opera that is Queens Park Rangers"
"OK. An extremely hyperbolic title! But it's certainly been quite an intense past ten days for followers of Queen's Park Rangers (QPR). Where to begin? On the managerial front..." For article, See: QPR Report/Vital Football "Ten Days That Shook The World"
- [Visit the QPR Report Messageboard]
QPR Report/Vital Football QPR - "Ten Days That Shook The World
- "QPR Report takes a look at the last ten days at the long running soap-opera that is Queens Park Rangers"
"OK. An extremely hyperbolic title! But it's certainly been quite an intense past ten days for followers of Queen's Park Rangers (QPR). Where to begin? On the managerial front..." For article, See: QPR Report/Vital Football "Ten Days That Shook The World"
- [Visit the QPR Report Messageboard]
Megson on Helguson/QPR: "[D]eal has been on, it has been off...unbelievable" --- Past Charles Sale Articles re QPR
-
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional material of interest! including:
- In the aftermath of his recent articles; some QPR Messageboard posters have been vociferously expressing their views about the Daily Mail's Charles Sale. So the logical next step: A look at his previous writings: The Daily Mail's Charles Sale on QPR
Also on the the QPR Report Messageboard :
- Other Clubs Reducing Prices because of VAT Cuts
- Updated Biography of Bernie Ecclestone (including re QPR)
- Spurs B*st*rds!
Leigh Journal/November 28 - Helguson loan deal done at last
- QPR will be given the option of signing Heidar Helguson after finally completing a loan move for the wantaway striker.
- The Championship club have agreed terms to take the Iceland international until mid-January.
- Helguson has made just two appearances for Wanderers all season and was told by Gary Megson that he was not in his first-team plans. Should the deal be officially completed by the end of business today, he could make his Hoops debut tomorrow against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
- “It is not a criticism of QPR but I do feel a bit sorry for Heidar at the moment,” Megson explained. “The deal has been on, it has been off, it has been unbelievable.
- “But now I understand that the deal is back on and they have the option of signing him at the end of January.”
- Megson has stepped-up his search for players but ruled out any move for highly-rated Hapoel Petach Tikva striker Shimon Abu Hazeira.
- Worried about the size of his squad, the Whites boss admits he is under pressure to bring in signings in the new year.
“It’s been a worry and we’re getting close towards the window now,” he said. “The numbers in the squad have got to come up, but it’s got to be quality numbers as well. We don’t want to just bring players in for the sake of it.
“We won’t get through the second half of the season with the squad at the size it is at the moment.
“We know names of players we would like to bring in, but it’s not always that simple. It’s harder bringing players in during January than it actually is in July.” Leigh Journal
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional material of interest! including:
- In the aftermath of his recent articles; some QPR Messageboard posters have been vociferously expressing their views about the Daily Mail's Charles Sale. So the logical next step: A look at his previous writings: The Daily Mail's Charles Sale on QPR
Also on the the QPR Report Messageboard :
- Other Clubs Reducing Prices because of VAT Cuts
- Updated Biography of Bernie Ecclestone (including re QPR)
- Spurs B*st*rds!
Leigh Journal/November 28 - Helguson loan deal done at last
- QPR will be given the option of signing Heidar Helguson after finally completing a loan move for the wantaway striker.
- The Championship club have agreed terms to take the Iceland international until mid-January.
- Helguson has made just two appearances for Wanderers all season and was told by Gary Megson that he was not in his first-team plans. Should the deal be officially completed by the end of business today, he could make his Hoops debut tomorrow against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
- “It is not a criticism of QPR but I do feel a bit sorry for Heidar at the moment,” Megson explained. “The deal has been on, it has been off, it has been unbelievable.
- “But now I understand that the deal is back on and they have the option of signing him at the end of January.”
- Megson has stepped-up his search for players but ruled out any move for highly-rated Hapoel Petach Tikva striker Shimon Abu Hazeira.
- Worried about the size of his squad, the Whites boss admits he is under pressure to bring in signings in the new year.
“It’s been a worry and we’re getting close towards the window now,” he said. “The numbers in the squad have got to come up, but it’s got to be quality numbers as well. We don’t want to just bring players in for the sake of it.
“We won’t get through the second half of the season with the squad at the size it is at the moment.
“We know names of players we would like to bring in, but it’s not always that simple. It’s harder bringing players in during January than it actually is in July.” Leigh Journal
Snippets: QPR Price Reductions?...Previewing Crystal Palace vs QPR..."On This Day" Don Howe Appointed....Recall for Ex-QPR Greg Goodridge
-
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional material and to express your views. Latest Postings:
- "Leeds Announce £4.5 Million Profit
- FA Cup: Histon (vs Leeds): The QPR Connection
- A reposting reminder what we don't want QPR to become like: "Chelsea, a soulless brand that loves to be loathed"
- Chelsea's Unsuccessful Youth Policy.
Football Clubs VAT Reductions and Price Reductions(QPR?):
- A number of clubs are reducing prices because of the reduction in VAT from 17 ½% to 15%. A number of other clubs have alrady announced they are going to reduce club prices in some form - or at least to consider reductions. For instance: Liverpool, Everton, Spurs, Sunderland, Newcastle, Bolton, Reading, Crystal Palace Dagenham, and Lincoln have all made announcements re VAT/Reductions. Probably a number of other clubs have or will follow suit. Nothing from QPR re what, if any plans they may have re this. "QPR to Reduce Ticket Prices - or Club Shop Prices?". QPR's opponents on Saturday, Crystal Palace, for instance:"Crystal Crystal Palace Football Club are revising their prices for both matchday and season tickets to reflect the new VAT ruling introduced by the government..."Crystal Palace.
Don Howe:
"On This Day" November 28 (1989) Don Howe was named Acting Manager (or Acting First Team Coach) to replace the axed Trevor Francis. Howe's First Game in charge? Crystal Palace Away. Also making his debut in that game: Ray Wilkins. Result? Crystal Palace QPR 3.
Crystal Palace vs QPR:
Saturday, QPR travel to Crystal Palace, for their third successive London Derby. A win for Palace will put them above QPR. Latest Table -- Crystal Palace's Squad -- Crystal Palace Stats this season
- Last November, QPR drew 1-1 at Crystal Palace...and then the following month QPR lost 2-1 at Loftus Road. At Palace, QPR took the lead before a late Morrison equalizer. (No more worried about Morrison - or Freedman - scoring for Palace against QPR!) - The teams for the last time the two clubs played at Palace:
- Crystal Palace: Speroni, Lawrence, Hudson (c), Fonte, Hill, Songo'o (Hall HT), Watson (Bostock 65), Soares (Feedman 72), Kennedy (Soares 72), Ifill, Morrison.
Goal: Morrison 88. Subs not used: Idrizaj, Hills.
- QPR: Camp, Barker, Stewart, Mancienne, Bolder (c) (Rahman 90), Buzsaky, Rowlands (Ainsworth 87), Vine (Sahar 90), Timoska, Leigertwood, Sinclair. Subs not used: Cole, Nardiello Goal: Sinclair 45. . Match Reports
- Crystal Palace vs QPR - Head to Head.
QPR may have their two new loan signings making their debuts: Forward Heidar Helguson and defender, Gary Borrowdale. (Of course QPR fans a week ago, expected to see Heglguson's debut against Watford - not realizing...!)
QPR OFFICIAL SITE THE FRIDAY PREVIEW: EAGLES
- Rangers are on their travels again on Saturday afternoon, for the final part of their November London derby trilogy.
- After defeat at Watford last weekend was followed hot-on-the-heels by victory in W12 against Charlton Athletic on Tuesday night, the R's make the short coach ride to Selhurst Park this weekend, to face a Crystal Palace side slowly but surely finding their groove once again, after initially suffering from a bit of a hangover from last season's whirlwind campaign.
- Indeed, the Eagles came from nowhere to snatch a play-off place last time out, only to be beaten by Bristol City in the semi-finals.
- So far this season, however, Palace have begun in an inconsistent fashion. Indeed, Eagles fans had to wait until the fifth game of the season to see their side register their first win, a 2-0 victory over Swansea City.
- Ironically, the match against the Swans saw the return of the exiled Ben Watson to the starting line-up. The creative midfielder has refused to sign a new deal at Selhurst Park, prompting widespread speculation over his future, but Watson opened the scoring that day.
- Predictably, he has kept his place ever since and has netted a further four times, including a crucial equaliser against Sheffield Wednesday.
- He has been aided in his revival by the re-emergence of another outcast, in Shefki Kuqi, and winger Paul Ifill, who have weighed in with three goals apiece.
- But form has not come as easily as the business end of last season, with results ranging from losing at home to struggling Nottingham Forest, to winning away at Coventry City, and earlier this week, at Norwich City.
- A controversial Craig Beattie strike and a fine John Oster finish helped Palace clinch a 2-1 victory at Carrow Road on Tuesday night.
- The Eagles took the lead when Patrick McCarthy's long ball found Beattie, who poked the ball under keeper David Marshall despite suspicions of offside.
- Palace doubled their lead just before half-time when Oster chipped the ball brilliantly over a stranded Marshall.
- The Canaries pulled one back when Matthew Pattison nodded in Lee Croft's cross, but the Eagles held on, to move up to twelfth in the Championship - and just three points shy of the play-off's.
- Despite being buoyed by Dexter Blackstock's double on Tuesday night, the final instalment of the R's London derby trilogy may prove to be the toughest to date, as forecasting which Crystal Palace side will turn up is unpredictable at best.
QPR
This is Local London/Graham Moody - Warnock disappointed at Styles appointment
- Neil Warnock has admitted his unhappiness after Rob Styles was appointed referee for tomorrow’s clash with QPR at Selhurst Park.
- The Yorkshireman has been a long-standing critic of Styles after the official awarded a controversial penalty to Liverpool against his Sheffield United side on the opening day of their Premiership season two years ago and then failed to award a cast iron penalty to the Blades at Old Trafford.
- Of the latter incident, Warnock wrote in his autobiography: “It was the most obvious of penalties and the most obvious of red cards.
- “Everybody said so but Rob Styles didn’t give it. Let’s face it he doesn’t give much against the big teams. He hasn’t quite got the courage.”
- Styles has made a number of high profile blunders this season, including awarding Christiano Ronaldo a penalty at Bolton when Jlloyd Samuel clearly got the ball and then sending off Habib Beye in the 12th minute of Newcastle’s draw against Manchester City, a decision that was later rescinded and led to Styles being dropped from the Premiership programme.
- Warnock said: “I am disappointed that we have been given Rob Styles again simply because of the comments I made about him in my book.
- “I feel strongly about two of the decisions he made that season. I was hoping I would never get him again and I am disappointed I do.”
- Paul Ifill will face a late fitness test ahead of tomorrow’s match while Alan Lee and Danny Butterfield are set to play in a reserve fixture next Wednesday against Reading at Bromley’s Hayes Lane as they continue to recover from hamstring injuries.
This is Local London
Evening Standard - Jose Fonte will achieve a lifetime's ambition when he faces boyhood hero Paulo Sousa tomorrow.
- The Crystal Palace defender was a huge fan of Queens Park Rangers boss Sousa when he was growing up in Lisbon.
- Sousa is an icon in Portugal after winning 51 caps as part of the country's 'golden generation' and claiming two Champions Leagues at Juventus and Borussia Dortmund. Fonte, 24, has been filled in on his coaching prowess by his brother, Rui, an Arsenal trainee who played for Sousa in Portugal's Under-18s.
- Ahead of tomorrow's clash at Selhurt Park Fonte said said: "Sousa is a huge figure in Portugal. He gained so much respect because he was a massive player for the national team and he played for some of Europe's biggest clubs.
- "Maybe there was a bit of surprise that he is managing QPR but he is very respected in Italy and Flavio Briatore is Italian so that must have played a part.
- "He knows the game extremely well and I have so much respect for him. It will be an honour to play against him." Standard
Who knew! Greg Goodridge is still playing
- Barbados -Lalu recalled for finals Nation News/Barbados by EZRA STUART
LIKE GOOD OLE WINE, former national captain and English professional Gregory "Lalu" Goodridge is back in the Barbados football firmament.
The 37-year-old Goodridge has been recalled to the Barbados team, selected for the finals of the lucrative Digicel Caribbean Championships starting in Jamaica next week.
The Barbados footballers will have a tough opening match on Wednesday night against host country Jamaica at the National Stadium, which is known as "The Office".
The Bajan Tridents will then oppose the seven-time champions Trinidad and Tobago on Friday at Jarret Park in Montego Bay, followed by another Group match against Grenada at the Trelawny Stadium on Sunday as they hunt a first prize of US$120 000 and a berth in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
The evergreen Goodridge, who played for Queen's Park Rangers in the English Premier League in 1996 following stints at Torquay, Bristol City and Cheltenham, makes a return to the national team after a two-year "retirement" following the 2006 Digicel Cup finals in Trinidad and Tobago.
"I'm very grateful to hear that they (coaching staff) wanted me to come back and play. I always put my country first. I consider it an honour to represent my country and will never refuse an opportunity to do so because playing for Barbados, it doesn't get any higher," Goodridge told WEEKENDSPORT yesterday.
Goodridge said he attended a couple of training sessions with the national team and was able to match the younger players in the fitness drills.
"The only people who look at age in sports are Barbadians. Trinidad are playing with Dwight Yorke and Russell Latapy in their World Cup matches. As long as you have the legs, can read the game and willing to play, you will come through," he pointed out.
With Goodridge returning, his Brittons Hill teammate Bryan Gay, who made his senior debut in St Kitts but did not play in any of the three games in Cuba, has been excluded....
Nation News
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional material and to express your views. Latest Postings:
- "Leeds Announce £4.5 Million Profit
- FA Cup: Histon (vs Leeds): The QPR Connection
- A reposting reminder what we don't want QPR to become like: "Chelsea, a soulless brand that loves to be loathed"
- Chelsea's Unsuccessful Youth Policy.
Football Clubs VAT Reductions and Price Reductions(QPR?):
- A number of clubs are reducing prices because of the reduction in VAT from 17 ½% to 15%. A number of other clubs have alrady announced they are going to reduce club prices in some form - or at least to consider reductions. For instance: Liverpool, Everton, Spurs, Sunderland, Newcastle, Bolton, Reading, Crystal Palace Dagenham, and Lincoln have all made announcements re VAT/Reductions. Probably a number of other clubs have or will follow suit. Nothing from QPR re what, if any plans they may have re this. "QPR to Reduce Ticket Prices - or Club Shop Prices?". QPR's opponents on Saturday, Crystal Palace, for instance:"Crystal Crystal Palace Football Club are revising their prices for both matchday and season tickets to reflect the new VAT ruling introduced by the government..."Crystal Palace.
Don Howe:
"On This Day" November 28 (1989) Don Howe was named Acting Manager (or Acting First Team Coach) to replace the axed Trevor Francis. Howe's First Game in charge? Crystal Palace Away. Also making his debut in that game: Ray Wilkins. Result? Crystal Palace QPR 3.
Crystal Palace vs QPR:
Saturday, QPR travel to Crystal Palace, for their third successive London Derby. A win for Palace will put them above QPR. Latest Table -- Crystal Palace's Squad -- Crystal Palace Stats this season
- Last November, QPR drew 1-1 at Crystal Palace...and then the following month QPR lost 2-1 at Loftus Road. At Palace, QPR took the lead before a late Morrison equalizer. (No more worried about Morrison - or Freedman - scoring for Palace against QPR!) - The teams for the last time the two clubs played at Palace:
- Crystal Palace: Speroni, Lawrence, Hudson (c), Fonte, Hill, Songo'o (Hall HT), Watson (Bostock 65), Soares (Feedman 72), Kennedy (Soares 72), Ifill, Morrison.
Goal: Morrison 88. Subs not used: Idrizaj, Hills.
- QPR: Camp, Barker, Stewart, Mancienne, Bolder (c) (Rahman 90), Buzsaky, Rowlands (Ainsworth 87), Vine (Sahar 90), Timoska, Leigertwood, Sinclair. Subs not used: Cole, Nardiello Goal: Sinclair 45. . Match Reports
- Crystal Palace vs QPR - Head to Head.
QPR may have their two new loan signings making their debuts: Forward Heidar Helguson and defender, Gary Borrowdale. (Of course QPR fans a week ago, expected to see Heglguson's debut against Watford - not realizing...!)
QPR OFFICIAL SITE THE FRIDAY PREVIEW: EAGLES
- Rangers are on their travels again on Saturday afternoon, for the final part of their November London derby trilogy.
- After defeat at Watford last weekend was followed hot-on-the-heels by victory in W12 against Charlton Athletic on Tuesday night, the R's make the short coach ride to Selhurst Park this weekend, to face a Crystal Palace side slowly but surely finding their groove once again, after initially suffering from a bit of a hangover from last season's whirlwind campaign.
- Indeed, the Eagles came from nowhere to snatch a play-off place last time out, only to be beaten by Bristol City in the semi-finals.
- So far this season, however, Palace have begun in an inconsistent fashion. Indeed, Eagles fans had to wait until the fifth game of the season to see their side register their first win, a 2-0 victory over Swansea City.
- Ironically, the match against the Swans saw the return of the exiled Ben Watson to the starting line-up. The creative midfielder has refused to sign a new deal at Selhurst Park, prompting widespread speculation over his future, but Watson opened the scoring that day.
- Predictably, he has kept his place ever since and has netted a further four times, including a crucial equaliser against Sheffield Wednesday.
- He has been aided in his revival by the re-emergence of another outcast, in Shefki Kuqi, and winger Paul Ifill, who have weighed in with three goals apiece.
- But form has not come as easily as the business end of last season, with results ranging from losing at home to struggling Nottingham Forest, to winning away at Coventry City, and earlier this week, at Norwich City.
- A controversial Craig Beattie strike and a fine John Oster finish helped Palace clinch a 2-1 victory at Carrow Road on Tuesday night.
- The Eagles took the lead when Patrick McCarthy's long ball found Beattie, who poked the ball under keeper David Marshall despite suspicions of offside.
- Palace doubled their lead just before half-time when Oster chipped the ball brilliantly over a stranded Marshall.
- The Canaries pulled one back when Matthew Pattison nodded in Lee Croft's cross, but the Eagles held on, to move up to twelfth in the Championship - and just three points shy of the play-off's.
- Despite being buoyed by Dexter Blackstock's double on Tuesday night, the final instalment of the R's London derby trilogy may prove to be the toughest to date, as forecasting which Crystal Palace side will turn up is unpredictable at best.
QPR
This is Local London/Graham Moody - Warnock disappointed at Styles appointment
- Neil Warnock has admitted his unhappiness after Rob Styles was appointed referee for tomorrow’s clash with QPR at Selhurst Park.
- The Yorkshireman has been a long-standing critic of Styles after the official awarded a controversial penalty to Liverpool against his Sheffield United side on the opening day of their Premiership season two years ago and then failed to award a cast iron penalty to the Blades at Old Trafford.
- Of the latter incident, Warnock wrote in his autobiography: “It was the most obvious of penalties and the most obvious of red cards.
- “Everybody said so but Rob Styles didn’t give it. Let’s face it he doesn’t give much against the big teams. He hasn’t quite got the courage.”
- Styles has made a number of high profile blunders this season, including awarding Christiano Ronaldo a penalty at Bolton when Jlloyd Samuel clearly got the ball and then sending off Habib Beye in the 12th minute of Newcastle’s draw against Manchester City, a decision that was later rescinded and led to Styles being dropped from the Premiership programme.
- Warnock said: “I am disappointed that we have been given Rob Styles again simply because of the comments I made about him in my book.
- “I feel strongly about two of the decisions he made that season. I was hoping I would never get him again and I am disappointed I do.”
- Paul Ifill will face a late fitness test ahead of tomorrow’s match while Alan Lee and Danny Butterfield are set to play in a reserve fixture next Wednesday against Reading at Bromley’s Hayes Lane as they continue to recover from hamstring injuries.
This is Local London
Evening Standard - Jose Fonte will achieve a lifetime's ambition when he faces boyhood hero Paulo Sousa tomorrow.
- The Crystal Palace defender was a huge fan of Queens Park Rangers boss Sousa when he was growing up in Lisbon.
- Sousa is an icon in Portugal after winning 51 caps as part of the country's 'golden generation' and claiming two Champions Leagues at Juventus and Borussia Dortmund. Fonte, 24, has been filled in on his coaching prowess by his brother, Rui, an Arsenal trainee who played for Sousa in Portugal's Under-18s.
- Ahead of tomorrow's clash at Selhurt Park Fonte said said: "Sousa is a huge figure in Portugal. He gained so much respect because he was a massive player for the national team and he played for some of Europe's biggest clubs.
- "Maybe there was a bit of surprise that he is managing QPR but he is very respected in Italy and Flavio Briatore is Italian so that must have played a part.
- "He knows the game extremely well and I have so much respect for him. It will be an honour to play against him." Standard
Who knew! Greg Goodridge is still playing
- Barbados -Lalu recalled for finals Nation News/Barbados by EZRA STUART
LIKE GOOD OLE WINE, former national captain and English professional Gregory "Lalu" Goodridge is back in the Barbados football firmament.
The 37-year-old Goodridge has been recalled to the Barbados team, selected for the finals of the lucrative Digicel Caribbean Championships starting in Jamaica next week.
The Barbados footballers will have a tough opening match on Wednesday night against host country Jamaica at the National Stadium, which is known as "The Office".
The Bajan Tridents will then oppose the seven-time champions Trinidad and Tobago on Friday at Jarret Park in Montego Bay, followed by another Group match against Grenada at the Trelawny Stadium on Sunday as they hunt a first prize of US$120 000 and a berth in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
The evergreen Goodridge, who played for Queen's Park Rangers in the English Premier League in 1996 following stints at Torquay, Bristol City and Cheltenham, makes a return to the national team after a two-year "retirement" following the 2006 Digicel Cup finals in Trinidad and Tobago.
"I'm very grateful to hear that they (coaching staff) wanted me to come back and play. I always put my country first. I consider it an honour to represent my country and will never refuse an opportunity to do so because playing for Barbados, it doesn't get any higher," Goodridge told WEEKENDSPORT yesterday.
Goodridge said he attended a couple of training sessions with the national team and was able to match the younger players in the fitness drills.
"The only people who look at age in sports are Barbadians. Trinidad are playing with Dwight Yorke and Russell Latapy in their World Cup matches. As long as you have the legs, can read the game and willing to play, you will come through," he pointed out.
With Goodridge returning, his Brittons Hill teammate Bryan Gay, who made his senior debut in St Kitts but did not play in any of the three games in Cuba, has been excluded....
Nation News
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Ex-QPRs Warren Neil and Joe Dunbar Axed by Luton...Cureton to Barnsley on Loan
-
Luton Official Site CHANGES IN THE DRESSING ROOM
- Luton Town Football Club 2020 Ltd (LTFC2020) has announced today that it has released the services of first team coach Warren Neill and performance manager Joe Dunbar
- Both Warren and Joe were appointed by the administrator when the club was in turmoil following the departure of Kevin Blackwell and his staff. Working alongside Hatters' boss Mick Harford, they were responsible for first team activities and played a significant role in the massive restructuring of the squad during July and August 2008.
- Mick Harford said, "Both guys have done a tremendous amount for the club and fans should thank them both for their contribution. We had a huge task on our hands putting a squad together for this season and without their knowledge and support that would have been an impossible task.
- Mick continued, "They have supported me during this difficult year and I am full of gratitude for their support and friendship. I know both guys very well and respect them hugely. Very few people would have taken on the challenge at the time they did and I wish them every success in the future."
- Gary Sweet, md of LTFC2020 commented, "We know the situation we are in and we are aware of the skills needed. Warren and Joe have done a great job for us but this club is in a unique situation and clinical action is sometimes required in order for us to maximise our chances of survival.
- Gary continued, "Decisions like this are always hard and we have spoken to both of them personally to explain the situation, however, we now feel we need to introduce a change of emphasis at this time. We will be taking interviews and making an announcement in the next few days on their long-term replacements."
- Antony Brown, LTFC2020 director, added, "We have a good squad of players and we need to overcome our injury problems. Everyone strongly believes that we can overcome the plight we face and we know the importance of being able to play our first choice eleven. As the club is stabilising financially we have the opportunity to step up the support in the dressing room and on the training pitch so that is what we intend to do."
- Until announcements are made Alan Neilsen will support Mick by taking temporary charge of first team coaching. Luton Official Site
Jamie Cureton Joins Barnsley on Loan
Barnsley Official Site - SENSATIONAL CURETON DEAL
BARNSLEY manager Simon Davey has today swooped into the transfer market and beaten the deadline to sign Norwich City striker Jamie Cureton on a three-month emergency loan.
The deal has beaten the deadline and Jamie will be able to make his Barnsley debut against Nottingham Forest this weekend.
Born in Bristol, the 33-year-old started his career with Norwich City, hitting six goals in 32 games as a youngster. Loan spells with Bournemouth and Bristol Rovers followed before he eventually joined Rovers on a permanent basis in 1996. Jamie hit the goal trail at the Memorial Stadium, netting 74 times in 196 games earning a switch to Reading in 2000. He scored 55 goals in just 127 matches for the Royalsand enjoyed a year in South Korea with Busan I'cons before returning to English football in 2004 with QPR. His time at Loftus Road was not as successful as he hoped and he found the back of the net six times in 47 games for Rangers.
Jamie went out on loan during the 2005/2006 season enjoying stints with Swindon Town and Colchester United, where he impressed with seven goals in just ten games. He joined the Us permanently in the summer of 2006 as they prepared for life in the second tier of English football and the striker went on to plunder 23 goals in 46 matches as the Layer Road club had a memorable year.
He returned to Norwich City in June 2006 and Jamie managed 14 goals for the Club last season. He has started three league games for the Canaries this term although he has been called into action from the bench eleven times.
Reds boss Simon Davey said: "We have lost Iain (Hume) and our thoughts are with him but we need to ensure we have the firepower to maintain our excellent run. Jamie is a player I have admired for a long time and has a fantastic goalscoring record. He is another piece in the jigsaw here.
"He is a goalscorer and is proven at this level and if he gets the opportunity then he will put it into the back of the net. We are on a fantastic run at the moment and now is the right time to strengthen. Having spoken with his representatives and to Jamie we know that he wanted to come here. We wanted Jamie and we have signed him". Barnsley
- As always, visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional football focus.
Luton Official Site CHANGES IN THE DRESSING ROOM
- Luton Town Football Club 2020 Ltd (LTFC2020) has announced today that it has released the services of first team coach Warren Neill and performance manager Joe Dunbar
- Both Warren and Joe were appointed by the administrator when the club was in turmoil following the departure of Kevin Blackwell and his staff. Working alongside Hatters' boss Mick Harford, they were responsible for first team activities and played a significant role in the massive restructuring of the squad during July and August 2008.
- Mick Harford said, "Both guys have done a tremendous amount for the club and fans should thank them both for their contribution. We had a huge task on our hands putting a squad together for this season and without their knowledge and support that would have been an impossible task.
- Mick continued, "They have supported me during this difficult year and I am full of gratitude for their support and friendship. I know both guys very well and respect them hugely. Very few people would have taken on the challenge at the time they did and I wish them every success in the future."
- Gary Sweet, md of LTFC2020 commented, "We know the situation we are in and we are aware of the skills needed. Warren and Joe have done a great job for us but this club is in a unique situation and clinical action is sometimes required in order for us to maximise our chances of survival.
- Gary continued, "Decisions like this are always hard and we have spoken to both of them personally to explain the situation, however, we now feel we need to introduce a change of emphasis at this time. We will be taking interviews and making an announcement in the next few days on their long-term replacements."
- Antony Brown, LTFC2020 director, added, "We have a good squad of players and we need to overcome our injury problems. Everyone strongly believes that we can overcome the plight we face and we know the importance of being able to play our first choice eleven. As the club is stabilising financially we have the opportunity to step up the support in the dressing room and on the training pitch so that is what we intend to do."
- Until announcements are made Alan Neilsen will support Mick by taking temporary charge of first team coaching. Luton Official Site
Jamie Cureton Joins Barnsley on Loan
Barnsley Official Site - SENSATIONAL CURETON DEAL
BARNSLEY manager Simon Davey has today swooped into the transfer market and beaten the deadline to sign Norwich City striker Jamie Cureton on a three-month emergency loan.
The deal has beaten the deadline and Jamie will be able to make his Barnsley debut against Nottingham Forest this weekend.
Born in Bristol, the 33-year-old started his career with Norwich City, hitting six goals in 32 games as a youngster. Loan spells with Bournemouth and Bristol Rovers followed before he eventually joined Rovers on a permanent basis in 1996. Jamie hit the goal trail at the Memorial Stadium, netting 74 times in 196 games earning a switch to Reading in 2000. He scored 55 goals in just 127 matches for the Royalsand enjoyed a year in South Korea with Busan I'cons before returning to English football in 2004 with QPR. His time at Loftus Road was not as successful as he hoped and he found the back of the net six times in 47 games for Rangers.
Jamie went out on loan during the 2005/2006 season enjoying stints with Swindon Town and Colchester United, where he impressed with seven goals in just ten games. He joined the Us permanently in the summer of 2006 as they prepared for life in the second tier of English football and the striker went on to plunder 23 goals in 46 matches as the Layer Road club had a memorable year.
He returned to Norwich City in June 2006 and Jamie managed 14 goals for the Club last season. He has started three league games for the Canaries this term although he has been called into action from the bench eleven times.
Reds boss Simon Davey said: "We have lost Iain (Hume) and our thoughts are with him but we need to ensure we have the firepower to maintain our excellent run. Jamie is a player I have admired for a long time and has a fantastic goalscoring record. He is another piece in the jigsaw here.
"He is a goalscorer and is proven at this level and if he gets the opportunity then he will put it into the back of the net. We are on a fantastic run at the moment and now is the right time to strengthen. Having spoken with his representatives and to Jamie we know that he wanted to come here. We wanted Jamie and we have signed him". Barnsley
- As always, visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional football focus.
FA Cup Third Round Draw: QPR's Number #31
-
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional football posts and to express your views.] See for example:
- Airbrushing History - Kiyan Prince
- QPR's Relegation-Achieving Squad of a Decade Ago
- Middlesbrough Musing: Use TV Money to Subsidize Ticket prices
- Nostalgia: Seven Years Ago: The Search for New Owners
- Last Year's Caretaker Manager in Action
- "Sleeping giants: Ten teams that should be granted Premier League status for life" (QPR being one of them!)
- Ex-QPR Jon Munday Update
FA re FA CUP THIRD ROUND DRAW
"Live on ITV, Sir Trevor Brooking and Ray Clemence will make the draw with Jim Rosenthal at Soho Square on Sunday at 2.15pm. With the 44 sides from the Premier League and Championship coming into the draw, there will be 64 balls in the hat for the Third Round and ties will be played on the weekend of 3-4 January. Winning clubs will receive £75,000 from The FA"
FA Cup Third Round Draw Numbers
1 - Arsenal
2 - Aston Villa
3 - Barnsley
4 - Birmingham City
5 - Blackburn Rovers
6 - Blackpool
7 - Bolton Wanderers
8 - Bristol City
9 - Burnley
10 - Cardiff City
11 - Charlton Athletic
12 - Chelsea
13 - Coventry City
14 - Crystal Palace
15 - Derby County
16 - Doncaster Rovers
17 - Everton
18 - Fulham
19 - Hull City
20 - Ipswich Town
21 - Liverpool
22 - Manchester City
23 - Manchester United
24 - Middlesbrough
25 - Newcastle United
26 - Norwich City
27 - Nottingham Forest
28 - Plymouth Argyle
29 - Portsmouth
30 - Preston North End
31 - Queens Park Rangers
32 - Reading
33 - Sheffield United
34 - Sheffield Wednesday
35 - Southampton
36 - Stoke City
37 - Sunderland
38 - Swansea City
39 - Tottenham Hotspur
40 - Watford
41 - West Brom
42 - West Ham United
43 - Wigan Athletic
44 - Wolves
45 - Chesterfield or Droylsden
46 - Peterborough United or Tranmere Rovers
47 - Eastwood Town or Wycombe Wanderers
48 - Notts County or Kettering Town
49 - Leicester City or Dagenham & Redbridge
50 - Barrow or Brentford
51 - Bradford City or Leyton Orient
52 - Southend United or Luton Town
53 - Forest Green Rovers or Rochdale
54 - Histon or Leeds United
55 - Scunthorpe United or Alfreton Town
56 - Torquay United or Oxford United
57 - Fleetwood Town or Hartlepool United
58 - Morecambe or Cheltenham Town
59 - Gillingham or Stockport County
60 - Millwall or Aldershot Town
61 - Carlisle United/Grays Athletic or Crewe Alexandra
62 - Bournemouth or Blyth Spartans
63 - Kidderminster Harriers or Curzon Ashton
64 - Port Vale or Macclesfield Town
FA Cup: Third Round Details
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional football posts and to express your views.] See for example:
- Airbrushing History - Kiyan Prince
- QPR's Relegation-Achieving Squad of a Decade Ago
- Middlesbrough Musing: Use TV Money to Subsidize Ticket prices
- Nostalgia: Seven Years Ago: The Search for New Owners
- Last Year's Caretaker Manager in Action
- "Sleeping giants: Ten teams that should be granted Premier League status for life" (QPR being one of them!)
- Ex-QPR Jon Munday Update
FA re FA CUP THIRD ROUND DRAW
"Live on ITV, Sir Trevor Brooking and Ray Clemence will make the draw with Jim Rosenthal at Soho Square on Sunday at 2.15pm. With the 44 sides from the Premier League and Championship coming into the draw, there will be 64 balls in the hat for the Third Round and ties will be played on the weekend of 3-4 January. Winning clubs will receive £75,000 from The FA"
FA Cup Third Round Draw Numbers
1 - Arsenal
2 - Aston Villa
3 - Barnsley
4 - Birmingham City
5 - Blackburn Rovers
6 - Blackpool
7 - Bolton Wanderers
8 - Bristol City
9 - Burnley
10 - Cardiff City
11 - Charlton Athletic
12 - Chelsea
13 - Coventry City
14 - Crystal Palace
15 - Derby County
16 - Doncaster Rovers
17 - Everton
18 - Fulham
19 - Hull City
20 - Ipswich Town
21 - Liverpool
22 - Manchester City
23 - Manchester United
24 - Middlesbrough
25 - Newcastle United
26 - Norwich City
27 - Nottingham Forest
28 - Plymouth Argyle
29 - Portsmouth
30 - Preston North End
31 - Queens Park Rangers
32 - Reading
33 - Sheffield United
34 - Sheffield Wednesday
35 - Southampton
36 - Stoke City
37 - Sunderland
38 - Swansea City
39 - Tottenham Hotspur
40 - Watford
41 - West Brom
42 - West Ham United
43 - Wigan Athletic
44 - Wolves
45 - Chesterfield or Droylsden
46 - Peterborough United or Tranmere Rovers
47 - Eastwood Town or Wycombe Wanderers
48 - Notts County or Kettering Town
49 - Leicester City or Dagenham & Redbridge
50 - Barrow or Brentford
51 - Bradford City or Leyton Orient
52 - Southend United or Luton Town
53 - Forest Green Rovers or Rochdale
54 - Histon or Leeds United
55 - Scunthorpe United or Alfreton Town
56 - Torquay United or Oxford United
57 - Fleetwood Town or Hartlepool United
58 - Morecambe or Cheltenham Town
59 - Gillingham or Stockport County
60 - Millwall or Aldershot Town
61 - Carlisle United/Grays Athletic or Crewe Alexandra
62 - Bournemouth or Blyth Spartans
63 - Kidderminster Harriers or Curzon Ashton
64 - Port Vale or Macclesfield Town
FA Cup: Third Round Details
Snippets - Rowlands on Sousa...Borrowdale: Coventry Wanted £1.5 Million Year Ago.... No Gorkss to Preston....Caliendo-Briatore Update...QPR in Bahrain
-
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional football posts and to express your views.] - Airbrushing History - Kiyan Prince....QPR's Relegation-Achieving Squad of a Decade Ago...Middlesbrough Musing: Use TV Money to Subsidize Ticket
prices.....Nostalgia: Seven Years Ago: The Search for New Owners
- Ex-QPR Jon Munday Update
-
Caliendo-Briatore Update - From his blog [Italian speakers welcome!]
Dave McIntre/Ealing Gazette - Borrowdale joins from Coventry
QPR have agreed the signing of Coventry full-back Gary Borrowdale.
The former England U21 international is set to join Rangers on loan with a view to a permanent move for an undisclosed fee when the transfer window opens in January.
Borrowdale, 23, joined Coventry from Crystal Palace for around £650,000 in July last year.
He has since lost his first team place and was recently told he could leave the Sky Blues if another club came in for him.
That alerted QPR, who were interested in buying him last January but were told then that he would cost £1.5m.
Borrowdale is likely to be in the Rangers squad for Saturday's game against old club Palace at Selhurst Park....Ealing Gazette
Eleven a Side - "Rowlands Backs New QPR Boss"
"...And Ireland international Rowlands is pleased to welcome the Portuguese to west London. He said: “He’s had a fantastic playing career and was assistant to Luiz Felipe Scolari for five years with Portugal - and Scolari is obviously a great manager.
“If he can bring that experience with him, I’m sure it will be very beneficial. It is a big plus that he speaks English. He’ll have his own way of saying things and his own opinions but I’m sure we’ll have a good relationship." Eleven a Side
This is Lancashire/Tony Dewhurst -Gorkss is a no go - for now
- Former Blackpool defender Kaspars Gorkss could still be a Preston North End target.
But Deepdale chairman Derek Shaw today denied North End are locked in talks with the Latvia international, whose future is looking increasingly uncertain at Queens Park Rangers.
- Preston boss Alan Irvine tried to sign the 27-year-old stopper last summer before the big defender's £250,000 switch to Loftus Road.
-Shaw told the Evening Post: "We tried to sign Kaspars Gorkss but we couldn't compete with the financial package on offer to the player at QPR.
-"Alan Irvine was keen to bring him to Deepdale, and Gorkss is a player our manager admires.
-"I believe his father represented him when we had talks in the summer, but we've not spoken since then and speculation that we are having more discussions is nonsense.
-"We would certainly need some assistance from QPR if we were to do anything in the January window, but I doubt we will.-
"We've a young centre-half, Neil Trotman, we haven't seen yet and we've other options there..." This is Lancashire
QPR Official Site - FOOTBALL IN THE COMMUNITY - IN BAHRAIN
Queens Park Rangers Football Club has joined forces with Gulf Air to promote grass roots football among Bahraini children.
In conjunction with the Club's Football in the Community department, Gulf Air - Bahrain's national carrier and the R's official shirt sponsors - launched the first phase of its initiative at a lunch and presentation ceremony in the presence of ex-England and Rangers striker Les Ferdinand at the Gulf Air Club in Isa town last week.
The event, which was attended by representatives from the Government Organisation for Youth and Sport (GOYS) and QPR, is part of the R's on-going commitment to the people of Bahrain.!
The first phase of the initiative, which targets the youngest members of the community, was kicked off by Ferdinand, with the presentation of coaching kits to representatives from over 20 local Football Clubs in Bahrain.
The kits were awarded to the teams as part of Gulf Air's Football in the Community Initiative.
As part of the partnership, the Club has committed to a special five-day football coaching camp that will be run by professional coaches from QPR, from Sunday 30th November.
The camp will provide children from the local community with the opportunity to improve their football skills with some of the Club's best coaches, free of charge.
The camp will have five different sessions, including one specifically for the Bahraini National Youth Development Team and the Bahraini Girls National Team.
Commenting on the recent launch, Ferdinand said: "Football is a sport which has the power to bring people together and I am proud to be involved in a programme that will provide a fantastic opportunity for local kids as well as strengthening social and community links."
Ali Russell, Assistant Managing Director of QPR, commented: "We are delighted to be in partnership with Gulf Air and support the development of grass roots football in the Kingdom of Bahrain. QPR is fully committed to Gulf Air and its Football in the Community initiative. We would like to thank Gulf Air and its partners for the opportunity to participate in this social cause, which I am sure will be a great success!"
Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Björn Näf added: "This initiative is about giving people - particularly children - the opportunity not just to come together and play football but to learn about the benefits of team work.
"As the flag carrier of the Kingdom, Gulf Air is committed to promoting grassroots sport in the Kingdom of Bahrain and we are looking forward to working closely with local football clubs, GOYS and the Bahrain Football Association." QPR
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional football posts and to express your views.] - Airbrushing History - Kiyan Prince....QPR's Relegation-Achieving Squad of a Decade Ago...Middlesbrough Musing: Use TV Money to Subsidize Ticket
prices.....Nostalgia: Seven Years Ago: The Search for New Owners
- Ex-QPR Jon Munday Update
-
Caliendo-Briatore Update - From his blog [Italian speakers welcome!]
Dave McIntre/Ealing Gazette - Borrowdale joins from Coventry
QPR have agreed the signing of Coventry full-back Gary Borrowdale.
The former England U21 international is set to join Rangers on loan with a view to a permanent move for an undisclosed fee when the transfer window opens in January.
Borrowdale, 23, joined Coventry from Crystal Palace for around £650,000 in July last year.
He has since lost his first team place and was recently told he could leave the Sky Blues if another club came in for him.
That alerted QPR, who were interested in buying him last January but were told then that he would cost £1.5m.
Borrowdale is likely to be in the Rangers squad for Saturday's game against old club Palace at Selhurst Park....Ealing Gazette
Eleven a Side - "Rowlands Backs New QPR Boss"
"...And Ireland international Rowlands is pleased to welcome the Portuguese to west London. He said: “He’s had a fantastic playing career and was assistant to Luiz Felipe Scolari for five years with Portugal - and Scolari is obviously a great manager.
“If he can bring that experience with him, I’m sure it will be very beneficial. It is a big plus that he speaks English. He’ll have his own way of saying things and his own opinions but I’m sure we’ll have a good relationship." Eleven a Side
This is Lancashire/Tony Dewhurst -Gorkss is a no go - for now
- Former Blackpool defender Kaspars Gorkss could still be a Preston North End target.
But Deepdale chairman Derek Shaw today denied North End are locked in talks with the Latvia international, whose future is looking increasingly uncertain at Queens Park Rangers.
- Preston boss Alan Irvine tried to sign the 27-year-old stopper last summer before the big defender's £250,000 switch to Loftus Road.
-Shaw told the Evening Post: "We tried to sign Kaspars Gorkss but we couldn't compete with the financial package on offer to the player at QPR.
-"Alan Irvine was keen to bring him to Deepdale, and Gorkss is a player our manager admires.
-"I believe his father represented him when we had talks in the summer, but we've not spoken since then and speculation that we are having more discussions is nonsense.
-"We would certainly need some assistance from QPR if we were to do anything in the January window, but I doubt we will.-
"We've a young centre-half, Neil Trotman, we haven't seen yet and we've other options there..." This is Lancashire
QPR Official Site - FOOTBALL IN THE COMMUNITY - IN BAHRAIN
Queens Park Rangers Football Club has joined forces with Gulf Air to promote grass roots football among Bahraini children.
In conjunction with the Club's Football in the Community department, Gulf Air - Bahrain's national carrier and the R's official shirt sponsors - launched the first phase of its initiative at a lunch and presentation ceremony in the presence of ex-England and Rangers striker Les Ferdinand at the Gulf Air Club in Isa town last week.
The event, which was attended by representatives from the Government Organisation for Youth and Sport (GOYS) and QPR, is part of the R's on-going commitment to the people of Bahrain.!
The first phase of the initiative, which targets the youngest members of the community, was kicked off by Ferdinand, with the presentation of coaching kits to representatives from over 20 local Football Clubs in Bahrain.
The kits were awarded to the teams as part of Gulf Air's Football in the Community Initiative.
As part of the partnership, the Club has committed to a special five-day football coaching camp that will be run by professional coaches from QPR, from Sunday 30th November.
The camp will provide children from the local community with the opportunity to improve their football skills with some of the Club's best coaches, free of charge.
The camp will have five different sessions, including one specifically for the Bahraini National Youth Development Team and the Bahraini Girls National Team.
Commenting on the recent launch, Ferdinand said: "Football is a sport which has the power to bring people together and I am proud to be involved in a programme that will provide a fantastic opportunity for local kids as well as strengthening social and community links."
Ali Russell, Assistant Managing Director of QPR, commented: "We are delighted to be in partnership with Gulf Air and support the development of grass roots football in the Kingdom of Bahrain. QPR is fully committed to Gulf Air and its Football in the Community initiative. We would like to thank Gulf Air and its partners for the opportunity to participate in this social cause, which I am sure will be a great success!"
Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Björn Näf added: "This initiative is about giving people - particularly children - the opportunity not just to come together and play football but to learn about the benefits of team work.
"As the flag carrier of the Kingdom, Gulf Air is committed to promoting grassroots sport in the Kingdom of Bahrain and we are looking forward to working closely with local football clubs, GOYS and the Bahrain Football Association." QPR
Sheila Marson Update: Supposedly Starting Legal Proceedings re Her Sacking
-
Of course the source is Charles Sale/Daily Mail
Daily Mail/Charles Sale
"...QPR's deposed secretary Sheila Marson is starting legal proceedings claiming unfair dismissal.
Sheila, 55, who had been at Loftus Road for more than 20 years, alleges she was given no reason for her sacking this week.
But fans are speculating on websites that owner Flavio Briatore wanted her out as she is too old and doesn't fit in with the dolly-bird image he wants to replicate from F1 in his QPR 'project'." Mail
Statement from QPR1st Over Her Departure
Sheila Marson - November 25, 2008
QPR1st are saddened and shocked to hear of the news that club secretary Sheila Marson has left the club.
Sheila has been a part of Queens Park Rangers Football Club for a period spanning four decades and is very much part of our history and is widely respected up and down the country by the footballing community.
She deserves the utmost respect and recognition for her work during this period and QPR1st would like to express our gratitude for everything she has done for the club. QPR1st
Visit the QPR Report Message Board
Of course the source is Charles Sale/Daily Mail
Daily Mail/Charles Sale
"...QPR's deposed secretary Sheila Marson is starting legal proceedings claiming unfair dismissal.
Sheila, 55, who had been at Loftus Road for more than 20 years, alleges she was given no reason for her sacking this week.
But fans are speculating on websites that owner Flavio Briatore wanted her out as she is too old and doesn't fit in with the dolly-bird image he wants to replicate from F1 in his QPR 'project'." Mail
Statement from QPR1st Over Her Departure
Sheila Marson - November 25, 2008
QPR1st are saddened and shocked to hear of the news that club secretary Sheila Marson has left the club.
Sheila has been a part of Queens Park Rangers Football Club for a period spanning four decades and is very much part of our history and is widely respected up and down the country by the footballing community.
She deserves the utmost respect and recognition for her work during this period and QPR1st would like to express our gratitude for everything she has done for the club. QPR1st
Visit the QPR Report Message Board
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Only from Bolton Learn "Helguson has finally completed a loan move [to QPR]"
-
Reading QPR's Official site, you would never know that there had been any problem with the transfer since it was announced as having been completed last week. Instead from QPR you get today the risible ostensible Helguson quote "When QPR showed their interest in me, I didn't hesitate in making the move."
Bolton Official Site - Heidar Is A Loan Ranger
Wed 26 Nov 2008
HEIDAR HELGUSON has finally completed a loan move to Coca Cola Championship outfit Queens Park Rangers.
The Iceland international will stay at Loftus Road until the 1st of January.
Since arriving at the Reebok Stadium in the summer of 2007 from Fulham, the 31 year-old has made 10 appearances for Wanderers, netting two goals. Bolton
QPR's Way of Ensuring People KNEW that Helguson was now at QPR was this post today. Nothing about he had just signed; and that the announcement last week from last week had become, for a while "inoperative."
QPR OFFICIAL SITE HELGUSON RARING TO GO -
November 26, 2008 = Buoyed by his recent goalscoring exploits for Iceland, Heidar Helguson is raring to go in a QPR shirt.
The 31 year-old, who could make his Rangers debut against Crystal Palace this weekend, can't wait to prove himself to the R's faithful.
"This is a good opportunity for me to play some First Team football," the Bolton Wanderers loanee told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I need to be playing regular football and hopefully I'll get the chance to do that here.
When QPR showed their interest in me, I didn't hesitate in making the move."
A scorer at Championship level for Watford in the past, Helguson is confident he can score the goals to fire Rangers up the Championship table.
"I've been brought here to score goals," he added.
"Of course it could take time to settle, like it does at any Club, but I am confident I can produce the goods for QPR."
Helguson will wear squad number 27. QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Reading QPR's Official site, you would never know that there had been any problem with the transfer since it was announced as having been completed last week. Instead from QPR you get today the risible ostensible Helguson quote "When QPR showed their interest in me, I didn't hesitate in making the move."
Bolton Official Site - Heidar Is A Loan Ranger
Wed 26 Nov 2008
HEIDAR HELGUSON has finally completed a loan move to Coca Cola Championship outfit Queens Park Rangers.
The Iceland international will stay at Loftus Road until the 1st of January.
Since arriving at the Reebok Stadium in the summer of 2007 from Fulham, the 31 year-old has made 10 appearances for Wanderers, netting two goals. Bolton
QPR's Way of Ensuring People KNEW that Helguson was now at QPR was this post today. Nothing about he had just signed; and that the announcement last week from last week had become, for a while "inoperative."
QPR OFFICIAL SITE HELGUSON RARING TO GO -
November 26, 2008 = Buoyed by his recent goalscoring exploits for Iceland, Heidar Helguson is raring to go in a QPR shirt.
The 31 year-old, who could make his Rangers debut against Crystal Palace this weekend, can't wait to prove himself to the R's faithful.
"This is a good opportunity for me to play some First Team football," the Bolton Wanderers loanee told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I need to be playing regular football and hopefully I'll get the chance to do that here.
When QPR showed their interest in me, I didn't hesitate in making the move."
A scorer at Championship level for Watford in the past, Helguson is confident he can score the goals to fire Rangers up the Championship table.
"I've been brought here to score goals," he added.
"Of course it could take time to settle, like it does at any Club, but I am confident I can produce the goods for QPR."
Helguson will wear squad number 27. QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Confirmation: Coventry Defender Gary Borrowdale (and Helguson) Joins QPR (Loan)
-
QPR Official Site - BORROWDALE JOINS ON LOAN
- Queens Park Rangers Football Club is pleased to confirm the emergency loan signing of Coventry City defender Gary Borrowdale.
- The 23 year-old left back has put pen to paper on a deal until 31st December 2008, and is in contention to make his R's debut against former Club, Crystal Palace, on Saturday.
- Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Borrowdale expressed his delight at the move, commenting: "I'm really pleased to be here - it's a great move for me.
- "Things have gone a bit stale for me since the change in management at Coventry, but I've got every belief in my own ability and I'm confident I'll be a success here."
- Borrowdale added: "It's a fresh start for me and I'm looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead." QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE HELGUSON RARING TO GO -
Buoyed by his recent goalscoring exploits for Iceland, Heidar Helguson is raring to go in a QPR shirt.
The 31 year-old, who could make his Rangers debut against Crystal Palace this weekend, can't wait to prove himself to the R's faithful.
"This is a good opportunity for me to play some First Team football," the Bolton Wanderers loanee told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I need to be playing regular football and hopefully I'll get the chance to do that here.
When QPR showed their interest in me, I didn't hesitate in making the move."
A scorer at Championship level for Watford in the past, Helguson is confident he can score the goals to fire Rangers up the Championship table.
"I've been brought here to score goals," he added.
"Of course it could take time to settle, like it does at any Club, but I am confident I can produce the goods for QPR."
Helguson will wear squad number 27. QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
QPR Official Site - BORROWDALE JOINS ON LOAN
- Queens Park Rangers Football Club is pleased to confirm the emergency loan signing of Coventry City defender Gary Borrowdale.
- The 23 year-old left back has put pen to paper on a deal until 31st December 2008, and is in contention to make his R's debut against former Club, Crystal Palace, on Saturday.
- Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Borrowdale expressed his delight at the move, commenting: "I'm really pleased to be here - it's a great move for me.
- "Things have gone a bit stale for me since the change in management at Coventry, but I've got every belief in my own ability and I'm confident I'll be a success here."
- Borrowdale added: "It's a fresh start for me and I'm looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead." QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE HELGUSON RARING TO GO -
Buoyed by his recent goalscoring exploits for Iceland, Heidar Helguson is raring to go in a QPR shirt.
The 31 year-old, who could make his Rangers debut against Crystal Palace this weekend, can't wait to prove himself to the R's faithful.
"This is a good opportunity for me to play some First Team football," the Bolton Wanderers loanee told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I need to be playing regular football and hopefully I'll get the chance to do that here.
When QPR showed their interest in me, I didn't hesitate in making the move."
A scorer at Championship level for Watford in the past, Helguson is confident he can score the goals to fire Rangers up the Championship table.
"I've been brought here to score goals," he added.
"Of course it could take time to settle, like it does at any Club, but I am confident I can produce the goods for QPR."
Helguson will wear squad number 27. QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Snippet: Football Expert David Mellor on QPR's Situation
-
David Mellor/The Standard
"...Flavio has to splash the cash
Who'd be a QPR fan? They must have thought Christmas had come early when three of the world's wealthiest men, Flavio Briatore, Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal bought their club.
Instead, all they get from Briatore is a rich man's ego without much rich man's cash.
Come back Gianni Paladini, all is forgiven." The Standard
Also Chris Charles Blog/BBC
"...Over at my crazy club, Paula Sousa became the sixth man to take the reins at QPR since Flavio Briatore and co assumed control 14 months ago. Sousa was quickly christened Keyser by wags on the Loft for Words messageboard, but was powerless to stop the usual suspects crashing 3-0 to Watford. The Portuguese superstar said: "I have always wanted to work for a big club" - hope he gets his wish one day...." BBC
David Mellor/The Standard
"...Flavio has to splash the cash
Who'd be a QPR fan? They must have thought Christmas had come early when three of the world's wealthiest men, Flavio Briatore, Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal bought their club.
Instead, all they get from Briatore is a rich man's ego without much rich man's cash.
Come back Gianni Paladini, all is forgiven." The Standard
Also Chris Charles Blog/BBC
"...Over at my crazy club, Paula Sousa became the sixth man to take the reins at QPR since Flavio Briatore and co assumed control 14 months ago. Sousa was quickly christened Keyser by wags on the Loft for Words messageboard, but was powerless to stop the usual suspects crashing 3-0 to Watford. The Portuguese superstar said: "I have always wanted to work for a big club" - hope he gets his wish one day...." BBC
League Requirement re "Home Grown" Players'?...A Comment on Today's Mirror/Briatore Story...Sousa's Coaching Goals....Hogan's Hopes for Club Stability
-
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for other articles and views -- Football League to Consider Home Grown Rule "...The new rule would require at least four players from clubs' sixteen man matchday squads to have been registered domestically, for a minimum of three seasons, prior to their 21st birthday...."
- Football 365 Media Watch comments on today's Mirror article by Oliver Holt re Briatore [Oliver Holt's original Mirror Story Highlighted
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Sousa sets out to instill confidence- NEW QPR coach Paulo Sousa intends to focus on improving the players at his disposal rather than seeking to replace them in January.
Sousa watched from the stands at Vicarage Road as Rangers slumped to an embarrassing 3-0 defeat, but he stated afterwards: "I know what I need to do and I know the results are coming.
"I believe in the players. The changes are coming with these players - I think they don't have confidence in themselves and they need to work very hard.
"I'm here with a medium to long-term project, to build a solid base and get us to the Premier League. When you go to the Premier League, without a base you go down."
Sousa's plans to work with his current players rather than seeking yet more changes to the squad is highly admirable - yet the sad reality is that he, like his predecessors, will have little or no say on those issues.
The former Portugal midfielder has appointed countryman Bruno Oliveira - who is only 30 - as his assistant, with Tim Flowers, who had been number two to Iain Dowie, departing Loftus Road last week.
Gareth Ainsworth, who acted as caretaker manager following Dowie's sacking, has reverted to his original roles as player-coach and reserve team boss.
Sousa added: "My thanks to Gareth for his hard work in those three weeks, he received me very well and worked very hard to give me the best reports."
Chief scout Filippo Orlando, who was appointed just over a year ago, has also left the club following Sousa's arrival. Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Hogan Ephraim Now stick with him!
HOGAN Ephraim is pleading for stability at QPR following the arrival of Paulo Sousa - the SIXTH boss he has played for in just over a year.
The Portuguese picked up his first win as Rangers coach on Tuesday night - a fortuitous 2-1 victory over strugglers Charlton at Loftus Road, courtesy of a Dexter Blackstock double.
Ephraim, whose cross set up Blackstock's winner 11 minutes from time, told the Times: "Including my loan here, I've had six different managers. To be quite honest, that's crazy.
"You want stability at the club - you don't want to be walking into the changing room and no-one knows what's happening from one day to the next.
"We keep saying 'it's a tight unit, a family' and then it breaks up every so often because the manager's gone. So we definitely need to make it happen now and concentrate on pushing for the play-offs and higher.
"Hopefully we can now have stability on and off the pitch. All we know is that Paulo Sousa's the manager at the present time and hopefully he'll be here for two and a half years, if not longer.
"I think with his character he'll be here for a while. He's very assertive and wants it done his way - he demands respect and, being the sort of player he was, you have to give him that respect.
"Watford was a disgrace. We knew from the fans' reaction that we had to put in a good performance, the manager demanded that and we showed amazing character."
Despite Ephraim's assertion, it was hard to escape the conclusion that Blackstock's brace got Rangers out of jail after they had toiled lamely against a managerless Charlton side.
The ex-Southampton striker has netted almost half of QPR's league goals this season - underlining the sheer lunacy of Flavio Briatore's plans to sell him in January. Kilburn Times
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for other articles and views -- Football League to Consider Home Grown Rule "...The new rule would require at least four players from clubs' sixteen man matchday squads to have been registered domestically, for a minimum of three seasons, prior to their 21st birthday...."
- Football 365 Media Watch comments on today's Mirror article by Oliver Holt re Briatore [Oliver Holt's original Mirror Story Highlighted
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Sousa sets out to instill confidence- NEW QPR coach Paulo Sousa intends to focus on improving the players at his disposal rather than seeking to replace them in January.
Sousa watched from the stands at Vicarage Road as Rangers slumped to an embarrassing 3-0 defeat, but he stated afterwards: "I know what I need to do and I know the results are coming.
"I believe in the players. The changes are coming with these players - I think they don't have confidence in themselves and they need to work very hard.
"I'm here with a medium to long-term project, to build a solid base and get us to the Premier League. When you go to the Premier League, without a base you go down."
Sousa's plans to work with his current players rather than seeking yet more changes to the squad is highly admirable - yet the sad reality is that he, like his predecessors, will have little or no say on those issues.
The former Portugal midfielder has appointed countryman Bruno Oliveira - who is only 30 - as his assistant, with Tim Flowers, who had been number two to Iain Dowie, departing Loftus Road last week.
Gareth Ainsworth, who acted as caretaker manager following Dowie's sacking, has reverted to his original roles as player-coach and reserve team boss.
Sousa added: "My thanks to Gareth for his hard work in those three weeks, he received me very well and worked very hard to give me the best reports."
Chief scout Filippo Orlando, who was appointed just over a year ago, has also left the club following Sousa's arrival. Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Hogan Ephraim Now stick with him!
HOGAN Ephraim is pleading for stability at QPR following the arrival of Paulo Sousa - the SIXTH boss he has played for in just over a year.
The Portuguese picked up his first win as Rangers coach on Tuesday night - a fortuitous 2-1 victory over strugglers Charlton at Loftus Road, courtesy of a Dexter Blackstock double.
Ephraim, whose cross set up Blackstock's winner 11 minutes from time, told the Times: "Including my loan here, I've had six different managers. To be quite honest, that's crazy.
"You want stability at the club - you don't want to be walking into the changing room and no-one knows what's happening from one day to the next.
"We keep saying 'it's a tight unit, a family' and then it breaks up every so often because the manager's gone. So we definitely need to make it happen now and concentrate on pushing for the play-offs and higher.
"Hopefully we can now have stability on and off the pitch. All we know is that Paulo Sousa's the manager at the present time and hopefully he'll be here for two and a half years, if not longer.
"I think with his character he'll be here for a while. He's very assertive and wants it done his way - he demands respect and, being the sort of player he was, you have to give him that respect.
"Watford was a disgrace. We knew from the fans' reaction that we had to put in a good performance, the manager demanded that and we showed amazing character."
Despite Ephraim's assertion, it was hard to escape the conclusion that Blackstock's brace got Rangers out of jail after they had toiled lamely against a managerless Charlton side.
The ex-Southampton striker has netted almost half of QPR's league goals this season - underlining the sheer lunacy of Flavio Briatore's plans to sell him in January. Kilburn Times
Helping Blackstock and Signing Borrowdale
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Dave McIntyre BBC606 - Feed Blackstock and he will score
- It’s very early days, but Paulo Sousa got his first real judgement call spot-on.
- Dexter Blackstock not only secured an important win for QPR last night, he also justified an immediate change made by his new coach.
- This season Blackstock’s role has largely been about working for the team, often as a lone forward.
- It's not been an easy task and he has had his detractors – both in the directors’ box and elsewhere.
- But after a very short time to assess his players, Sousa wants the emphasis shifted from Blackstock’s job for the team to the team’s job for Blackstock.
- He wants the team to work for their main striker, not the other way around, and Sousa was immediately repaid with two well-taken goals from Blackstock against Charlton.
- Blackstock is a more reliable striker than many give him credit for.
- His form was poor for much of last season, partly because of an untimely injury and a subsequent dip in confidence.
- But a striker who scores 14 goals as a 20-year-old in his first full campaign in League football shouldn't be underestimated – especially when those goals are scored for a struggling club.
- When Blackstock got those crucial goals in crucial matches, he not only helped to keep Rangers up and proved he can score at Championship level, he also proved he can deliver in high-pressure matches.
- For such a young forward, those were great signs for the future.
- Last season was a disappointment, but all strikers suffer losses of form and four goals in seven games during the run-in again suggested he is a 20-goal Championship striker in the making.
- For much of last season and the current one, he has been asked to perform a role for the team at his own expense.
- His excellent work rate aside, Blackstock lacked the attributes of a lone striker, whose task is often a thankless one and involves bringing the best out of other players.
- He rarely lets Rangers down. When he gets the service he scores, as he showed during a purple patch when Lee Cook was on top form before his move to Fulham.
- Blackstock delivered again against Charlton, scoring twice to take his tally for the season to nine - leaving him on course for the 20-goal mark.
- He has now scored 13 goals in 28 games. That's not bad for a forward who hasn't been in the best form and played many of those games alone up front.
- Sousa wanted him in the box on the end of chances and he did not disappoint, first burying a cross from Damiano Tomassi and later heading in a cross from Hogan Ephraim.
- And he almost completed a hat-trick with a diving header that went wide.
- When was the last time a Rangers side provided Blackstock with that kind of service? It hasn’t happened often.
- Rangers should celebrate Blackstock; a young, English striker trying to make a name for himself.
- He will need to take his game up a level to stay in a team capable of challenging for promotion, but Rangers are some distance from that stage and he is still developing nicely. It’s easy to forget he is still only 22.
- Sadly, others aren’t faring so well at the moment.
A switch to a wide position has not helped Dani Parejo, who is still struggling.
And with Coventry full-back Gary Borrowdale being lined up for a move to Loftus Road, Damien Delaney needed to produce a better performance.
His display was an improvement on Saturday’s shocker at Watford but Delaney, who has done quite well for Rangers, is having a really bad spell.
Borrowdale, a former England Under-21 international, is set to join on loan with a view to a permanent move for an undisclosed fee when the transfer window opens in January.
He joined Coventry from Crystal Palace for around £650,000 in July last year but has since lost his first-team place.
Borrowdale was recently told he could leave if another club came in for him and that alerted Rangers, who were interested in signing him last January but were told he would cost £1.5million - BBC606
SKY SPORT -Rangers target Sky Blues ace
Sousa could make defender first signing
- Skysports.com understands Queens Park Rangers are lining up a move for Coventry defender Gary Borrowdale.
- Borrowdale is well down the pecking order at the Ricoh Arena and Sky Blues boss Chris Coleman is willing to let him leave.
- The 23-year-old has not featured for Coventry this season and spent a month on loan at Colchester last month.
- The news has alerted QPR to Borrowdale's availability and they are ready to bring him to Loftus Road.
- Rangers are ready to sign Borrowdale initially on loan with a view to a permanent deal.
If Rangers tie up a deal for the versatile defender he will become new boss Paulo Sousa's first signing since taking charge at Loftus Road." Sky Sports
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional articles of interest and to express your own views.]
Dave McIntyre BBC606 - Feed Blackstock and he will score
- It’s very early days, but Paulo Sousa got his first real judgement call spot-on.
- Dexter Blackstock not only secured an important win for QPR last night, he also justified an immediate change made by his new coach.
- This season Blackstock’s role has largely been about working for the team, often as a lone forward.
- It's not been an easy task and he has had his detractors – both in the directors’ box and elsewhere.
- But after a very short time to assess his players, Sousa wants the emphasis shifted from Blackstock’s job for the team to the team’s job for Blackstock.
- He wants the team to work for their main striker, not the other way around, and Sousa was immediately repaid with two well-taken goals from Blackstock against Charlton.
- Blackstock is a more reliable striker than many give him credit for.
- His form was poor for much of last season, partly because of an untimely injury and a subsequent dip in confidence.
- But a striker who scores 14 goals as a 20-year-old in his first full campaign in League football shouldn't be underestimated – especially when those goals are scored for a struggling club.
- When Blackstock got those crucial goals in crucial matches, he not only helped to keep Rangers up and proved he can score at Championship level, he also proved he can deliver in high-pressure matches.
- For such a young forward, those were great signs for the future.
- Last season was a disappointment, but all strikers suffer losses of form and four goals in seven games during the run-in again suggested he is a 20-goal Championship striker in the making.
- For much of last season and the current one, he has been asked to perform a role for the team at his own expense.
- His excellent work rate aside, Blackstock lacked the attributes of a lone striker, whose task is often a thankless one and involves bringing the best out of other players.
- He rarely lets Rangers down. When he gets the service he scores, as he showed during a purple patch when Lee Cook was on top form before his move to Fulham.
- Blackstock delivered again against Charlton, scoring twice to take his tally for the season to nine - leaving him on course for the 20-goal mark.
- He has now scored 13 goals in 28 games. That's not bad for a forward who hasn't been in the best form and played many of those games alone up front.
- Sousa wanted him in the box on the end of chances and he did not disappoint, first burying a cross from Damiano Tomassi and later heading in a cross from Hogan Ephraim.
- And he almost completed a hat-trick with a diving header that went wide.
- When was the last time a Rangers side provided Blackstock with that kind of service? It hasn’t happened often.
- Rangers should celebrate Blackstock; a young, English striker trying to make a name for himself.
- He will need to take his game up a level to stay in a team capable of challenging for promotion, but Rangers are some distance from that stage and he is still developing nicely. It’s easy to forget he is still only 22.
- Sadly, others aren’t faring so well at the moment.
A switch to a wide position has not helped Dani Parejo, who is still struggling.
And with Coventry full-back Gary Borrowdale being lined up for a move to Loftus Road, Damien Delaney needed to produce a better performance.
His display was an improvement on Saturday’s shocker at Watford but Delaney, who has done quite well for Rangers, is having a really bad spell.
Borrowdale, a former England Under-21 international, is set to join on loan with a view to a permanent move for an undisclosed fee when the transfer window opens in January.
He joined Coventry from Crystal Palace for around £650,000 in July last year but has since lost his first-team place.
Borrowdale was recently told he could leave if another club came in for him and that alerted Rangers, who were interested in signing him last January but were told he would cost £1.5million - BBC606
SKY SPORT -Rangers target Sky Blues ace
Sousa could make defender first signing
- Skysports.com understands Queens Park Rangers are lining up a move for Coventry defender Gary Borrowdale.
- Borrowdale is well down the pecking order at the Ricoh Arena and Sky Blues boss Chris Coleman is willing to let him leave.
- The 23-year-old has not featured for Coventry this season and spent a month on loan at Colchester last month.
- The news has alerted QPR to Borrowdale's availability and they are ready to bring him to Loftus Road.
- Rangers are ready to sign Borrowdale initially on loan with a view to a permanent deal.
If Rangers tie up a deal for the versatile defender he will become new boss Paulo Sousa's first signing since taking charge at Loftus Road." Sky Sports
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional articles of interest and to express your own views.]
A Tribute to Axed QPR Club Secretary Sheila Marson
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Unfortunately, just not from Queen's Park Rangers Football Club. It would be nice if there was a joint QPR fan groups "Thanks to Sheila" statement.
Kilburn Times - Thanks for your help, Sheila
-CLUB secretary Sheila Marson was sacked by QPR this week after more than 30 years of service at Loftus Road.
- Rangers' official website stated: "The details surrounding Ms Marson's departure are confidential and therefore it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this stage."
- It's sad that the people now ruling the roost at Rangers are too mean-spirited to even offer any words of thanks for Sheila's years of loyal service.
- However, the Times would like to place on record our appreciation for Sheila's help over the years. We always found her a friendly person and efficient administrator - and genuinely part of the rapidly-diminishing Queens Park Rangers 'family'.
- Thank you, Sheila, and all the best for the future. Kilburn Times
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional posts and comments.
Unfortunately, just not from Queen's Park Rangers Football Club. It would be nice if there was a joint QPR fan groups "Thanks to Sheila" statement.
Kilburn Times - Thanks for your help, Sheila
-CLUB secretary Sheila Marson was sacked by QPR this week after more than 30 years of service at Loftus Road.
- Rangers' official website stated: "The details surrounding Ms Marson's departure are confidential and therefore it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this stage."
- It's sad that the people now ruling the roost at Rangers are too mean-spirited to even offer any words of thanks for Sheila's years of loyal service.
- However, the Times would like to place on record our appreciation for Sheila's help over the years. We always found her a friendly person and efficient administrator - and genuinely part of the rapidly-diminishing Queens Park Rangers 'family'.
- Thank you, Sheila, and all the best for the future. Kilburn Times
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional posts and comments.
In Defense of Flavio Briatore... Briatore Responds re His QPR Team Involvement
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- After some considerable negative press about him, a defender steps forward: The Mirror's Oliver Holt (The second half of the article is the QPR-relevant half.)
--- [Note: Back in January, Holt wrote a piece entitled "Bernie's In a Hurry". And last December, Holt
had a Mirror Exclusive "Ecclestone and Briatore exclusive"
--- For additional articles and views, visit the QPR Report Messageboard: --- Will QPR be Reducing Ticket or Club Shop Prices?
The Mirror/Oliver HoltTrust Flavio to get it right for promotion at QPR, with no jacket required.
Back in the 1990s, whenever the Belgian Grand Prix came around, a little group of us used to take Eddie Jordan out for dinner at a restaurant called Le Roannay in Francorchamps.
-One year, when QPR wasn't even a twinkle in their eyes, Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore came over and sat with us for a while.
- Both men, as always, were great company and much of the talk was of the feud between Briatore's star driver at Benetton, Michael Schumacher, and Damon Hill.
It was a turbulent time and Briatore was also involved in one of a series of spats with FIA president Max Mosley.
There was some mention of a letter Flavio had in his possession that was of great significance, and much jocularity about what the journalists among us would give to get a peek at it. Briatore was one of the first to leave. He got up, took a jacket off the back of a chair and bade his farewells.
I got back to my hotel, deep in the Ardennes, well into the early hours.
Soon after 7am, my phone started ringing.
I ignored it. The calls kept coming.
In the end, I picked up. It was one of Flavio's most trusted employees.
"Mr Briatore has your jacket," she said. But that wasn't what she was bothered about. Because if he had mine, the chances were I had his.
I checked the jacket I'd chucked on the floor when I'd staggered in. It was better quality than mine. Way better. And there was an envelope in the pocket with an FIA crest on it.
I went back to the phone and said I had the jacket. I said I'd bring it in to the circuit later that morning.
"That's okay," the Benetton lady said, "we'll send someone out to get it." I told her my hotel was way out in the sticks. More like a guest house, anyway. They'd never find it. "We'll find it," she said.
I didn't look inside the envelope before they arrived. Probably because it was sealed and I didn't have a steam iron handy.
But maybe also because I figured that whatever was inside it, Briatore would come out on the winning side at the end of it all.
Everything he has touched has turned to gold in F1. He built a brilliant team around him at Benetton on much scarcer resources than more established teams like Ferrari and Williams. And he built his team from scratch. More recently, he led Fernando Alonso to world titles with Renault.
- So I don't recognise the descriptions of Briatore that have been circulating for the last few weeks as some sort of megalomaniac nutter poking his nose in and ruining what's left of a lovely old club like QPR, where he and Ecclestone are now part-owners.
- He's a ruthless man, certainly, and he clearly lost confidence very quickly in the ability of Iain Dowie, who was sacked as manager last month.
But if Briatore's incredible success in Formula One has been based on anything, it's his talent for delegation.
- He wasn't an expert in Grand Prix racing when he arrived at Benetton, so he hired people who were.
- The same thing applies to football.
- He's not daft enough to think he can run QPR, pick the team and score the goals. But he will find people who can.
- I spoke to him yesterday as he was about to set off for last night's match against Charlton and he laughed at the idea he'd told Dowie who he could and couldn't pick. -
"I had a conversation with Iain Dowie after the game at Swansea where their goalkeeper was carried off," Briatore said.
- "They didn't have a goalkeeper on the bench so they had to put an outfield player in instead but we still didn't have a shot on goal. I think it's normal to talk about that. It was talking, not dictating.
- "The last thing I want to do is be a coach. I'm too busy for that.
- Nothing changes in the way I work.
- "I'm good at delegating. I'm good at giving power to my people, but I only give power when I feel the people deserve power.
- "Now I've got someone like that in our new coach, Paulo Sousa. He's intelligent and he's normal. It's difficult to find people with those two qualities in football."
- So I don't have any fears for the long-term health of QPR. The main thing about Briatore and Ecclestone is that they don't like losing.
- They find a way to win and they don't care if their methods make them unpopular along the way.
- I'd put money on them getting promoted to the Premier League by the end of next season, a year ahead of Briatore's schedule.
- When he makes a mistake, he's very good at putting it right. The jacket doesn't stay off his back for long.
- Flavio's not daft enough to think he can pick the team, score the goals. He will find people who can. The Mirror
- After some considerable negative press about him, a defender steps forward: The Mirror's Oliver Holt (The second half of the article is the QPR-relevant half.)
--- [Note: Back in January, Holt wrote a piece entitled "Bernie's In a Hurry". And last December, Holt
had a Mirror Exclusive "Ecclestone and Briatore exclusive"
--- For additional articles and views, visit the QPR Report Messageboard: --- Will QPR be Reducing Ticket or Club Shop Prices?
The Mirror/Oliver HoltTrust Flavio to get it right for promotion at QPR, with no jacket required.
Back in the 1990s, whenever the Belgian Grand Prix came around, a little group of us used to take Eddie Jordan out for dinner at a restaurant called Le Roannay in Francorchamps.
-One year, when QPR wasn't even a twinkle in their eyes, Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore came over and sat with us for a while.
- Both men, as always, were great company and much of the talk was of the feud between Briatore's star driver at Benetton, Michael Schumacher, and Damon Hill.
It was a turbulent time and Briatore was also involved in one of a series of spats with FIA president Max Mosley.
There was some mention of a letter Flavio had in his possession that was of great significance, and much jocularity about what the journalists among us would give to get a peek at it. Briatore was one of the first to leave. He got up, took a jacket off the back of a chair and bade his farewells.
I got back to my hotel, deep in the Ardennes, well into the early hours.
Soon after 7am, my phone started ringing.
I ignored it. The calls kept coming.
In the end, I picked up. It was one of Flavio's most trusted employees.
"Mr Briatore has your jacket," she said. But that wasn't what she was bothered about. Because if he had mine, the chances were I had his.
I checked the jacket I'd chucked on the floor when I'd staggered in. It was better quality than mine. Way better. And there was an envelope in the pocket with an FIA crest on it.
I went back to the phone and said I had the jacket. I said I'd bring it in to the circuit later that morning.
"That's okay," the Benetton lady said, "we'll send someone out to get it." I told her my hotel was way out in the sticks. More like a guest house, anyway. They'd never find it. "We'll find it," she said.
I didn't look inside the envelope before they arrived. Probably because it was sealed and I didn't have a steam iron handy.
But maybe also because I figured that whatever was inside it, Briatore would come out on the winning side at the end of it all.
Everything he has touched has turned to gold in F1. He built a brilliant team around him at Benetton on much scarcer resources than more established teams like Ferrari and Williams. And he built his team from scratch. More recently, he led Fernando Alonso to world titles with Renault.
- So I don't recognise the descriptions of Briatore that have been circulating for the last few weeks as some sort of megalomaniac nutter poking his nose in and ruining what's left of a lovely old club like QPR, where he and Ecclestone are now part-owners.
- He's a ruthless man, certainly, and he clearly lost confidence very quickly in the ability of Iain Dowie, who was sacked as manager last month.
But if Briatore's incredible success in Formula One has been based on anything, it's his talent for delegation.
- He wasn't an expert in Grand Prix racing when he arrived at Benetton, so he hired people who were.
- The same thing applies to football.
- He's not daft enough to think he can run QPR, pick the team and score the goals. But he will find people who can.
- I spoke to him yesterday as he was about to set off for last night's match against Charlton and he laughed at the idea he'd told Dowie who he could and couldn't pick. -
"I had a conversation with Iain Dowie after the game at Swansea where their goalkeeper was carried off," Briatore said.
- "They didn't have a goalkeeper on the bench so they had to put an outfield player in instead but we still didn't have a shot on goal. I think it's normal to talk about that. It was talking, not dictating.
- "The last thing I want to do is be a coach. I'm too busy for that.
- Nothing changes in the way I work.
- "I'm good at delegating. I'm good at giving power to my people, but I only give power when I feel the people deserve power.
- "Now I've got someone like that in our new coach, Paulo Sousa. He's intelligent and he's normal. It's difficult to find people with those two qualities in football."
- So I don't have any fears for the long-term health of QPR. The main thing about Briatore and Ecclestone is that they don't like losing.
- They find a way to win and they don't care if their methods make them unpopular along the way.
- I'd put money on them getting promoted to the Premier League by the end of next season, a year ahead of Briatore's schedule.
- When he makes a mistake, he's very good at putting it right. The jacket doesn't stay off his back for long.
- Flavio's not daft enough to think he can pick the team, score the goals. He will find people who can. The Mirror
After a Week of Sturm und Drang: Bolton's Helguson Joins QPR!
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- So Heidar Helguson is joining QPR on loan! Of course, many readers of messageboards would know about this revived deal. But then again, pretty much only messageboard readers would even be aware of all the Sturm und Drang of the past week; and that Heguson wasn't already at QPR. According to the two clubs' official sites, the deal was done and dusted - and announced - almost a week ago.
Also QPR announce that Mikele Leigertwood is suspended for one game (against Wolves!) after collecting his fifth booking of the season. QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for others articles and comments
The Mirror - Striker Heidar Helguson completes QPR loan move
- Bolton striker Heidar Helguson finally signed for QPR on loan yesterday after a switch to Charlton stalled.
- The forward agreed a deal until January 1 when both parties will decide on a permanent move. Helguson's move to Rangers had twice fallen through in disputes over fitness, wages and the length of the loan contract. The Mirror
Marc Iles/This is Lancashire - Helguson loan move nearing a conclusion
- The mysterious case of Heidar Helguson’s loan move away from the Reebok would appear to finally be nearing a conclusion.
The Iceland international found himself in limbo over the weekend after rejecting a transfer to Loftus Road at the 11th hour on Friday afternoon.
Both clubs had earlier announced that the deal had been completed – but when he failed to appear for the Hoops’ defeat to Watford on Saturday, Charlton Athletic launched a rival bid of their own. The Addicks’ offer was not to Wanderers’ liking and QPR came back with a second bid on Monday morning which is now being mulled over by the 31-year-old striker, pictured.
The mega-rich Championship club then submitted a revised offer – now being considered by the player – which would see Helguson move to London until mid-January.
Having found his first-team opportunities restricted since his £1.5million move from Fulham last summer, the striker is looking for a permanent move away from the Reebok.
His only Premier League appearance this season came as a substitute against his old club and his single start was in the Carling Cup defeat to Northampton Town.
Helguson was linked with loan moves to Norwich, Cardiff and Bristol City before the last transfer window closed. This is Lancashire
- So Heidar Helguson is joining QPR on loan! Of course, many readers of messageboards would know about this revived deal. But then again, pretty much only messageboard readers would even be aware of all the Sturm und Drang of the past week; and that Heguson wasn't already at QPR. According to the two clubs' official sites, the deal was done and dusted - and announced - almost a week ago.
Also QPR announce that Mikele Leigertwood is suspended for one game (against Wolves!) after collecting his fifth booking of the season. QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for others articles and comments
The Mirror - Striker Heidar Helguson completes QPR loan move
- Bolton striker Heidar Helguson finally signed for QPR on loan yesterday after a switch to Charlton stalled.
- The forward agreed a deal until January 1 when both parties will decide on a permanent move. Helguson's move to Rangers had twice fallen through in disputes over fitness, wages and the length of the loan contract. The Mirror
Marc Iles/This is Lancashire - Helguson loan move nearing a conclusion
- The mysterious case of Heidar Helguson’s loan move away from the Reebok would appear to finally be nearing a conclusion.
The Iceland international found himself in limbo over the weekend after rejecting a transfer to Loftus Road at the 11th hour on Friday afternoon.
Both clubs had earlier announced that the deal had been completed – but when he failed to appear for the Hoops’ defeat to Watford on Saturday, Charlton Athletic launched a rival bid of their own. The Addicks’ offer was not to Wanderers’ liking and QPR came back with a second bid on Monday morning which is now being mulled over by the 31-year-old striker, pictured.
The mega-rich Championship club then submitted a revised offer – now being considered by the player – which would see Helguson move to London until mid-January.
Having found his first-team opportunities restricted since his £1.5million move from Fulham last summer, the striker is looking for a permanent move away from the Reebok.
His only Premier League appearance this season came as a substitute against his old club and his single start was in the Carling Cup defeat to Northampton Town.
Helguson was linked with loan moves to Norwich, Cardiff and Bristol City before the last transfer window closed. This is Lancashire
QPR's Win - Additional Reports Compilation
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Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional items of interest and for views
The Times/Kaveh Solhekol -Dexter Blackstock at the double to make Paulo Sousa feel at home
-Dexter Blackstock made sure that Paulo Sousa’s first home game as the Queens Park Rangers first-team coach ended with a victory by scoring twice to keep Charlton Athletic in the relegation zone. Blackstock put QPR ahead in the first half and scored the winning goal ten minutes from time after Charlton had clawed their way back into the game in their first match since Alan Pardew left the club on Saturday.
- Sousa has only had a few days to work with his new players but the former Portugal assistant coach has already made an impact. Sousa was in the stands at Vicarage Road to watch his team’s 3-0 defeat by Watford at the weekend, but this was his first game in charge at Loftus Road.
Against a Charlton team who were smarting from their 5-2 home defeat by Sheffield United on Saturday and the departure “by mutual consent” of Pardew, QPR were bold and enterprising in the early stages and took the lead after 16 minutes thanks to Blackstock’s tap-in from a cross by Damiano Tommasi.
Blackstock’s eighth goal of the season owed as much to bad defending as continental flair — Mark Hudson and Linvoy Primus, the Charlton centre backs, barely moved a muscle as Blackstock raced into the penalty area — but QPR proved that they know a thing or two about atrocious defending 13 minutes later when Charlton equalised against the run of play.
Damion Stewart and Kaspars Gorkss, the QPR defenders, decided to stand back and watch a cross by Hameur Bouazza roll in front of them and were punished when Therry Racon scored his first goal in English football from close range.
Phil Parkinson, the Charlton caretaker manager, had admitted before kick-off that he did not have a clue who would be playing for QPR and it showed. Meanwhile Sousa, who is used to working with players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco, had never seen Charlton play.
QPR continued to struggle with Charlton’s wingers at the start of the second half. Bouazza and Keith Gillespie, on his debut for the South London club after a loan move from Sheffield United, stretched their opponents and Martyn Waghorn and Primus went close to giving Charlton the lead.
Patrick Agyemang helped provide the spark that the QPR attack had hitherto been missing and he went close to scoring three times soon after coming on, his most eye-catching effort a right-foot strike from the edge of the penalty area that just missed the target before Blackstock scored the winning goal. " The Times
The INDEPENDENT/Conrad Leach - Blackstock double lifts Sousa's spirits
- If Queen's Park Rangers's supporters were enthralled by the arrival of their new manager, one boasting two Champions League winners' medals, then they failed to show it. The 12,286 crowd for this derby, with Paulo Sousa meeting the locals for the first time proper, was the west London side's lowest league gate of the season.
- What Flavio Briatore, who helped hire Sousa, made of the lack of enthusiasm is anyone's guess. At the end, the Italian and Sousa had to be grateful for Luke Varney, a Charlton Athletic substitute, volleying over from six yards when unmarked and then Mark Hudson heading wide. They proved costly, as Dexter Blackstock met Hogan Ephraim's cross to head the winner from 12 yards with 10 minutes left.
It was the striker's second goal of the night and even if there were not the numbers to see it, the result made Sousa feel a little bit more at home after only five days in the capital.
Given that Charlton had lost 5-2 at home on Saturday, the result that ended Alan Pardew's tenure at The Valley, and that QPR had lost 3-0 away at Watford the same day, there was little clue as to which way this game would go except that goals would be assured. Only three was a poor return when there should have been more, especially for the visitors, but that is why Charlton are in the relegation zone.
The south London side have now taken three points out of a possible 27 from their past nine games. Their caretaker manager Phil Parkinson acknowledged that his chances of taking the job permanently did not improve with this defeat, although the feeling is that it is still his job to lose.
It is not as if QPR is a stable environment either, with Iain Dowie, who started the season in charge, sacked last month and caretaker Gareth Ainsworth replaced by Sousa last week. But the former Juventus midfielder said that he is determined to try to rebuild the club. The first goal of his reign arrived just after quarter of an hour and although Therry Racon equalised after half an hour, Blackstock's double showed how valuable a confident goalscorer is. He has nine for the campaign.
"I spoke with Dexter and watched his goals from this season with him," Sousa said. "I believe in him and the team can help him to score." After the debacle at Watford, Sousa had still spoken to the press afterwards. This was the chance for his side to show that they understood him and he felt that they responded. The manager's early worries evaporated when Damiano Tommasi crossed from the left after 17 minutes and found Blackstock, who slotted home from eight yards.
QPR's porous defence was exposed after half an hour, when Hameur Bouazza picked out Racon who sidefooted home from close range. The hosts then survived those later misses before Blackstock showed that watching television sometimes can be good for you.
Queen's Park Rangers (4-1-3-2): Cerny, Ramage, Stewart, Gorkss, Delaney, Ephraim, Tommasi (Mahon, 62), Leigertwood, Parejo (Ledesma, 74), Di Carmine (Agyemang, h-t), Blackstock. Substitutes not used: Cole (gk), Oastler.
Charlton (4-4-2): Weaver (gk), Cranie, Primus, Hudson, Youga, Gillespie, Racon, Semedo, Bouazza, Waghorn (Varney, 62), Gray. Substitutes not used: Elliot, Holland, Sam, Fortune. Referee: K Stroud (Hants). The Independent
TELEGRAPH/Sam Green - Dexter Blackstock double for QPR ruins Phil Parkinson's big night for Charlton
- Phil Parkinson's first full audition for the Charlton manager’s job was spoilt on Tuesday night by Paulo Sousa, who was taking charge of Queens Park Rangers for the first time. But there was no shame for Parkinson in defeat by a man who has a hotline to Jose Mourinho.
- Sousa, a former Portugal and Juventus midfielder who has won the Champions League twice, was appointed as Iain Dowie’s successor last week and watched Rangers go down 3-0 at Watford on Saturday.
- But on Tuesday evening his new charges - thanks to a double from Dexter Blackstock - earned a win that put them just one point outside the play-off zone.
- Afterwards Sousa, who was assistant to Luiz Felipe Scolari during the Chelsea manager’s time in charge of Portugal, revealed he has been in regular contact with Mourinho, Scolari’s predecessor at Chelsea.
- “I am proud of what Jose has achieved because he is Portuguese and a winner,” Sousa said. “I want to be a winner too and Jose helps me each day because I speak with him often, but I am going my own way and am confident in myself.”
- Sousa, who was too smart to be cajoled into talking about QPR’s promotion credentials, was full of praise for both his own players and Charlton’s.
- Indeed the south London side deserved more from their first game after Alan Pardew’s departure, some £1 million better off, from the Valley.
- Saturday’s shambolic 5-2 home defeat by Sheffield United, which left Charlton in the relegation places, was the death blow for Pardew.
- Alan Curbishley has been linked with a return, while Billy Davies, Lawrie Sanchez and Martin Allen are said to be interested. But the feeling is that Parkinson, Pardew’s assistant, will be given a chance.
- Parkinson had already expressed his desire to return to management, but he refused to be drawn again last night and said he had been given no indication of his chances by the board.
- “It’s been a traumatic week, and at the moment it’s my responsibility to put together some performances that the club will be proud of,” he said, before admitting that he would need points to land the job. “Results are everything in football and while everyone could see this was a good performance, we need some wins,” he said.
- It was QPR who drew first blood, Damiano Tommasi crossing from the left for the unmarked Blackstock to steer home.
- But Charlton levelled on the half-hour after a penetrating run by 33-year-old winger Keith Gillespie, making his debut after joining on loan from Sheffield United. Hameur Bouazza provided the final pass and Therry Racon drilled home his first goal for the club.
- Damien Delaney prevented a second Charlton goal just after the break, blocking Martin Waghorn’s close-range shot after more good work by Bouazza.
- Linvoy Primus then went close for the visitors with a half-volley and Charlton captain Mark Hudson’s header flashed wide with13 minutes left, but QPR scored the winner soon after
- From Hogan Ephraim’s cross Blackstock netted with an adroit looping header, his ninth goal of the season, and moments later he almost completed his hat-trick with diving header. Telegraph
The Mirror/Lee West - Special won for new boss
JOSE SHOWED THE WAY SAYS SOUSA
- New Qpr boss Paulo Sousa edged a lucky win in his first match in the dug-out - thanks to Dexter Blackstock and Jose Mourinho.
Two-goal striker Blackstock saved Rangers, smacking home the opener after 17 minutes and heading in the winner 10 minutes from time.
But the megabucks Hoops were otherwise outplayed by managerless Charlton, who only had Therry Racon's 30th-minute equaliser to show for their efforts.
Portuguese coach Sousa revealed afterwards that he had been taking coaching tips from his pal and former Chelsea boss Mourinho.
Sousa, who watched Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Watford from the stands, said: "I'm proud of Jose as he's a Portuguese coach and he's a winner. I want to be a winner too.
"He helped me and I speak with him often as he has more experience than me. But I'm going my way and I know and believe in what I can do.
"It's not easy when you lose 3-0 in the previous game. You need to be very strong to change after this."
But this was a sloppy performance by Rangers in front of the club's lowest league crowd of the season - just 12,286.
Charlton caretaker boss Phil Parkinson, in charge after Alan Pardew's sacking on Saturday, vowed to lead his club out of the relegation zone - if the Addicks board gives him the chance.
"If they keep playing the way they did tonight, results will come," he said. "Everybody can see we played well and I'm confident we will win games."
Awful marking allowed Blackstock to put Rangers ahead, side-footing home Damiano Tommasi's cross.
But Charlton bossed the rest of the first half with Martyn Waghorn shooting wide before Hameur Bouazza's pull-back was slotted in by Racon.
Charlton pressed after the break, with Hoops defender Damien Delaney making a goal-saving tackle on Waghorn and Linvoy Primus volleying just over.
But Blackstock popped up to put Rangers in front 10 minutes from time, leaping highest to meet Hogan Ephraim's cross and loop a header over Nicky Weaver into the net. The Mirror
See also: Earlier Reports and comments
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional items of interest and for views
The Times/Kaveh Solhekol -Dexter Blackstock at the double to make Paulo Sousa feel at home
-Dexter Blackstock made sure that Paulo Sousa’s first home game as the Queens Park Rangers first-team coach ended with a victory by scoring twice to keep Charlton Athletic in the relegation zone. Blackstock put QPR ahead in the first half and scored the winning goal ten minutes from time after Charlton had clawed their way back into the game in their first match since Alan Pardew left the club on Saturday.
- Sousa has only had a few days to work with his new players but the former Portugal assistant coach has already made an impact. Sousa was in the stands at Vicarage Road to watch his team’s 3-0 defeat by Watford at the weekend, but this was his first game in charge at Loftus Road.
Against a Charlton team who were smarting from their 5-2 home defeat by Sheffield United on Saturday and the departure “by mutual consent” of Pardew, QPR were bold and enterprising in the early stages and took the lead after 16 minutes thanks to Blackstock’s tap-in from a cross by Damiano Tommasi.
Blackstock’s eighth goal of the season owed as much to bad defending as continental flair — Mark Hudson and Linvoy Primus, the Charlton centre backs, barely moved a muscle as Blackstock raced into the penalty area — but QPR proved that they know a thing or two about atrocious defending 13 minutes later when Charlton equalised against the run of play.
Damion Stewart and Kaspars Gorkss, the QPR defenders, decided to stand back and watch a cross by Hameur Bouazza roll in front of them and were punished when Therry Racon scored his first goal in English football from close range.
Phil Parkinson, the Charlton caretaker manager, had admitted before kick-off that he did not have a clue who would be playing for QPR and it showed. Meanwhile Sousa, who is used to working with players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco, had never seen Charlton play.
QPR continued to struggle with Charlton’s wingers at the start of the second half. Bouazza and Keith Gillespie, on his debut for the South London club after a loan move from Sheffield United, stretched their opponents and Martyn Waghorn and Primus went close to giving Charlton the lead.
Patrick Agyemang helped provide the spark that the QPR attack had hitherto been missing and he went close to scoring three times soon after coming on, his most eye-catching effort a right-foot strike from the edge of the penalty area that just missed the target before Blackstock scored the winning goal. " The Times
The INDEPENDENT/Conrad Leach - Blackstock double lifts Sousa's spirits
- If Queen's Park Rangers's supporters were enthralled by the arrival of their new manager, one boasting two Champions League winners' medals, then they failed to show it. The 12,286 crowd for this derby, with Paulo Sousa meeting the locals for the first time proper, was the west London side's lowest league gate of the season.
- What Flavio Briatore, who helped hire Sousa, made of the lack of enthusiasm is anyone's guess. At the end, the Italian and Sousa had to be grateful for Luke Varney, a Charlton Athletic substitute, volleying over from six yards when unmarked and then Mark Hudson heading wide. They proved costly, as Dexter Blackstock met Hogan Ephraim's cross to head the winner from 12 yards with 10 minutes left.
It was the striker's second goal of the night and even if there were not the numbers to see it, the result made Sousa feel a little bit more at home after only five days in the capital.
Given that Charlton had lost 5-2 at home on Saturday, the result that ended Alan Pardew's tenure at The Valley, and that QPR had lost 3-0 away at Watford the same day, there was little clue as to which way this game would go except that goals would be assured. Only three was a poor return when there should have been more, especially for the visitors, but that is why Charlton are in the relegation zone.
The south London side have now taken three points out of a possible 27 from their past nine games. Their caretaker manager Phil Parkinson acknowledged that his chances of taking the job permanently did not improve with this defeat, although the feeling is that it is still his job to lose.
It is not as if QPR is a stable environment either, with Iain Dowie, who started the season in charge, sacked last month and caretaker Gareth Ainsworth replaced by Sousa last week. But the former Juventus midfielder said that he is determined to try to rebuild the club. The first goal of his reign arrived just after quarter of an hour and although Therry Racon equalised after half an hour, Blackstock's double showed how valuable a confident goalscorer is. He has nine for the campaign.
"I spoke with Dexter and watched his goals from this season with him," Sousa said. "I believe in him and the team can help him to score." After the debacle at Watford, Sousa had still spoken to the press afterwards. This was the chance for his side to show that they understood him and he felt that they responded. The manager's early worries evaporated when Damiano Tommasi crossed from the left after 17 minutes and found Blackstock, who slotted home from eight yards.
QPR's porous defence was exposed after half an hour, when Hameur Bouazza picked out Racon who sidefooted home from close range. The hosts then survived those later misses before Blackstock showed that watching television sometimes can be good for you.
Queen's Park Rangers (4-1-3-2): Cerny, Ramage, Stewart, Gorkss, Delaney, Ephraim, Tommasi (Mahon, 62), Leigertwood, Parejo (Ledesma, 74), Di Carmine (Agyemang, h-t), Blackstock. Substitutes not used: Cole (gk), Oastler.
Charlton (4-4-2): Weaver (gk), Cranie, Primus, Hudson, Youga, Gillespie, Racon, Semedo, Bouazza, Waghorn (Varney, 62), Gray. Substitutes not used: Elliot, Holland, Sam, Fortune. Referee: K Stroud (Hants). The Independent
TELEGRAPH/Sam Green - Dexter Blackstock double for QPR ruins Phil Parkinson's big night for Charlton
- Phil Parkinson's first full audition for the Charlton manager’s job was spoilt on Tuesday night by Paulo Sousa, who was taking charge of Queens Park Rangers for the first time. But there was no shame for Parkinson in defeat by a man who has a hotline to Jose Mourinho.
- Sousa, a former Portugal and Juventus midfielder who has won the Champions League twice, was appointed as Iain Dowie’s successor last week and watched Rangers go down 3-0 at Watford on Saturday.
- But on Tuesday evening his new charges - thanks to a double from Dexter Blackstock - earned a win that put them just one point outside the play-off zone.
- Afterwards Sousa, who was assistant to Luiz Felipe Scolari during the Chelsea manager’s time in charge of Portugal, revealed he has been in regular contact with Mourinho, Scolari’s predecessor at Chelsea.
- “I am proud of what Jose has achieved because he is Portuguese and a winner,” Sousa said. “I want to be a winner too and Jose helps me each day because I speak with him often, but I am going my own way and am confident in myself.”
- Sousa, who was too smart to be cajoled into talking about QPR’s promotion credentials, was full of praise for both his own players and Charlton’s.
- Indeed the south London side deserved more from their first game after Alan Pardew’s departure, some £1 million better off, from the Valley.
- Saturday’s shambolic 5-2 home defeat by Sheffield United, which left Charlton in the relegation places, was the death blow for Pardew.
- Alan Curbishley has been linked with a return, while Billy Davies, Lawrie Sanchez and Martin Allen are said to be interested. But the feeling is that Parkinson, Pardew’s assistant, will be given a chance.
- Parkinson had already expressed his desire to return to management, but he refused to be drawn again last night and said he had been given no indication of his chances by the board.
- “It’s been a traumatic week, and at the moment it’s my responsibility to put together some performances that the club will be proud of,” he said, before admitting that he would need points to land the job. “Results are everything in football and while everyone could see this was a good performance, we need some wins,” he said.
- It was QPR who drew first blood, Damiano Tommasi crossing from the left for the unmarked Blackstock to steer home.
- But Charlton levelled on the half-hour after a penetrating run by 33-year-old winger Keith Gillespie, making his debut after joining on loan from Sheffield United. Hameur Bouazza provided the final pass and Therry Racon drilled home his first goal for the club.
- Damien Delaney prevented a second Charlton goal just after the break, blocking Martin Waghorn’s close-range shot after more good work by Bouazza.
- Linvoy Primus then went close for the visitors with a half-volley and Charlton captain Mark Hudson’s header flashed wide with13 minutes left, but QPR scored the winner soon after
- From Hogan Ephraim’s cross Blackstock netted with an adroit looping header, his ninth goal of the season, and moments later he almost completed his hat-trick with diving header. Telegraph
The Mirror/Lee West - Special won for new boss
JOSE SHOWED THE WAY SAYS SOUSA
- New Qpr boss Paulo Sousa edged a lucky win in his first match in the dug-out - thanks to Dexter Blackstock and Jose Mourinho.
Two-goal striker Blackstock saved Rangers, smacking home the opener after 17 minutes and heading in the winner 10 minutes from time.
But the megabucks Hoops were otherwise outplayed by managerless Charlton, who only had Therry Racon's 30th-minute equaliser to show for their efforts.
Portuguese coach Sousa revealed afterwards that he had been taking coaching tips from his pal and former Chelsea boss Mourinho.
Sousa, who watched Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Watford from the stands, said: "I'm proud of Jose as he's a Portuguese coach and he's a winner. I want to be a winner too.
"He helped me and I speak with him often as he has more experience than me. But I'm going my way and I know and believe in what I can do.
"It's not easy when you lose 3-0 in the previous game. You need to be very strong to change after this."
But this was a sloppy performance by Rangers in front of the club's lowest league crowd of the season - just 12,286.
Charlton caretaker boss Phil Parkinson, in charge after Alan Pardew's sacking on Saturday, vowed to lead his club out of the relegation zone - if the Addicks board gives him the chance.
"If they keep playing the way they did tonight, results will come," he said. "Everybody can see we played well and I'm confident we will win games."
Awful marking allowed Blackstock to put Rangers ahead, side-footing home Damiano Tommasi's cross.
But Charlton bossed the rest of the first half with Martyn Waghorn shooting wide before Hameur Bouazza's pull-back was slotted in by Racon.
Charlton pressed after the break, with Hoops defender Damien Delaney making a goal-saving tackle on Waghorn and Linvoy Primus volleying just over.
But Blackstock popped up to put Rangers in front 10 minutes from time, leaping highest to meet Hogan Ephraim's cross and loop a header over Nicky Weaver into the net. The Mirror
See also: Earlier Reports and comments
Ali Russell Cancelled South Africa Conference Attendance After Marson Axing
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Visit QPR Report Messageboard for Additional articles and opinion - and to offer your own views. -- Elsewhere last night: Angelo Balanta and Tommy Doherty Rock for Wycombe
- And the latest item from the Daily Mail's Charles Sale. Some might consider his approach to be extremely snide. It would be an interesting project to go back over the past period of time and look at all the Daily Mail items re developments at QPR - and how they are phrased.
Charles Sale/Daily Mail
"...HAPLESS QPR deputy managing director Ali Russell pulled out of his scheduled
appearance as a Soccerex convention panellist in Johannesburg on Tuesday because of the turmoil at Loftus Road following the sacking of secretary Sheila Marson.
Russell, who was replaced by the far more qualified Spurs commercial chief Paul Barber, had been due to speak on how to attract, manage and deliver the perfect sponsorship partnership - negotiations which, at QPR, bypass him but involve owner Flavio Briatore." Daily Mail
Visit QPR Report Messageboard for Additional articles and opinion - and to offer your own views. -- Elsewhere last night: Angelo Balanta and Tommy Doherty Rock for Wycombe
- And the latest item from the Daily Mail's Charles Sale. Some might consider his approach to be extremely snide. It would be an interesting project to go back over the past period of time and look at all the Daily Mail items re developments at QPR - and how they are phrased.
Charles Sale/Daily Mail
"...HAPLESS QPR deputy managing director Ali Russell pulled out of his scheduled
appearance as a Soccerex convention panellist in Johannesburg on Tuesday because of the turmoil at Loftus Road following the sacking of secretary Sheila Marson.
Russell, who was replaced by the far more qualified Spurs commercial chief Paul Barber, had been due to speak on how to attract, manage and deliver the perfect sponsorship partnership - negotiations which, at QPR, bypass him but involve owner Flavio Briatore." Daily Mail
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
QPR's Charlton Victory - Reports and Managerial Comments
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QPR beat Charlton 2-1 (Blackstock 2 goals)before a crowd of just over 12,000 and are just a point outside the playoff spot - Updated Table. -
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - SOUSA: I'M VERY PROUD
Paulo Sousa failed to hide his delight, as Dexter Blackstock's brace fired Rangers up to tenth in the Championship table - and just a point off the play-off's.
Blackstock scored either side of a Therry Racon goal, as the R's bounced back from Saturday's disappointing defeat to Watford with a valuable victory over their London rivals.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Sousa said: "The players gave me everything - and for that I am very proud.
- "It was a very important win for us, especially after our bad performance against Watford on Saturday.
"My team, my players showed a mental change tonight. They kept going and turned a negative in to a positive.
"I think Charlton Athletic did very well and I said to Gareth (Ainsworth) how surprised I am about their league position.
"The players took my ideas on board tonight though and they believed in me and I am very proud of them.
"It's a lot easier to achieve when you believe in your own ability and we showed that tonight." QPR
MANAGERIAL COMMENTS - SPORTING LIFE - By Andy Sims, PA Sport
Paulo Sousa was a "proud" man after a Dexter Blackstock brace secured him his first win as QPR boss against Charlton at Loftus Road.
The former Portugal midfielder could have been forgiven for wondering what he had let himself in for as he watched his new side lose 3-0 at Watford on Saturday.
But Rangers bounced back courtesy of Blackstock's eighth and ninth goals of the season to end a run of three straight defeats with a 2-1 win that leaves Charlton in the relegation zone.
"It's not very easy when a team loses 3-0 and to change mentally you have to be very strong," said Sousa.
"I don't understand why Charlton are in the position they are in because they have great players and play very well.
"So I am proud of my players because they are working very hard with a lot of changes. They are accepting my ideas and they believe in me."
Sousa, the sixth man in charge of Rangers in little over a year, received warm applause when he was introduced before kick-off, although Loftus Road's lowest league crowd of the season turned out to greet the new boss.
He was punching the air in delight after 17 minutes of his first home game when Damiano Tommasi ambled down the left wing and crossed for Blackstock to slot past Nicky Weaver.
Therry Racon's first goal in English football looked to have secured the beleaguered Addicks a point when he tucked away Hamuer Boazza's cross on the half-hour.
Linvoy Primus and Mark Hudson went close to giving Charlton the lead, but it was Blackstock who had the last word when he headed in Hogan Ephraim's cross with 10 minutes remaining.
Defeat was hard to swallow for Charlton's caretaker boss Phil Parkinson, at the helm following Alan Pardew's departure on Saturday.
The Addicks are now without a win in nine games, although they showed a vast improvement from the 5-2 home mauling by Sheffield United which finally did for Pardew.
"I'm disappointed with the result, but I asked for a reaction and I got it," said Parkinson.
"But when you are at the bottom things don't go for you. Everything we asked of them they did and I am so disappointed for them.
"They are as honest a bunch of players as I have ever known in football and they are hurting.
"It was a night when their striker had two chances and he put them both in - you have to make them count - and we had chances but did not put them in, and that was the difference."
Parkinson, a former manager himself with Colchester and Hull, will be in line for the permanent role if he can drag Charlton clear of the drop zone.
But he added: "I'm not saying anything about that. I was just focused on tonight, and then on training and on our game with Southampton on Saturday." Sporting Life
SPORTING LIFE - By Andy Sims, PA Sport
Dexter Blackstock struck twice as Paulo Sousa got off the mark as QPR boss and left managerless Charlton marooned in the bottom three of the Coca-Cola Championship.
Therry Racon's first goal in English football looked to have secured the beleaguered Addicks a point when he cancelled out Blackstock's opener.
But the Rangers striker grabbed his ninth goal of the season 10 minutes from full-time to condemn Charlton to another defeat.
Sousa, the sixth man in charge of Rangers in little over a year, received warm applause when he was introduced before kick-off, although Loftus Road's lowest league crowd of the season turned out to greet their new boss.
The ex-Portugal playmaker endured a chastening 3-0 defeat in his opening match in charge at Watford on Saturday, but he was punching the air in delight after 17 minutes of his first home game when Damiano Tommasi ambled down the left wing and crossed for Blackstock to slot past Nicky Weaver.
Charlton caretaker boss Phil Parkinson, at the helm following Saturday's departure of Alan Pardew, handed a debut to veteran Northern Ireland winger Keith Gillespie following his loan move from Sheffield United.
It was the 5-2 home defeat by the Blades which spelt the end for Alan Pardew, and Charlton are now without a win in nine matches and staring at a relegation battle.
Gillespie and teenage Sunderland loanee Martyn Waghorn were at least lively additions to the side, and the latter got their first sight of goal with an angled drive which flew into the side-netting.
Gillespie then sent in a low shot which Radek Cerny comfortably dealt with, before Charlton drew level on the half-hour.
Racon played the ball out to Hamuer Bouazza on the left, and although the winger's initial touch let him down he recovered to ping in a low cross.
Cerny and the Rangers rearguard hesitated to allow Racon, on his return to the side following a broken metatarsal, to sidefoot the equaliser into an empty net.
Waghorn was denied a goal shortly after the break when he latched onto Bouazza's cut-back only for Damien Delaney to whip the ball off his foot with a last-ditch challenge.
Linvoy Primus hit the roof of the net with a volley while, for Rangers, Blackstock headed wide and Patrick Agyemang blazed over.
Charlton captain Mark Hudson should have hit the target but his header from Gillespie's cross flew wide.
And moments later Blackstock stole the points when he headed Hogan Ephraim's deep cross past Weaver. Sporting Life
QPR Official Site
Dexter Blackstock struck twice in either half to hand new QPR Manager Paulo Sousa a first win in his first match at Loftus Road.
The ex-Southampton marksman smashed home the match's opener on 17 minutes after good work from Damiano Tommasi, before Therry Racon brought the scores level, thundering home from close range after a fine Charlton move.
But Blackstock lifted the roof off Loftus Road in the 79th minute as he rose majestically to head over a despairing Nicky Weaver to give Sousa a first win, and Rangers a vital three points.
New Manager Sousa picked a changed line-up for the visit of the Addicks as Samuel Di Carmine replaced Patrick Agyemang in attack, Daniel Parejo added creativity to the midfield and Kaspars Gorkss replaced the suspended Fitz Hall.
With a multitude of injuries and suspensions, youngster Joe Oastler made the step up from the Reserves to take up a seat on the bench.
The visitor's handed a debut to new loan signing Keith Gillespie whilst there were also starts for ex-Rangers loanee Martin Cranie, fellow loan-man Martin Waghorn and midfielder Racon.
A noisy home crowd had to wait only ten minutes for the games first decent effort. Mikele Leigertwood picked up the ball from Peter Ramage's inside pass and, failing to see any other option, lashed a left-footed piledriver wide of the right-hand post.
Rangers did one better with their next attack. Charlton keeper Weaver's punt up field was miss-controlled by Gillespie allowing Tommasi to pick up possession on the left-hand side. The Italian rolled back the years with a burst of pace that took him away from Craine and he delivered a fine cross for Blackstock to tap home and hand the R's an early lead.
Charlton refused to let their heads go down and Radek Cerny smothered a decent effort from Gillespie looking to atone for his earlier misdemeanour.
Gillespie did manage to regain some measure of pride as he inspired Charlton's equaliser. Running at Damien Delaney, the on-loan winger fired a low cross that evaded everyone inside the R's box before falling to Hameur Bouazza. The Algerian sent an even better cross in return that a lunging Racon needed no invitation to thump in to bring the Addicks level.
Minutes before half-time, Tommasi tried the spectacular with a long range drive from fully 35-yards but, with Weaver back-pedalling, the ball was always rising a sailed over the bar.
Sousa tinkered at half-time, replacing Di Carmine with Agyemang to give his forward line an injection of pace.
But it was the Addicks who nearly stole the lead. Bouazza used his pace and deftness to evade Ramage and tear into the R's box. His cutback was perfect for the unmarked Waghorn but before the striker could pull the trigger, in lunged Delaney to execute a perfect tackle to clear the danger.
The visitors threatened again minutes later when, from Bouazza's free-kick, Linvoy Primus volleyed marginally over when the ball fell kindly for him in the area.
Back came Rangers and Parejo's through-ball found Agyemang but the Ghanaian hit-man could not make sufficient contact.
Unperturbed, the substitute tried again. On the edge of the area, he picked up possession, jinked clear of Primus and thundered an effort high over Weaver's bar.
New gaffer Sousa made a second change just past the hour mark, as Gavin Mahon replaced the tiring Tommasi.
The tide turned after the change, with the Addicks once again threatening through Bouazza. First the ex-Hornet robbed Hogan Ephraim 25-yards out and tried to curl a shot around Cerny and then crossed for Varney to chest into the path of Andy Gray.
The forward teed up Racon but when his shot struck a defender it fell perfectly for the recently introduced Luke Varney. From six-yards out, and with only Cerny to beat, the Addicks number 12 only succeeded in blazing his half-volley well over, to the derision of the R's fans.
Sousa played the last card in his hand, swapping the industrious Parejo for equally-gifted Argentine Emmanuel Ledesma.
Charlton were sensing they had the upper hand and Gray saw a header bounce agonisingly wide.
However, it was the R's who regained the lead through Blackstock's second of the game. When Agyemang found Leigertwood in the centre of the park, the midfielder sprayed a pass out to the right for Ephraim.
The youngster controlled, took aim and delivered a beautiful cross met equally well by Blackstock leaping like a salmon to loop a perfect header beyond Weaver to send the R's fans delirious.
The same two combined again seconds after the restart but after Ephraim's pinpoint cross picked out the man on a hat-trick, Blackstock could only touch the ball agonisingly wide.
Agyemang just had time to see a well-struck effort comfortably saved by Weaver before the final whistle blew; handing the R's a well-deserved victory.QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood, Parejo (Ledesma 73), Blackstock, Gorkss, Ramage, Tommasi (Mahon 61), Di Carmine (Agyemang 46), Ephraim.
Subs: Cole, Oastler.
Scorers: Blackstock (17), (79)
Bookings: Leigertwood (41), Delaney (72
Red Cards:
Charlton Athletic: Weaver, Youga, Hudson, Gray, Gillespie, Racon, Semedo, Cranie (Sam 82), Bouazza, Primus, Waghorn (Varney 62).
Subs: Elliot, Holland, Fortune.
Scorers: Racon (30)
Bookings: Hudson (90)
Red Cards:
Referee: Mr K P Shroud
Attendance: 12, 286 QPR
Charlton Official Site
Blackstock buries Charlton again
More of story 1
Dexter Blackstock was once again the scourge of Charlton as caretaker boss Phil Parkinson suffered an unlucky defeat in his first match at the helm.
The striker, who netted the winner when these sides last met at Loftus Road, struck either side of Therry Racon's first goal in Addicks colours.
With ten minutes remaining the smart money would have been on Charlton taking maximum points from the midweek derby.
But, after Luke Varney spurned a great chance from close range, Blackstock, who had opened the scoring in the 17th minute, headed home what proved to be the winner.
The only consolation for Parkinson, in a committed performance from his side, was a goal from Racon, the Frenchman sliding in to level the scores on the half hour.
angers were far from convincing in their second match under Portuguese legend Paulo Sousa, and it was they who were holding on a little the longer the second half unfolded.
In truth, there was little between the sides before Blackstock opened the scoring after Damiano Tomassi had escaped on the left.
Initial observations suggested the ball might have gone out of play, but play continued and Blackstock was still left all alone to convert crisply.
The impressive Racon, making his comeback from a fractured metatarsal sustained on the second week of the season, charged in to level with his inaugural goal.
After the break Charlton gradually started to get ahead on points with Primus close with a half volley on the turn.
Weaver mopped up at the other end when required but the best chance of a game-changing goal fell to Varney eight minutes after he arrived on the scene.
The ball looped appetisingly in his direction off a home defender but, with just Radek Cerny to beat, the striker volleyed over the bar.
Skipper Mark Hudson also went close for the Addicks as debutant Keith Gillespie's crossing caused no end of problems but then came the late heartbreak as Blackstock rose to power a header home from Hogan Ephraim's cross.
It was a hammer blow to a side already in the dangerzone and the Addicks could not get back off the canvas for a second time.
However, the pride, spirit and application would surely have pleased the new boss, his staff and the travelling faithful and convinced the Addicks that good times are just around the corner.
In terms of team news Charlton caretaker boss Parkinson fielded a much-changed side for the London derby.
Parkinson, in temporary control for the first time since the departure of Alan Pardew on Saturday evening, made four changes from the side that lost 5-2 against Sheffield United.
Most significant was a debut on the right hand side for new loan signing Gillespie, the winger having signed until the end of January from the Blades 24 hours ago.
There was also a recall at right-back for Martin Cranie against the side he played for on loan last season, Martyn Waghorn was in from the start following his encouraging debut from the bench on Saturday, and Racon returned in midfield.
The capture of Gillespie, who had just on minute of domestic action under his belt this season, was the first significant act by the stand-in boss, and he came in for Lloyd Sam out wide.
Cranie got the nod over Yassin Moutaouakil on the right of the rearguard while there was a new look to the midfield as Racon made his first start since fracturing his foot in the second game of the season at Watford.
The Frenchman partnered Jose Semedo in the middle of the park and Hameur Bouazza was aiming to continue a three-game scoring streak from the left of midfield.
Up front Sunderland loanee Waghorn operated just behind top scorer Gray.
Weaver was in goal and the backline was completed by skipper Hudson, Primus and Kelly Youga.
Jonathan Fortune was back on the bench following injury, and he was joined in reserve by Matt Holland, Sam, Luke Varney and Rob Elliot.
The hosts were without the suspended Fitz Hall after his red card at Watford on Saturday.
Kaspars Gorkss came in at the back while Blackstock, who netted the winner here last season, was a notable threat up front.
It was also a first match in charge at Loftus Road for Rangers' new Portuguese first team coach, Sousa following his inauspicious debut at Vicarage Road three days earlier.
But for a speculative effort from Daniel Parejo there was little noteworthy action as the visitors settled nicely in to the evening.
The first serious effort came in the 11th minute when Mikele Leigertwood seized possession and cut to his left before curling a 25-yarder wide.
But the deadlock was broken six minutes later as Blackstock netted again.
Tommasi made good ground on the left touchline and as Cranie hesitated - perhaps suggesting the ball had gone out of play - the Italian had time to look up and send a ball across for the unmarked Blackstock to tuck away.
Waghorn wriggled in to space in the box and fired a shot wide moments later as the visitors attempted to rally and Radek Cerny's gloves were warmed for the first time in the 25th minute as Gillespie took aim from the right.
The keeper got down well to save the winger's shot but was beaten on the half hour as the visitors drew level through Racon.
The midfielder slid in to convert Bouazza's excellent pull-back, the Algerian having initially taken an incredibly heavy touch after the Addicks worked a good opening from the right hand side.
Nonetheless, the cut-back was everything the first touch wasn't, right on the money as Racon emerged among a cluster of players to score.
Suddenly the Frenchman was everywhere, cutting out a dangerous looking pass from the Rangers left and supplying more industry in midfield.
After Primus slipped but somehow managed to get a toe in, Cranie made a brilliant block on Blackstock as he sniffed a second.
At the other end a stabbed cross from Bouazza was just too high for Waghorn in the middle five minutes before the break, the ball skimming off the youngster's head before dropping wide.
Tommasi was well over from range at the end of the half while there was nobody able to apply a decisive touch after an injury time Cranie free-kick in the box caused mild panic amongst Cerny and a defender.
Patrick Agyemang was introduced at the break, for the ineffective Samuel Di Carmine and only a fine block from Damien Delaney stopped Charlton going in front three minutes after the restart.
Bouazza was the architect; bursting in from the left to devastating effect and teeing up Waghorn whose hopes of a first goal in senior football were dashed by Delaney's critical last-ditch block.
Then both sides went close in as many minutes as the hour mark approached.
First Primus was one of two players left alone in the box after a Bouazza free-kick was partially cleared on 54 minutes.
The bug defender spun sharply and rifled a shot on to the roof of the net.
At the other end Hudson, under pressure from Agyemang, breathed a sigh of relief as a Weaver block thudded against him and dropped behind.
Agyemang then wriggled free and shot narrowly over the bar in the 56th minute and the hosts were starting to build up a head of steam.
Primus took one for the team as he blocked a shot from Agyemang before Luke Varney and Gavin Mahon arrived for the hard-working Waghorn and Tommasi in the 63rd minute.
Shortly afterwards Cerny reached up to clutch a sliced clearance from Damion Stewart while Bouazza robbed Hogan Ephraim on 70 minutes and curled a shot narrowly wide.
An even better chance came the way of the visitors a minute later as Bouazza caused more problems on the left.
The ball eventually looped out, off Gray and Semedo's shot from range clattered off a hooped defender only for Varney to fluff his lines and shoot well over the bar.
It was a big chance and the striker was involved in the next incident, having his legs swiped away by Delaney as the defender was booked.
Hudson, having been denied close to the line after a wickedly swerving Gillespie corner, got in to head another cross from the winger wide as the clocks reached 78 minutes.
The natives were restless as Charlton sensed the win.
Instead, it was Rangers who stole the lead out of nowhere ten minutes from time as Blackstock grabbed his second.
Ephraim sent in a fine cross from the right and there was the striker to send a terrific header over Weaver and into the top left corner.
Charlton almost responded straight away as a Racon cross was half cleared yet Youga missed his kick crucially as the ball sat up.
Blackstock dived to head another tempting Ephraim cross wide before Parkinson sent on Sam for Cranie.
Weaver saved from Blackstock as the striker continued on his quest for the match ball and auxiliary striker Hudson was booked late on for a foul on Leigertwood.
Time was against the Addicks, however, as Sousa beat Parkinson to a first win in charge. Charlton
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QPR beat Charlton 2-1 (Blackstock 2 goals)before a crowd of just over 12,000 and are just a point outside the playoff spot - Updated Table. -
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - SOUSA: I'M VERY PROUD
Paulo Sousa failed to hide his delight, as Dexter Blackstock's brace fired Rangers up to tenth in the Championship table - and just a point off the play-off's.
Blackstock scored either side of a Therry Racon goal, as the R's bounced back from Saturday's disappointing defeat to Watford with a valuable victory over their London rivals.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Sousa said: "The players gave me everything - and for that I am very proud.
- "It was a very important win for us, especially after our bad performance against Watford on Saturday.
"My team, my players showed a mental change tonight. They kept going and turned a negative in to a positive.
"I think Charlton Athletic did very well and I said to Gareth (Ainsworth) how surprised I am about their league position.
"The players took my ideas on board tonight though and they believed in me and I am very proud of them.
"It's a lot easier to achieve when you believe in your own ability and we showed that tonight." QPR
MANAGERIAL COMMENTS - SPORTING LIFE - By Andy Sims, PA Sport
Paulo Sousa was a "proud" man after a Dexter Blackstock brace secured him his first win as QPR boss against Charlton at Loftus Road.
The former Portugal midfielder could have been forgiven for wondering what he had let himself in for as he watched his new side lose 3-0 at Watford on Saturday.
But Rangers bounced back courtesy of Blackstock's eighth and ninth goals of the season to end a run of three straight defeats with a 2-1 win that leaves Charlton in the relegation zone.
"It's not very easy when a team loses 3-0 and to change mentally you have to be very strong," said Sousa.
"I don't understand why Charlton are in the position they are in because they have great players and play very well.
"So I am proud of my players because they are working very hard with a lot of changes. They are accepting my ideas and they believe in me."
Sousa, the sixth man in charge of Rangers in little over a year, received warm applause when he was introduced before kick-off, although Loftus Road's lowest league crowd of the season turned out to greet the new boss.
He was punching the air in delight after 17 minutes of his first home game when Damiano Tommasi ambled down the left wing and crossed for Blackstock to slot past Nicky Weaver.
Therry Racon's first goal in English football looked to have secured the beleaguered Addicks a point when he tucked away Hamuer Boazza's cross on the half-hour.
Linvoy Primus and Mark Hudson went close to giving Charlton the lead, but it was Blackstock who had the last word when he headed in Hogan Ephraim's cross with 10 minutes remaining.
Defeat was hard to swallow for Charlton's caretaker boss Phil Parkinson, at the helm following Alan Pardew's departure on Saturday.
The Addicks are now without a win in nine games, although they showed a vast improvement from the 5-2 home mauling by Sheffield United which finally did for Pardew.
"I'm disappointed with the result, but I asked for a reaction and I got it," said Parkinson.
"But when you are at the bottom things don't go for you. Everything we asked of them they did and I am so disappointed for them.
"They are as honest a bunch of players as I have ever known in football and they are hurting.
"It was a night when their striker had two chances and he put them both in - you have to make them count - and we had chances but did not put them in, and that was the difference."
Parkinson, a former manager himself with Colchester and Hull, will be in line for the permanent role if he can drag Charlton clear of the drop zone.
But he added: "I'm not saying anything about that. I was just focused on tonight, and then on training and on our game with Southampton on Saturday." Sporting Life
SPORTING LIFE - By Andy Sims, PA Sport
Dexter Blackstock struck twice as Paulo Sousa got off the mark as QPR boss and left managerless Charlton marooned in the bottom three of the Coca-Cola Championship.
Therry Racon's first goal in English football looked to have secured the beleaguered Addicks a point when he cancelled out Blackstock's opener.
But the Rangers striker grabbed his ninth goal of the season 10 minutes from full-time to condemn Charlton to another defeat.
Sousa, the sixth man in charge of Rangers in little over a year, received warm applause when he was introduced before kick-off, although Loftus Road's lowest league crowd of the season turned out to greet their new boss.
The ex-Portugal playmaker endured a chastening 3-0 defeat in his opening match in charge at Watford on Saturday, but he was punching the air in delight after 17 minutes of his first home game when Damiano Tommasi ambled down the left wing and crossed for Blackstock to slot past Nicky Weaver.
Charlton caretaker boss Phil Parkinson, at the helm following Saturday's departure of Alan Pardew, handed a debut to veteran Northern Ireland winger Keith Gillespie following his loan move from Sheffield United.
It was the 5-2 home defeat by the Blades which spelt the end for Alan Pardew, and Charlton are now without a win in nine matches and staring at a relegation battle.
Gillespie and teenage Sunderland loanee Martyn Waghorn were at least lively additions to the side, and the latter got their first sight of goal with an angled drive which flew into the side-netting.
Gillespie then sent in a low shot which Radek Cerny comfortably dealt with, before Charlton drew level on the half-hour.
Racon played the ball out to Hamuer Bouazza on the left, and although the winger's initial touch let him down he recovered to ping in a low cross.
Cerny and the Rangers rearguard hesitated to allow Racon, on his return to the side following a broken metatarsal, to sidefoot the equaliser into an empty net.
Waghorn was denied a goal shortly after the break when he latched onto Bouazza's cut-back only for Damien Delaney to whip the ball off his foot with a last-ditch challenge.
Linvoy Primus hit the roof of the net with a volley while, for Rangers, Blackstock headed wide and Patrick Agyemang blazed over.
Charlton captain Mark Hudson should have hit the target but his header from Gillespie's cross flew wide.
And moments later Blackstock stole the points when he headed Hogan Ephraim's deep cross past Weaver. Sporting Life
QPR Official Site
Dexter Blackstock struck twice in either half to hand new QPR Manager Paulo Sousa a first win in his first match at Loftus Road.
The ex-Southampton marksman smashed home the match's opener on 17 minutes after good work from Damiano Tommasi, before Therry Racon brought the scores level, thundering home from close range after a fine Charlton move.
But Blackstock lifted the roof off Loftus Road in the 79th minute as he rose majestically to head over a despairing Nicky Weaver to give Sousa a first win, and Rangers a vital three points.
New Manager Sousa picked a changed line-up for the visit of the Addicks as Samuel Di Carmine replaced Patrick Agyemang in attack, Daniel Parejo added creativity to the midfield and Kaspars Gorkss replaced the suspended Fitz Hall.
With a multitude of injuries and suspensions, youngster Joe Oastler made the step up from the Reserves to take up a seat on the bench.
The visitor's handed a debut to new loan signing Keith Gillespie whilst there were also starts for ex-Rangers loanee Martin Cranie, fellow loan-man Martin Waghorn and midfielder Racon.
A noisy home crowd had to wait only ten minutes for the games first decent effort. Mikele Leigertwood picked up the ball from Peter Ramage's inside pass and, failing to see any other option, lashed a left-footed piledriver wide of the right-hand post.
Rangers did one better with their next attack. Charlton keeper Weaver's punt up field was miss-controlled by Gillespie allowing Tommasi to pick up possession on the left-hand side. The Italian rolled back the years with a burst of pace that took him away from Craine and he delivered a fine cross for Blackstock to tap home and hand the R's an early lead.
Charlton refused to let their heads go down and Radek Cerny smothered a decent effort from Gillespie looking to atone for his earlier misdemeanour.
Gillespie did manage to regain some measure of pride as he inspired Charlton's equaliser. Running at Damien Delaney, the on-loan winger fired a low cross that evaded everyone inside the R's box before falling to Hameur Bouazza. The Algerian sent an even better cross in return that a lunging Racon needed no invitation to thump in to bring the Addicks level.
Minutes before half-time, Tommasi tried the spectacular with a long range drive from fully 35-yards but, with Weaver back-pedalling, the ball was always rising a sailed over the bar.
Sousa tinkered at half-time, replacing Di Carmine with Agyemang to give his forward line an injection of pace.
But it was the Addicks who nearly stole the lead. Bouazza used his pace and deftness to evade Ramage and tear into the R's box. His cutback was perfect for the unmarked Waghorn but before the striker could pull the trigger, in lunged Delaney to execute a perfect tackle to clear the danger.
The visitors threatened again minutes later when, from Bouazza's free-kick, Linvoy Primus volleyed marginally over when the ball fell kindly for him in the area.
Back came Rangers and Parejo's through-ball found Agyemang but the Ghanaian hit-man could not make sufficient contact.
Unperturbed, the substitute tried again. On the edge of the area, he picked up possession, jinked clear of Primus and thundered an effort high over Weaver's bar.
New gaffer Sousa made a second change just past the hour mark, as Gavin Mahon replaced the tiring Tommasi.
The tide turned after the change, with the Addicks once again threatening through Bouazza. First the ex-Hornet robbed Hogan Ephraim 25-yards out and tried to curl a shot around Cerny and then crossed for Varney to chest into the path of Andy Gray.
The forward teed up Racon but when his shot struck a defender it fell perfectly for the recently introduced Luke Varney. From six-yards out, and with only Cerny to beat, the Addicks number 12 only succeeded in blazing his half-volley well over, to the derision of the R's fans.
Sousa played the last card in his hand, swapping the industrious Parejo for equally-gifted Argentine Emmanuel Ledesma.
Charlton were sensing they had the upper hand and Gray saw a header bounce agonisingly wide.
However, it was the R's who regained the lead through Blackstock's second of the game. When Agyemang found Leigertwood in the centre of the park, the midfielder sprayed a pass out to the right for Ephraim.
The youngster controlled, took aim and delivered a beautiful cross met equally well by Blackstock leaping like a salmon to loop a perfect header beyond Weaver to send the R's fans delirious.
The same two combined again seconds after the restart but after Ephraim's pinpoint cross picked out the man on a hat-trick, Blackstock could only touch the ball agonisingly wide.
Agyemang just had time to see a well-struck effort comfortably saved by Weaver before the final whistle blew; handing the R's a well-deserved victory.QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood, Parejo (Ledesma 73), Blackstock, Gorkss, Ramage, Tommasi (Mahon 61), Di Carmine (Agyemang 46), Ephraim.
Subs: Cole, Oastler.
Scorers: Blackstock (17), (79)
Bookings: Leigertwood (41), Delaney (72
Red Cards:
Charlton Athletic: Weaver, Youga, Hudson, Gray, Gillespie, Racon, Semedo, Cranie (Sam 82), Bouazza, Primus, Waghorn (Varney 62).
Subs: Elliot, Holland, Fortune.
Scorers: Racon (30)
Bookings: Hudson (90)
Red Cards:
Referee: Mr K P Shroud
Attendance: 12, 286 QPR
Charlton Official Site
Blackstock buries Charlton again
More of story 1
Dexter Blackstock was once again the scourge of Charlton as caretaker boss Phil Parkinson suffered an unlucky defeat in his first match at the helm.
The striker, who netted the winner when these sides last met at Loftus Road, struck either side of Therry Racon's first goal in Addicks colours.
With ten minutes remaining the smart money would have been on Charlton taking maximum points from the midweek derby.
But, after Luke Varney spurned a great chance from close range, Blackstock, who had opened the scoring in the 17th minute, headed home what proved to be the winner.
The only consolation for Parkinson, in a committed performance from his side, was a goal from Racon, the Frenchman sliding in to level the scores on the half hour.
angers were far from convincing in their second match under Portuguese legend Paulo Sousa, and it was they who were holding on a little the longer the second half unfolded.
In truth, there was little between the sides before Blackstock opened the scoring after Damiano Tomassi had escaped on the left.
Initial observations suggested the ball might have gone out of play, but play continued and Blackstock was still left all alone to convert crisply.
The impressive Racon, making his comeback from a fractured metatarsal sustained on the second week of the season, charged in to level with his inaugural goal.
After the break Charlton gradually started to get ahead on points with Primus close with a half volley on the turn.
Weaver mopped up at the other end when required but the best chance of a game-changing goal fell to Varney eight minutes after he arrived on the scene.
The ball looped appetisingly in his direction off a home defender but, with just Radek Cerny to beat, the striker volleyed over the bar.
Skipper Mark Hudson also went close for the Addicks as debutant Keith Gillespie's crossing caused no end of problems but then came the late heartbreak as Blackstock rose to power a header home from Hogan Ephraim's cross.
It was a hammer blow to a side already in the dangerzone and the Addicks could not get back off the canvas for a second time.
However, the pride, spirit and application would surely have pleased the new boss, his staff and the travelling faithful and convinced the Addicks that good times are just around the corner.
In terms of team news Charlton caretaker boss Parkinson fielded a much-changed side for the London derby.
Parkinson, in temporary control for the first time since the departure of Alan Pardew on Saturday evening, made four changes from the side that lost 5-2 against Sheffield United.
Most significant was a debut on the right hand side for new loan signing Gillespie, the winger having signed until the end of January from the Blades 24 hours ago.
There was also a recall at right-back for Martin Cranie against the side he played for on loan last season, Martyn Waghorn was in from the start following his encouraging debut from the bench on Saturday, and Racon returned in midfield.
The capture of Gillespie, who had just on minute of domestic action under his belt this season, was the first significant act by the stand-in boss, and he came in for Lloyd Sam out wide.
Cranie got the nod over Yassin Moutaouakil on the right of the rearguard while there was a new look to the midfield as Racon made his first start since fracturing his foot in the second game of the season at Watford.
The Frenchman partnered Jose Semedo in the middle of the park and Hameur Bouazza was aiming to continue a three-game scoring streak from the left of midfield.
Up front Sunderland loanee Waghorn operated just behind top scorer Gray.
Weaver was in goal and the backline was completed by skipper Hudson, Primus and Kelly Youga.
Jonathan Fortune was back on the bench following injury, and he was joined in reserve by Matt Holland, Sam, Luke Varney and Rob Elliot.
The hosts were without the suspended Fitz Hall after his red card at Watford on Saturday.
Kaspars Gorkss came in at the back while Blackstock, who netted the winner here last season, was a notable threat up front.
It was also a first match in charge at Loftus Road for Rangers' new Portuguese first team coach, Sousa following his inauspicious debut at Vicarage Road three days earlier.
But for a speculative effort from Daniel Parejo there was little noteworthy action as the visitors settled nicely in to the evening.
The first serious effort came in the 11th minute when Mikele Leigertwood seized possession and cut to his left before curling a 25-yarder wide.
But the deadlock was broken six minutes later as Blackstock netted again.
Tommasi made good ground on the left touchline and as Cranie hesitated - perhaps suggesting the ball had gone out of play - the Italian had time to look up and send a ball across for the unmarked Blackstock to tuck away.
Waghorn wriggled in to space in the box and fired a shot wide moments later as the visitors attempted to rally and Radek Cerny's gloves were warmed for the first time in the 25th minute as Gillespie took aim from the right.
The keeper got down well to save the winger's shot but was beaten on the half hour as the visitors drew level through Racon.
The midfielder slid in to convert Bouazza's excellent pull-back, the Algerian having initially taken an incredibly heavy touch after the Addicks worked a good opening from the right hand side.
Nonetheless, the cut-back was everything the first touch wasn't, right on the money as Racon emerged among a cluster of players to score.
Suddenly the Frenchman was everywhere, cutting out a dangerous looking pass from the Rangers left and supplying more industry in midfield.
After Primus slipped but somehow managed to get a toe in, Cranie made a brilliant block on Blackstock as he sniffed a second.
At the other end a stabbed cross from Bouazza was just too high for Waghorn in the middle five minutes before the break, the ball skimming off the youngster's head before dropping wide.
Tommasi was well over from range at the end of the half while there was nobody able to apply a decisive touch after an injury time Cranie free-kick in the box caused mild panic amongst Cerny and a defender.
Patrick Agyemang was introduced at the break, for the ineffective Samuel Di Carmine and only a fine block from Damien Delaney stopped Charlton going in front three minutes after the restart.
Bouazza was the architect; bursting in from the left to devastating effect and teeing up Waghorn whose hopes of a first goal in senior football were dashed by Delaney's critical last-ditch block.
Then both sides went close in as many minutes as the hour mark approached.
First Primus was one of two players left alone in the box after a Bouazza free-kick was partially cleared on 54 minutes.
The bug defender spun sharply and rifled a shot on to the roof of the net.
At the other end Hudson, under pressure from Agyemang, breathed a sigh of relief as a Weaver block thudded against him and dropped behind.
Agyemang then wriggled free and shot narrowly over the bar in the 56th minute and the hosts were starting to build up a head of steam.
Primus took one for the team as he blocked a shot from Agyemang before Luke Varney and Gavin Mahon arrived for the hard-working Waghorn and Tommasi in the 63rd minute.
Shortly afterwards Cerny reached up to clutch a sliced clearance from Damion Stewart while Bouazza robbed Hogan Ephraim on 70 minutes and curled a shot narrowly wide.
An even better chance came the way of the visitors a minute later as Bouazza caused more problems on the left.
The ball eventually looped out, off Gray and Semedo's shot from range clattered off a hooped defender only for Varney to fluff his lines and shoot well over the bar.
It was a big chance and the striker was involved in the next incident, having his legs swiped away by Delaney as the defender was booked.
Hudson, having been denied close to the line after a wickedly swerving Gillespie corner, got in to head another cross from the winger wide as the clocks reached 78 minutes.
The natives were restless as Charlton sensed the win.
Instead, it was Rangers who stole the lead out of nowhere ten minutes from time as Blackstock grabbed his second.
Ephraim sent in a fine cross from the right and there was the striker to send a terrific header over Weaver and into the top left corner.
Charlton almost responded straight away as a Racon cross was half cleared yet Youga missed his kick crucially as the ball sat up.
Blackstock dived to head another tempting Ephraim cross wide before Parkinson sent on Sam for Cranie.
Weaver saved from Blackstock as the striker continued on his quest for the match ball and auxiliary striker Hudson was booked late on for a foul on Leigertwood.
Time was against the Addicks, however, as Sousa beat Parkinson to a first win in charge. Charlton
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Teams: QPR vs Charlton
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QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood, Parejo, Blackstock, Gorkss, Ramage, Tommasi, Di Carmine, Ephraim. -- Subs: Cole, Mahon, Agyemang, Ledesma, Oastler.
Charlton Athletic: Weaver, Youga, Hudson, Gray, Gillespie, Racon, Semedo, Cranie, Bouazza, Primus, Waghorn. - Subs: Elliot, Holland, Varney, Sam, Fortune
The Teams!
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood, Parejo, Blackstock, Gorkss, Ramage, Tommasi, Di Carmine, Ephraim. -- Subs: Cole, Mahon, Agyemang, Ledesma, Oastler.
Charlton Athletic: Weaver, Youga, Hudson, Gray, Gillespie, Racon, Semedo, Cranie, Bouazza, Primus, Waghorn. - Subs: Elliot, Holland, Varney, Sam, Fortune
The Teams!
Next: Charlton..Football Arrests Including at QPR...Other Football Snippets
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For additional football articles and views - and to offer your own views, if interested: Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
- Racist Chanting at Football Grounds...Arrest Figures for Clubs (including QPR)
- Board Discussion re supposed new QPR Financial Loans-
- Another Mittal Getting OUT of Football Ownership-
- Ali Russell in South Africa for Soccerex Conference. Scheduled to speak today at the conference re Football Sponsorship
-Snippet/Unlikely rumour re QPR interest in Ben Sahar and Scott Sinclair (Of course, there is now, a Sousa-Scolari connection!)-
- Could have been Ranger, Clint Morrison, confident
- - Tax hikes and credit crunch threaten (Football) talent exodus
- Ex-QPR, England International Would Still like to Manage or Coach....
- Last surviving player of Alec Stock's 1958/49 Yeovil team, dies
- Author of Email published in The Daily Mail, comes forward
QPR vs CHARLTON TONIGHT
QPR have the possible misfortunate to play Charlton tonight, with Charlton having the possible boost of a manager being axed and QPR having crashed to Watford and having various internal issues. For QPR, it's of course the home debut of the Sousa-Briatore team. Charlton have one away win this season!... Charlton's stats for the season....
- Past QPR vs Charlton Results. QPR did the double over Charlton last season: The clubs last met in April at Loftus Road, which QPR won 1-0,through Blackstock. The two teams:
QPR: Camp, Delaney, Mahon, Stewart, Blackstock, Ainsworth (Buzsaky 51), Rowlands, Connolly, Ephraim (Leigertwood 79, Hall (Mancienne 34), Balanta. Subs: Crowther, Lee.
Charlton Athletic: Weaver, Thatcher, Zhi (Semedo 74), McCarthy, Cook (Varney 23), Holland, Gray (Iwelumo 60), Ambrose, Bougherra, Halford, Lita. Subs: Randolph, Wagstaff. - Match Reports
Charlton Official Site
. Tom Harvey reports Queens Park Rangers v Charlton
Charlton will have little time to reflect on the dramatic events of Saturday, as a London derby against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road awaits the Addicks on Tuesday night (8pm).
It's more than 10 years since the Addicks last tasted success at QPR, and another victory would do wonders to boost morale around The Valley after Saturday's 5-2 defeat to Sheffield United in SE7.
Not only did the loss put Charlton back in the Championship relegation places, it also spelled the end of Alan Pardew's time as manager, with the former Reading and West Ham United boss leaving The Valley by mutual consent on Saturday evening.
With Pardew's assistant Phil Parkinson placed in temporary charge for the trip to West London, Charlton will be bidding to get their campaign up and running against the R's, who themselves only appointed a new manager - or first-team coach - in Paulo Sousa last week.
Charlton will surely not play much worse this season than they did against the Blades at the weekend, with a catalogue of errors contributing to the defeat - and Pardew's departure after just under two years in charge.
As Pardew stated afterwards in his post-match press conference, a team will not win games if they gift the opposition goals, and it's a problem the Addicks - and Parkinson - must address before they meet QPR.
As they have on countless occasions this term, Charlton again failed to deal with set-pieces, and Parkinson, who has previously managed at Colchester United and Hull City, will be hoping the Addicks can turn in a better defensive performance at Loftus Road.
He believes nearly every goal conceded against the Blades could have been avoided, and must now attempt to lift Charlton's spirits for what is likely to be a tough test against Rangers.
The opposition
Like Charlton, the 2008/09 season has been pretty eventful at QPR, although the club is in the healthier position of 12th going into Tuesday's match.
Former Addicks head coach Iain Dowie took over Rangers in the summer, but left in October, with former Portugal midfielder Sousa taking over last week.
Dowie, who took charge of just 15 Charlton games, was dismissed after reportedly refusing to select a team suggested to him by Flavio Briatore, who owns the R's, along with fellow Formula One magnate Bernie Ecclestone.
Sousa played 51 times for his country and had spells with Benfica, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Juventus, Internazionale, Parma and Borussia Dortmund, but his first game in charge of Rangers saw them slump to a 3-0 defeat to Watford at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
Watford, who themselves only appointed a new manager in Brendan Rodgers on Monday, were 3-0 up at half-time after a Tommy Smith penalty and further strikes from Darren Ward and Lee Williamson.
QPR's misery was compounded with Fitz Hall seeing red in the 81st minute after a foul on Will Hoskins.
Sousa said afterwards: "I have been here for two days but I cannot change everything. It was a bad performance, especially in the first half. I do not think the players have confidence in themselves and we need to work very hard.
"To change these things we need to work really hard. I believe slowly it will come. I know what I need to do. I believe in these players."
It's difficult to predict what formation or team Sousa will field in his first home game in charge on Tuesday night.
What is certain is that Sousa will be without the suspended Hall, while Rowan Vine and Akos Buzsaky are sidelined with long-term injuries.
Former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Radek Cerny is likely to start in goal, with the likes of Damien Delaney, Damion Stewart, Peter Ramage and Kaspars Gorkss pushing for places in defence. Matthew Connolly is struggling with a back injury he picked up against Burnley.
In midfield, Argentine winger Emmanuel Ledesma earned a recall to the starting XI at Vicarage Road after scoring for the reserves last week, but was substituted in the 53rd minute for on-loan Real Madrid player Daniel Parejo, who has recovered from a back problem. Ledesma picked up his fifth yellow card of the season in Hertfordshire but his ban will not start until the weekend and should line up on the flank.
Two from Mikele Leigertwood, Gavin Mahon, Damiano Tommasi and Parejo will take their places in the engine room, with Hogan Ephraim on the other wing.
On-loan Fulham man Lee Cook, who had a temporary spell with the Addicks last term, missed Saturday's game with a knee injury, while Martin Rowlands was absent with a back complaint.
Patrick Agyemang is likely to partner the lively Dexter Blackstock in attack, although Samuel Di Carmine is another option.
QPR will use the game to celebrate the memory of former R's youth-team starlet Kiyan Prince, who was stabbed to death at the age of 15 following an altercation with another student outside the gates of the London Academy in Edgware in May 2006.
Past meetings
Charlton's last victory at Loftus Road came in the first leg of a League Cup second-round tie in September 1998, when a Shaun Newton strike and a Lee Harper own goal earned the Addicks a 2-0 victory.
In the second leg at The Valley, Eddie Youds was on target as Charlton sealed a 3-0 aggregate victory.
The season before, the Addicks earned a 4-2 win in the league at Loftus Road through a John Robinson brace and goals from Steve Jones and Phil Chapple, who Parkinson revealed on Monday would become more involved in first-team duties.
Last season, QPR ended Charlton's fading play-off hopes with a 1-0 victory in West London after a 15th-minute strike by Blackstock.
The meeting at The Valley had also ended in a 1-0 win for Rangers, with Pardew afterwards calling his team's performance against the then-bottom side 'inept'.
There was a silver lining, however, in the shape of academy youth product Basey, who was handed his full Charlton debut by the then-Valley boss.
The first meeting between the teams was way back in the 1921/22 season when a crowd of 10,000 witnessed a 1-1 draw at The Valley in the (old) Division Three South. Arthur Whalley scored Charlton's goal that day.
The overall record stands at 20 QPR wins to Charlton's 22, with 20 draws.
Team news
Like QPR, it's hard to gauge what side or formation Parkinson will go for in his first match in charge, but Keith Gillespie is in line to make his Addicks debut after joining on loan from Sheffield United until January 3rd.
Parkinson must decide whether to keep faith with Nicky Weaver in goal or hand a first league start of the campaign to young Rob Elliot.
Mark Hudson and Linvoy Primus are likely to continue at centre-half, although Martin Cranie is waiting in the wings, and although Jonathan Fortune is fit again, he has only played one reserve-team outing following a knee injury. Cranie is also another option at right-back instead of Yassin Moutaouakil.
Kelly Youga scored an own goal and was replaced shortly after half-time on Saturday so Basey will be bidding for a recall at left-back at Loftus Road.
If Parkinson names a five-man midfield, Hameur Bouazza, Luke Varney, Basey, Lloyd Sam or Gillespie could start on the flanks, with three from Matt Holland, Jose Semedo, Nicky Bailey, Therry Racon, Josh Wright and Jonjo Shelvey in the centre.
Andy Gray may lead the attack alone, unless Parkinson plays two up front where he could be joined by Martyn Waghorn, Varney, Svetoslav Todorov, Chris Dickson or Izale McLeod.
Ticket news
Tickets for Parkinson's first match in caretaker charge of the Addicks remain on general sale.
Upper-tier seats are priced £30 adults, £20 over 60s and U21s for the clash at Loftus Road on Tuesday, November 25th (8pm).
QPR have confirmed that they will be selling seats on the night to Charlton supporters. These will be available from the School End upper tier turnstiles and admission is by cash only.
However, Rangers have informed the club that any supporters purchasing a ticket whom they believe to be aged from 16-20 must be able to prove their age at the turnstiles. If proof of age cannot be supplied, and QPR believe the may be aged over 21, fans will be refused admission.
Tickets will also be on sale to personal visitors to The Valley until 2pm on Tuesday but it is not now possible to purchase online or at the Bexleyheath retail outlet.
The Addicks have two wheelchair spaces, which are priced £15 (including a free helper).
Fans should also note that Valley Away coach travel is now completely sold out.
Live commentary of the QPR match will be available on BBC LONDON 94.9, and the same commentary will also provide coverage for Charlton's new video website - CAFC TV.
As well as live commentary, CAFC TV subscribers will also be able to take advantage of the live matchday centre, featuring text commentary, a constantly updating league table and statistics.
And from Wednesday, CAFC TV subscribers will be able to log on to the new website and see video match highlights of the game against the R's.
CAFC TV is a subscription service, and is priced 99p for a four-day trial, £3.99 per month, or from £34.99 per year.
Supporters who wish to find out more about CAFC TV, from its benefits to the system requirements, can find some detailed information about the new website here.
Fans can see CAFC TV - and sign up - here.
Fans can also read Ian Cartwright's travel guide to QPR here.
Opposition website: www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk Charlton
For additional football articles and views - and to offer your own views, if interested: Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
- Racist Chanting at Football Grounds...Arrest Figures for Clubs (including QPR)
- Board Discussion re supposed new QPR Financial Loans-
- Another Mittal Getting OUT of Football Ownership-
- Ali Russell in South Africa for Soccerex Conference. Scheduled to speak today at the conference re Football Sponsorship
-Snippet/Unlikely rumour re QPR interest in Ben Sahar and Scott Sinclair (Of course, there is now, a Sousa-Scolari connection!)-
- Could have been Ranger, Clint Morrison, confident
- - Tax hikes and credit crunch threaten (Football) talent exodus
- Ex-QPR, England International Would Still like to Manage or Coach....
- Last surviving player of Alec Stock's 1958/49 Yeovil team, dies
- Author of Email published in The Daily Mail, comes forward
QPR vs CHARLTON TONIGHT
QPR have the possible misfortunate to play Charlton tonight, with Charlton having the possible boost of a manager being axed and QPR having crashed to Watford and having various internal issues. For QPR, it's of course the home debut of the Sousa-Briatore team. Charlton have one away win this season!... Charlton's stats for the season....
- Past QPR vs Charlton Results. QPR did the double over Charlton last season: The clubs last met in April at Loftus Road, which QPR won 1-0,through Blackstock. The two teams:
QPR: Camp, Delaney, Mahon, Stewart, Blackstock, Ainsworth (Buzsaky 51), Rowlands, Connolly, Ephraim (Leigertwood 79, Hall (Mancienne 34), Balanta. Subs: Crowther, Lee.
Charlton Athletic: Weaver, Thatcher, Zhi (Semedo 74), McCarthy, Cook (Varney 23), Holland, Gray (Iwelumo 60), Ambrose, Bougherra, Halford, Lita. Subs: Randolph, Wagstaff. - Match Reports
Charlton Official Site
. Tom Harvey reports Queens Park Rangers v Charlton
Charlton will have little time to reflect on the dramatic events of Saturday, as a London derby against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road awaits the Addicks on Tuesday night (8pm).
It's more than 10 years since the Addicks last tasted success at QPR, and another victory would do wonders to boost morale around The Valley after Saturday's 5-2 defeat to Sheffield United in SE7.
Not only did the loss put Charlton back in the Championship relegation places, it also spelled the end of Alan Pardew's time as manager, with the former Reading and West Ham United boss leaving The Valley by mutual consent on Saturday evening.
With Pardew's assistant Phil Parkinson placed in temporary charge for the trip to West London, Charlton will be bidding to get their campaign up and running against the R's, who themselves only appointed a new manager - or first-team coach - in Paulo Sousa last week.
Charlton will surely not play much worse this season than they did against the Blades at the weekend, with a catalogue of errors contributing to the defeat - and Pardew's departure after just under two years in charge.
As Pardew stated afterwards in his post-match press conference, a team will not win games if they gift the opposition goals, and it's a problem the Addicks - and Parkinson - must address before they meet QPR.
As they have on countless occasions this term, Charlton again failed to deal with set-pieces, and Parkinson, who has previously managed at Colchester United and Hull City, will be hoping the Addicks can turn in a better defensive performance at Loftus Road.
He believes nearly every goal conceded against the Blades could have been avoided, and must now attempt to lift Charlton's spirits for what is likely to be a tough test against Rangers.
The opposition
Like Charlton, the 2008/09 season has been pretty eventful at QPR, although the club is in the healthier position of 12th going into Tuesday's match.
Former Addicks head coach Iain Dowie took over Rangers in the summer, but left in October, with former Portugal midfielder Sousa taking over last week.
Dowie, who took charge of just 15 Charlton games, was dismissed after reportedly refusing to select a team suggested to him by Flavio Briatore, who owns the R's, along with fellow Formula One magnate Bernie Ecclestone.
Sousa played 51 times for his country and had spells with Benfica, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Juventus, Internazionale, Parma and Borussia Dortmund, but his first game in charge of Rangers saw them slump to a 3-0 defeat to Watford at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
Watford, who themselves only appointed a new manager in Brendan Rodgers on Monday, were 3-0 up at half-time after a Tommy Smith penalty and further strikes from Darren Ward and Lee Williamson.
QPR's misery was compounded with Fitz Hall seeing red in the 81st minute after a foul on Will Hoskins.
Sousa said afterwards: "I have been here for two days but I cannot change everything. It was a bad performance, especially in the first half. I do not think the players have confidence in themselves and we need to work very hard.
"To change these things we need to work really hard. I believe slowly it will come. I know what I need to do. I believe in these players."
It's difficult to predict what formation or team Sousa will field in his first home game in charge on Tuesday night.
What is certain is that Sousa will be without the suspended Hall, while Rowan Vine and Akos Buzsaky are sidelined with long-term injuries.
Former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Radek Cerny is likely to start in goal, with the likes of Damien Delaney, Damion Stewart, Peter Ramage and Kaspars Gorkss pushing for places in defence. Matthew Connolly is struggling with a back injury he picked up against Burnley.
In midfield, Argentine winger Emmanuel Ledesma earned a recall to the starting XI at Vicarage Road after scoring for the reserves last week, but was substituted in the 53rd minute for on-loan Real Madrid player Daniel Parejo, who has recovered from a back problem. Ledesma picked up his fifth yellow card of the season in Hertfordshire but his ban will not start until the weekend and should line up on the flank.
Two from Mikele Leigertwood, Gavin Mahon, Damiano Tommasi and Parejo will take their places in the engine room, with Hogan Ephraim on the other wing.
On-loan Fulham man Lee Cook, who had a temporary spell with the Addicks last term, missed Saturday's game with a knee injury, while Martin Rowlands was absent with a back complaint.
Patrick Agyemang is likely to partner the lively Dexter Blackstock in attack, although Samuel Di Carmine is another option.
QPR will use the game to celebrate the memory of former R's youth-team starlet Kiyan Prince, who was stabbed to death at the age of 15 following an altercation with another student outside the gates of the London Academy in Edgware in May 2006.
Past meetings
Charlton's last victory at Loftus Road came in the first leg of a League Cup second-round tie in September 1998, when a Shaun Newton strike and a Lee Harper own goal earned the Addicks a 2-0 victory.
In the second leg at The Valley, Eddie Youds was on target as Charlton sealed a 3-0 aggregate victory.
The season before, the Addicks earned a 4-2 win in the league at Loftus Road through a John Robinson brace and goals from Steve Jones and Phil Chapple, who Parkinson revealed on Monday would become more involved in first-team duties.
Last season, QPR ended Charlton's fading play-off hopes with a 1-0 victory in West London after a 15th-minute strike by Blackstock.
The meeting at The Valley had also ended in a 1-0 win for Rangers, with Pardew afterwards calling his team's performance against the then-bottom side 'inept'.
There was a silver lining, however, in the shape of academy youth product Basey, who was handed his full Charlton debut by the then-Valley boss.
The first meeting between the teams was way back in the 1921/22 season when a crowd of 10,000 witnessed a 1-1 draw at The Valley in the (old) Division Three South. Arthur Whalley scored Charlton's goal that day.
The overall record stands at 20 QPR wins to Charlton's 22, with 20 draws.
Team news
Like QPR, it's hard to gauge what side or formation Parkinson will go for in his first match in charge, but Keith Gillespie is in line to make his Addicks debut after joining on loan from Sheffield United until January 3rd.
Parkinson must decide whether to keep faith with Nicky Weaver in goal or hand a first league start of the campaign to young Rob Elliot.
Mark Hudson and Linvoy Primus are likely to continue at centre-half, although Martin Cranie is waiting in the wings, and although Jonathan Fortune is fit again, he has only played one reserve-team outing following a knee injury. Cranie is also another option at right-back instead of Yassin Moutaouakil.
Kelly Youga scored an own goal and was replaced shortly after half-time on Saturday so Basey will be bidding for a recall at left-back at Loftus Road.
If Parkinson names a five-man midfield, Hameur Bouazza, Luke Varney, Basey, Lloyd Sam or Gillespie could start on the flanks, with three from Matt Holland, Jose Semedo, Nicky Bailey, Therry Racon, Josh Wright and Jonjo Shelvey in the centre.
Andy Gray may lead the attack alone, unless Parkinson plays two up front where he could be joined by Martyn Waghorn, Varney, Svetoslav Todorov, Chris Dickson or Izale McLeod.
Ticket news
Tickets for Parkinson's first match in caretaker charge of the Addicks remain on general sale.
Upper-tier seats are priced £30 adults, £20 over 60s and U21s for the clash at Loftus Road on Tuesday, November 25th (8pm).
QPR have confirmed that they will be selling seats on the night to Charlton supporters. These will be available from the School End upper tier turnstiles and admission is by cash only.
However, Rangers have informed the club that any supporters purchasing a ticket whom they believe to be aged from 16-20 must be able to prove their age at the turnstiles. If proof of age cannot be supplied, and QPR believe the may be aged over 21, fans will be refused admission.
Tickets will also be on sale to personal visitors to The Valley until 2pm on Tuesday but it is not now possible to purchase online or at the Bexleyheath retail outlet.
The Addicks have two wheelchair spaces, which are priced £15 (including a free helper).
Fans should also note that Valley Away coach travel is now completely sold out.
Live commentary of the QPR match will be available on BBC LONDON 94.9, and the same commentary will also provide coverage for Charlton's new video website - CAFC TV.
As well as live commentary, CAFC TV subscribers will also be able to take advantage of the live matchday centre, featuring text commentary, a constantly updating league table and statistics.
And from Wednesday, CAFC TV subscribers will be able to log on to the new website and see video match highlights of the game against the R's.
CAFC TV is a subscription service, and is priced 99p for a four-day trial, £3.99 per month, or from £34.99 per year.
Supporters who wish to find out more about CAFC TV, from its benefits to the system requirements, can find some detailed information about the new website here.
Fans can see CAFC TV - and sign up - here.
Fans can also read Ian Cartwright's travel guide to QPR here.
Opposition website: www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk Charlton
Departure of QPR's Long-Serving Club Secretary Sheila Marson Noted
-
Charles Sale/Daily Mail
'...Queens Park Rangers, a club in meltdown behind the scenes, yesterday parted company with highly-regarded secretary Sheila Marson, who has been at Loftus Road since the 1970s. It's understood Marson, whose many tasks included sorting out contracts, no longer fitted in with the Flavio Briatore regime" Daily Mail
[Beyond the curt QPR announcement (see below), there was no additional information given for the cause for the departure of Marson, who worked with several QPR Chairman; numerous QPR Managers; hundreds of QPR players; and thousands of QPR fans. Some messageboard posters ( eroneously speculated that Marson was responsible for that supposed "insider" email which the Daily Mailwrote about.]
Responding to this messageboard rumour: Dave McIntyre on BBC 606: "...I think it's inevitable given the timing that people will speculate that the e-mail you're referring to came from Sheila Marson. It didn't." BBC 606
[How QPR announced Marson's Departure "QPR Official Site - SHEILA MARSON
Queens Park Rangers Football Club can confirm that Club Secretary Sheila Marson's employment has terminated, as of today, Monday 24th November 2008.
The details surrounding Ms Marson's departure are confidential and therefore, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this stage." QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Charles Sale/Daily Mail
'...Queens Park Rangers, a club in meltdown behind the scenes, yesterday parted company with highly-regarded secretary Sheila Marson, who has been at Loftus Road since the 1970s. It's understood Marson, whose many tasks included sorting out contracts, no longer fitted in with the Flavio Briatore regime" Daily Mail
[Beyond the curt QPR announcement (see below), there was no additional information given for the cause for the departure of Marson, who worked with several QPR Chairman; numerous QPR Managers; hundreds of QPR players; and thousands of QPR fans. Some messageboard posters ( eroneously speculated that Marson was responsible for that supposed "insider" email which the Daily Mailwrote about.]
Responding to this messageboard rumour: Dave McIntyre on BBC 606: "...I think it's inevitable given the timing that people will speculate that the e-mail you're referring to came from Sheila Marson. It didn't." BBC 606
[How QPR announced Marson's Departure "QPR Official Site - SHEILA MARSON
Queens Park Rangers Football Club can confirm that Club Secretary Sheila Marson's employment has terminated, as of today, Monday 24th November 2008.
The details surrounding Ms Marson's departure are confidential and therefore, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this stage." QPR
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Monday, November 24, 2008
Also Out: QPR's Chief Scout Fillipo Orlando "By Mutual Consent,With Immediate Effect"
-
Also Leaving: Fillipo Orlando "by mutual consent, with immediate effect." Orlando came to QPR last season after Briatore's takeover.
- QPR Official Site
Also Leaving: Fillipo Orlando "by mutual consent, with immediate effect." Orlando came to QPR last season after Briatore's takeover.
- QPR Official Site
QPR Confirm "Club Secretary Sheila Marson's Employment was "Terminated"
-
And that's how after a quarter of a century or so at QPR, this is how it's announced. [No information about the reason for Marson's departure (but one erroneous rumour: It was NOT because she was responsible for that supposed "insider" email that was circulating and that the Daily Mail published.]
QPR Official Site - SHEILA MARSON
Queens Park Rangers Football Club can confirm that Club Secretary Sheila Marson's employment has terminated, as of today, Monday 24th November 2008.
The details surrounding Ms Marson's departure are confidential and therefore, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this stage." QPR
- Updated Staff Directory
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
And that's how after a quarter of a century or so at QPR, this is how it's announced. [No information about the reason for Marson's departure (but one erroneous rumour: It was NOT because she was responsible for that supposed "insider" email that was circulating and that the Daily Mail published.]
QPR Official Site - SHEILA MARSON
Queens Park Rangers Football Club can confirm that Club Secretary Sheila Marson's employment has terminated, as of today, Monday 24th November 2008.
The details surrounding Ms Marson's departure are confidential and therefore, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this stage." QPR
- Updated Staff Directory
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
OUT at QPR: After Numerous Years as QPR's Club Secretary, Sheila Marson Reportedly Departs
-
Not yet announced by the club; her name remains on the Staff Directory.
But there are numerous reliable messagbord posts re the departure of Club Secretary, Sheila Marson. Marson came to QPR from Chelsea. She was originally the Assistant Secretary to Ron Phillips.
Not yet announced by the club; her name remains on the Staff Directory.
But there are numerous reliable messagbord posts re the departure of Club Secretary, Sheila Marson. Marson came to QPR from Chelsea. She was originally the Assistant Secretary to Ron Phillips.
A Positive First Impression of Sousa
-
Dave McIntyre/BBC 606 - First impressions
- Whether Paulo Sousa can help steer QPR in the right direction remains to be seen. I’m sceptical, to put it mildly.
- That’s no reflection on Sousa. I just believe there isn’t a manager/coach in the world capable of delivering success for Rangers at the moment.
- But while even a world-class coach would struggle to turn Rangers into promotion candidates, a bad one could easily turn them into relegation candidates, so Sousa needs to be made of the right stuff.
- Having not so much as met the man before, my first impressions are based only on what I’ve heard, his polished press conference after yesterday’s game at Watford and QPR World footage of his introductory speech to the players.
- That icebreaker at the training ground this week was virtually meaningless - the kind of thing new managers usually say on their first day (apart from references to the "project" - a word I'm beginning to develop an irrational hatred of).
- Sousa told the players that those who didn’t pull their weight would be out and very much gave the impression of a man in control.
- Strong words, and no doubt reassuring to many who watched it, but no-one in the room will have been fooled.
- After all, while this was happening, the club were trying to bring in Heidar Helguson from Bolton – a signing the new man had nothing to do with.
- And given the contracts and wages handed out to players in the last year, getting rid of underperformers will be easier said than done, as the club discovered after the excesses of the Chris Wright era.
- But Sousa followed that pretty empty speech with an excellent piece of man-management by going to see the injured Akos Buzsaky in hospital.
- Doing that on his first day in the job was a nice touch and far more significant than his earlier words to the players.
- Sousa again conducted himself well after the debacle at Watford, where his new team were diabolical.
- It would have been easy for him to skip the post-match press conference or simply say that his first game in charge is really against Charlton on Tuesday, effectively shifting the blame onto Gareth Ainsworth. He did neither.
- Instead he immediately praised Ainsworth, saying “what he has been through has not been easy, and I have to thank him for all the help he has given me.”
- It was sincere and unprompted praise, and again suggested Sousa has good judgement and man-management skills.
- Like Gigi De Canio, he has thrown himself into working with the current squad rather than taking the easy option of hinting at past mistakes and changes in personnel that are needed.
- Unlike De Canio, he speaks English and will have no problems at all getting his message across.
- He also answers questions directly, whereas De Canio, who was in a difficult situation and reliant on a translator, sometimes replied to questions with the stock answer that he enjoyed working in England was impressed with the standard of football.
- At one point yesterday, Sousa stated that major changes were needed and was then asked if he had contradicted himself given that he had earlier stated he believed in his current squad.
- He very calmly clarified what he meant by explaining that major changes were needed with the current set of players.
- There was also a touch of realism thrown in, which suggested Sousa has done his homework.
- Many new managers, especially those from overseas, immediately talk about getting to work on the training ground to improve things.
- That can be a misguided way of thinking given the amount of games and relatively little training time managers get in England and, interestingly, this was a point Sousa himself made.
- Overall, it was a brief but interesting introduction to a guy who’ll need copious amounts of the tact and confidence he’s already shown glimpses of. The shambles he saw on the pitch is nothing to the shambles he’ll encounter off it.
- The game itself was a disaster and underlined how relatively little progress Rangers have made despite their big spending.
- So good luck, Paulo. You’ve no idea what you’ve got yourself into. BBC606
Visit theQPR Report Messageboard
Dave McIntyre/BBC 606 - First impressions
- Whether Paulo Sousa can help steer QPR in the right direction remains to be seen. I’m sceptical, to put it mildly.
- That’s no reflection on Sousa. I just believe there isn’t a manager/coach in the world capable of delivering success for Rangers at the moment.
- But while even a world-class coach would struggle to turn Rangers into promotion candidates, a bad one could easily turn them into relegation candidates, so Sousa needs to be made of the right stuff.
- Having not so much as met the man before, my first impressions are based only on what I’ve heard, his polished press conference after yesterday’s game at Watford and QPR World footage of his introductory speech to the players.
- That icebreaker at the training ground this week was virtually meaningless - the kind of thing new managers usually say on their first day (apart from references to the "project" - a word I'm beginning to develop an irrational hatred of).
- Sousa told the players that those who didn’t pull their weight would be out and very much gave the impression of a man in control.
- Strong words, and no doubt reassuring to many who watched it, but no-one in the room will have been fooled.
- After all, while this was happening, the club were trying to bring in Heidar Helguson from Bolton – a signing the new man had nothing to do with.
- And given the contracts and wages handed out to players in the last year, getting rid of underperformers will be easier said than done, as the club discovered after the excesses of the Chris Wright era.
- But Sousa followed that pretty empty speech with an excellent piece of man-management by going to see the injured Akos Buzsaky in hospital.
- Doing that on his first day in the job was a nice touch and far more significant than his earlier words to the players.
- Sousa again conducted himself well after the debacle at Watford, where his new team were diabolical.
- It would have been easy for him to skip the post-match press conference or simply say that his first game in charge is really against Charlton on Tuesday, effectively shifting the blame onto Gareth Ainsworth. He did neither.
- Instead he immediately praised Ainsworth, saying “what he has been through has not been easy, and I have to thank him for all the help he has given me.”
- It was sincere and unprompted praise, and again suggested Sousa has good judgement and man-management skills.
- Like Gigi De Canio, he has thrown himself into working with the current squad rather than taking the easy option of hinting at past mistakes and changes in personnel that are needed.
- Unlike De Canio, he speaks English and will have no problems at all getting his message across.
- He also answers questions directly, whereas De Canio, who was in a difficult situation and reliant on a translator, sometimes replied to questions with the stock answer that he enjoyed working in England was impressed with the standard of football.
- At one point yesterday, Sousa stated that major changes were needed and was then asked if he had contradicted himself given that he had earlier stated he believed in his current squad.
- He very calmly clarified what he meant by explaining that major changes were needed with the current set of players.
- There was also a touch of realism thrown in, which suggested Sousa has done his homework.
- Many new managers, especially those from overseas, immediately talk about getting to work on the training ground to improve things.
- That can be a misguided way of thinking given the amount of games and relatively little training time managers get in England and, interestingly, this was a point Sousa himself made.
- Overall, it was a brief but interesting introduction to a guy who’ll need copious amounts of the tact and confidence he’s already shown glimpses of. The shambles he saw on the pitch is nothing to the shambles he’ll encounter off it.
- The game itself was a disaster and underlined how relatively little progress Rangers have made despite their big spending.
- So good luck, Paulo. You’ve no idea what you’ve got yourself into. BBC606
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Helguson Loan Twist...Still Silence From QPR's Official Site
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This is Lancashire/Marc Iles - Helguson loan twist
- Heidar Helguson is back at the Reebok after his loan switch to QPR took a bizarre twist.
The Iceland international was due to make his debut in the Hoops’ game at Watford after the deal was officially announced by both clubs late last week.
But it later emerged that the move had not been completed, with Gary Megson claiming after Saturday’s game at Middlesbrough that the 31-year-old striker was still undecided as to whether he wanted to remain and fight for a place in the first team.
This is Lancashire
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This is Lancashire/Marc Iles - Helguson loan twist
- Heidar Helguson is back at the Reebok after his loan switch to QPR took a bizarre twist.
The Iceland international was due to make his debut in the Hoops’ game at Watford after the deal was officially announced by both clubs late last week.
But it later emerged that the move had not been completed, with Gary Megson claiming after Saturday’s game at Middlesbrough that the 31-year-old striker was still undecided as to whether he wanted to remain and fight for a place in the first team.
This is Lancashire
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Bolton's Helguson Off to...Charlton!
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Mirror/Alan Nixon -Bolton striker Heidar Helguson snubs QPR to sign for Charlton
- Bolton striker Heidar Helguson is signing for Charlton today - in time to make a controversial debut against QPR.
- The Icelandic star walked out on Rangers at the weekend when they tried to change the terms of his loan move from Wanderers - and now he could come back to haunt them.
- Helguson has agreed to join managerless Charlton until the start of January - with a view to a permanent deal - and he will be thrown in for a debut at Rangers tomorrow.
- Helguson's on-off transfer to the Hoops collapsed when the London outfit demanded that he signed for them until January 31, a date that would have stopped him signing for any other club if it did not work out.
- The Bolton star was due to play for the Loftus Road club at Watford on Saturday but packed his bags hours before kick-off. He is now set to meet them under very different circumstance. Mirror
Mirror/Alan Nixon -Bolton striker Heidar Helguson snubs QPR to sign for Charlton
- Bolton striker Heidar Helguson is signing for Charlton today - in time to make a controversial debut against QPR.
- The Icelandic star walked out on Rangers at the weekend when they tried to change the terms of his loan move from Wanderers - and now he could come back to haunt them.
- Helguson has agreed to join managerless Charlton until the start of January - with a view to a permanent deal - and he will be thrown in for a debut at Rangers tomorrow.
- Helguson's on-off transfer to the Hoops collapsed when the London outfit demanded that he signed for them until January 31, a date that would have stopped him signing for any other club if it did not work out.
- The Bolton star was due to play for the Loftus Road club at Watford on Saturday but packed his bags hours before kick-off. He is now set to meet them under very different circumstance. Mirror
QPR Remembering Kiyan Prince (RIP) at the Charlton Game
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QPR Official Site - QPR v CHARLTON - REMEMBERING KIYAN
Queens Park Rangers Football Club announced earlier this year that it had joined forces with Sky One's Noel's HQ to help launch the Kiyan Prince Foundation.
Prince, a former QPR player, was tragically stabbed to death at the age of 15 following an altercation with another student outside the gates of the London Academy in Edgware in May 2006.
As part of the R's partnership, the Club has dedicated tomorrow's fixture against Charlton Athletic to Kiyan - who would have been celebrating his 18th birthday - and the Foundation.
Additionally, the Club has agreed to develop a long-term relationship with the Foundation as it grows, and Mark will be invited to host a minimum of six workshops over the 2008/09 season with the ever-popular Kickz programme.
The aim of the Kiyan Prince Foundation is to raise awareness of:
*The suffering and knock on effect that knife and gun crime has on the family and friends of the victim.
*The effect the crime has on the perpetrator.
*The effect our thinking has on the choices we make.
*Connection between academic achievement and success in life.
*Empower young people to value lives and believe they can achieve their dreams in their own lives.
*Empower young people to rather walk alone than join a gang.
*To reach these aims we will have projects that educate young people to build strong minds and re-educate their minds about the carrying of weapons.
*Young people need to be happy and not afraid to think as individuals. They need achievable goals and more importantly guidance on how to reach those goals.
*They need to make choices that are best suited for their future and well-being and avoid gang involvement.
*Goals will be achieved through sports classes, tutors that specialise in various interesting fields, motivational speakers and meeting with successful men and women. We will also look to broaden awareness of the many opportunities that young people in England have that may not be available to others and look at the different ways they have achieved positive goals in their lives.
*Meeting and speaking with knife and gun victims.
The foundation's ethos will be to "Never use violence, Never threaten violence in any way."
QPR's Football in the Community Manager, Andy Evans, told www.qpr.co.uk: "The enduring image associated with Kiyan is the picture of him in the QPR kit he so dearly loved.
"As a Club, we are one hundred per-cent committed to helping Mark Prince to continue with the outstanding work he has already undertaken with the capital city's youngsters.
"We will use Tuesday's fixture to celebrate the life of Kiyan, who would have been celebrating his 18th birthday, as well as to highlight the excellent work Mark is doing in the local communities."
Evans added: "As well as celebrating his life, we will be working closely with the Foundation to deliver workshops to the participants of our Kickz programme, as well as providing a support group for Mark and his team to deliver their goals."
You can find out more about the Kiyan Prince Foundation by logging on to www.kiyan.org
For further details on QPR's involvement, call Andy Evans on 020 8740 2540. QPR
QPR Official Site - QPR v CHARLTON - REMEMBERING KIYAN
Queens Park Rangers Football Club announced earlier this year that it had joined forces with Sky One's Noel's HQ to help launch the Kiyan Prince Foundation.
Prince, a former QPR player, was tragically stabbed to death at the age of 15 following an altercation with another student outside the gates of the London Academy in Edgware in May 2006.
As part of the R's partnership, the Club has dedicated tomorrow's fixture against Charlton Athletic to Kiyan - who would have been celebrating his 18th birthday - and the Foundation.
Additionally, the Club has agreed to develop a long-term relationship with the Foundation as it grows, and Mark will be invited to host a minimum of six workshops over the 2008/09 season with the ever-popular Kickz programme.
The aim of the Kiyan Prince Foundation is to raise awareness of:
*The suffering and knock on effect that knife and gun crime has on the family and friends of the victim.
*The effect the crime has on the perpetrator.
*The effect our thinking has on the choices we make.
*Connection between academic achievement and success in life.
*Empower young people to value lives and believe they can achieve their dreams in their own lives.
*Empower young people to rather walk alone than join a gang.
*To reach these aims we will have projects that educate young people to build strong minds and re-educate their minds about the carrying of weapons.
*Young people need to be happy and not afraid to think as individuals. They need achievable goals and more importantly guidance on how to reach those goals.
*They need to make choices that are best suited for their future and well-being and avoid gang involvement.
*Goals will be achieved through sports classes, tutors that specialise in various interesting fields, motivational speakers and meeting with successful men and women. We will also look to broaden awareness of the many opportunities that young people in England have that may not be available to others and look at the different ways they have achieved positive goals in their lives.
*Meeting and speaking with knife and gun victims.
The foundation's ethos will be to "Never use violence, Never threaten violence in any way."
QPR's Football in the Community Manager, Andy Evans, told www.qpr.co.uk: "The enduring image associated with Kiyan is the picture of him in the QPR kit he so dearly loved.
"As a Club, we are one hundred per-cent committed to helping Mark Prince to continue with the outstanding work he has already undertaken with the capital city's youngsters.
"We will use Tuesday's fixture to celebrate the life of Kiyan, who would have been celebrating his 18th birthday, as well as to highlight the excellent work Mark is doing in the local communities."
Evans added: "As well as celebrating his life, we will be working closely with the Foundation to deliver workshops to the participants of our Kickz programme, as well as providing a support group for Mark and his team to deliver their goals."
You can find out more about the Kiyan Prince Foundation by logging on to www.kiyan.org
For further details on QPR's involvement, call Andy Evans on 020 8740 2540. QPR
Helguson Deal Breaks Down...Off to Charlton?
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- As rumoured on the mesageboards and on QPR Report since Saturday, but not yet announced by either club. (Bolton have removed the signing announcement from their site
The Telegraph:
"...However, Sousa will not be able to count on the services of Bolton's Heidar Helguson after a proposed loan move to QPR collapsed for a second time. Negotiations with sporting director Gianni Paladini broke down yesterday after QPR changed the terms of the deal.
If the new manager did not realise the pressures that go with joining the richest club in the country, outside the Premier League, he does now." Telegraph
The Guardian
'...In the Championship, Heidar Helguson has thumbed his nose at QPR, and will get the bus down to Charlton ... The Guardian
The SIGNING ANNOUNCEMENT
QPR Official Site - EXCLUSIVE: HEIDAR'S A HOOP
Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the arrival of Bolton Wanderers' striker Heidar Helguson, on an emergency loan deal.
The 31 year-old has put pen to paper on a deal until the end of January and goes straight in to the R's squad for the Coca Cola Championship fixture against his former Club, Watford, on Saturday.
Helguson, who has made over 40 appearances for his native Iceland, scored the only goal of the game for his country against Malta last night (Wednesday).
Bolton's Official Site re Helguson site (since removed from site)
- "...The Iceland international will stay at Loftus Road until the end of January."
Tribal Football reported "QPR are still to close a deal for Bolton Wanderers striker Heidar Helguson. The People says the R's bid to sign Helguson has collapsed for a second time - after the Bolton striker snubbed them over a change in the length of his loan deal. Helguson agreed to join Rangers until the start of January, but general boss Gianni Paladini demanded he signed until the end of the transfer window month." Tribal Football]
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- As rumoured on the mesageboards and on QPR Report since Saturday, but not yet announced by either club. (Bolton have removed the signing announcement from their site
The Telegraph:
"...However, Sousa will not be able to count on the services of Bolton's Heidar Helguson after a proposed loan move to QPR collapsed for a second time. Negotiations with sporting director Gianni Paladini broke down yesterday after QPR changed the terms of the deal.
If the new manager did not realise the pressures that go with joining the richest club in the country, outside the Premier League, he does now." Telegraph
The Guardian
'...In the Championship, Heidar Helguson has thumbed his nose at QPR, and will get the bus down to Charlton ... The Guardian
The SIGNING ANNOUNCEMENT
QPR Official Site - EXCLUSIVE: HEIDAR'S A HOOP
Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the arrival of Bolton Wanderers' striker Heidar Helguson, on an emergency loan deal.
The 31 year-old has put pen to paper on a deal until the end of January and goes straight in to the R's squad for the Coca Cola Championship fixture against his former Club, Watford, on Saturday.
Helguson, who has made over 40 appearances for his native Iceland, scored the only goal of the game for his country against Malta last night (Wednesday).
Bolton's Official Site re Helguson site (since removed from site)
- "...The Iceland international will stay at Loftus Road until the end of January."
Tribal Football reported "QPR are still to close a deal for Bolton Wanderers striker Heidar Helguson. The People says the R's bid to sign Helguson has collapsed for a second time - after the Bolton striker snubbed them over a change in the length of his loan deal. Helguson agreed to join Rangers until the start of January, but general boss Gianni Paladini demanded he signed until the end of the transfer window month." Tribal Football]
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Sharp Comment re Sousa Appointment...Success for Gino Padula
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Congratulations To Gino Padula, whose Columbus Crew won the MLS Cup - Visit the QPR Report Messageboard Sam Wallace/The Independent
"...If you want English managers to succeed, for the England team to be successful one day under an English manager, then there should be a part of you that wishes Shearer well. He represents a whole generation of former English footballers making their way in management. Something to cling to in these mad times when Queen's Park Rangers appoint a Portuguese bloke on the basis he was once a good player, even though his entire management experience concerns coaching an Under-16 team.
- If there is a place for Paulo Sousa in English football, there has to be one for Shearer too. Naturally, he will be picky because, unlike famous former England internationals from Sir Bobby Charlton to John Barnes, he will not want to be perceived as a failure in his first management job. A good way to make sure that is not the case is to start somewhere, anywhere, other than his beloved Newcastle. The Independent
Congratulations To Gino Padula, whose Columbus Crew won the MLS Cup - Visit the QPR Report Messageboard Sam Wallace/The Independent
"...If you want English managers to succeed, for the England team to be successful one day under an English manager, then there should be a part of you that wishes Shearer well. He represents a whole generation of former English footballers making their way in management. Something to cling to in these mad times when Queen's Park Rangers appoint a Portuguese bloke on the basis he was once a good player, even though his entire management experience concerns coaching an Under-16 team.
- If there is a place for Paulo Sousa in English football, there has to be one for Shearer too. Naturally, he will be picky because, unlike famous former England internationals from Sir Bobby Charlton to John Barnes, he will not want to be perceived as a failure in his first management job. A good way to make sure that is not the case is to start somewhere, anywhere, other than his beloved Newcastle. The Independent
QPR's Watford Disaster - "Rangers Were Utterly Useless"
-
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The Mirror/Mike Walters - FILTHY RICH BUT CLAP TRAP
Sousa on starting grid but will Flavio give him time? In association with COMMERCIAL VEHICLES - WATFORD 3 QPR 0
- So much for affluence and continental sophistication - QPR's dunces launched Paulo Sousa's reign by bringing a whole new meaning to the phrase stinking rich.
- After his watching brief from the stand, backseat driver Sousa revealed that Rangers' horror show had "put a few ideas in my head."
- And judging by all the headshaking and tut-tutting in the front row of the directors' box, foremost among those ideas must have been: "Oh no, what have I done?"
- With leaked emails and co-owner Flavio Briatore's alleged enthusiasm for team selection, Rangers have become a rich source of intrigue, gossip and envy.
- But if this limp display is the best they can muster to impress their fourth manager since Formula One magnate Briatore's takeover at Loftus Road, Sousa's era will be shorter than a pit-stop. Rangers were utterly useless. Mikele Leigertwood conceded a soft penalty with a senseless push on Jon Harley, while captain Gavin Mahon was hauled off at half-time.
Their misery was complete when Fitz Hall was sent off nine minutes from time for an agricultural challenge on Will Hoskins - he was dismissed on his last visit here, with Wigan, too.
Sousa had to sit through Rangers fans serenading their own team with English football's unofficial national anthem, What A Load Of Rubbish, and walking out on them en masse long before the end.
He said: "I have only been here for two days and I can't change everything, but I watched from the stands and it put a few ideas in my head.
"It was a bad performance, especially in the first half. I don't think the players had enough confidence in themselves and we need to work very hard. I have a clear picture of what we need to do."
Tommy Smith's spot-kick, Darren Ward's first goal of the season and Lee Williamson's third goal in four games under caretaker boss Malky Mackay sent Watford surging over the horizon before half-time.
On-loan Ward knows only too well the cost of hiring imported expertise in the Championship after he was sacrificed by Gianluca Vialli in Watford's ill-fated dabble with pasta, dolce vita and foreign mercenaries.
He said: "They look one of the strongest teams in this division, but here they were nothing like that. With the chairman and their money, they are expected to be up there. They have to get their heads down."
Mackay would be delighted to land the Hornets job full-time.
"People talk about experience as a manager, but I've got 10 years' experience of this division," he said.
SORRY FITZ'S HALL OF SHAME
May 2006, Watford v Crystal Palace, play-off semifinal: Starts mass brawl on touchline by disputing throw-in with Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd. Hall booked and Palace fined £50,000.
February 2007, Watford v Wigan, Premier League: Hall sent off for two-footed challenge on Johan Cavalli after 20 minutes.
November 2008, Watford v QPR, Championship: Another straight red for dangerous tackle on Watford sub Will Hoskins.
COMPUTER
...VILLAIN OF THE MATCH 4 Fitz Hall (QPR) Three red cards and a brawl in his last three visits to Vicarage Road
ANORAK This is Watford's biggest win at Vicarage Road since last February when they beat Wolves
NEXT THREE GAMES....QPR: Tomorrow: Charlton (h) Champ Sat Nov 29: Palace (a) Champ
Sat Dec 6: Wolves (h) Champ
Watford: Loach 7, Mariappa 7, DeMerit 7, Ward 7, Doyley 7, McAnuff 7 (Hoskins 78), Williamson 9 (O'Toole 82), Jenkins 7, Harley 7, Smith 8, Priskin 7. Goals: Smith 26 pen, Ward 34, Williamson 45.
Qpr: Cerny 5, Delaney 4, Stewart 3, Hall 3, Ramage 4, Mahon 4 (Tommasi 46, 4), Leigertwood 4, Ledesma 4 (Parejo 53, 4), Ephraim 5, Agyemang 3, Blackstock 4 (Di Carmine 61, 4). The Mirror
The Guardian/Mark Tallentire - Watford fans back Mackay's case as Sousa vows to rebuild QPR
- QPR's caretaker, Gareth Ainsworth, was in charge for this one as Paulo Sousa, the vaunted former Portugal midfielder and more recently an assistant coach with the national side, had not seen enough of his new squad in training. After watching 14 of his players in action from the stand Iain Dowie's successor was quick to concede he faces a busy few weeks.
- "It was a bad performance, especially the first half," said Sousa, a European Cup winner as a player with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund and from tomorrow the third man to pick the QPR team this season - the fourth if talk of the owner Flavio Briatore's input is to be believed.
- "I have a lot of work to do but I believe in my work. I know the results are coming and I believe in these players. I am here for a medium- to long-term project, to build a solid base for the Premier League. When you go to the Premier League without a base, of course you go down. I am here to change things for Flavio and the club who contracted me, to improve things. The English style, I know it. I speak with Jose Mourinho often regarding what I can do. He said he believes in me and I can get the results."
- Sousa will start from 12th place and a low base when they face managerless Charlton tomorrow after a witless performance which saw Mikele Leigertwood concede a needless penalty which was converted by Tommy Smith and promptly throw the game away before half-time, Darren Ward and Lee Williamson converting from low cut-backs in to the box. QPR then contrived to play the final six minutes with 10 men after Fitz Hall was sent off for hacking down Will Hoskins.
- Watford, who had lost five league games in a row and started in the bottom three, have a managerial conundrum of their own and the caretaker Malky Mackay will be looking to build on this success at Bristol City tomorrow. The amiable first-team coach was formally interviewed last week for the job and is on a shortlist that includes Blackpool's Simon Grayson and the out-of-work Ian Holloway, not that he had much time to reflect about his candidature as he headed for the airport and a flight to Scotland to complete the next phase of his Uefa Pro-Licence.
- "I had a good interview. I gave them my proposal as to where the club could be and how we are supposed to get it there," said Mackay, who was delighted when the fans gave their verdict before the final whistle and he responded with a thumbs-up.
- "To get the three points and come out of the relegation places was important," he said. "I have to make sure I win more games than I lose and that gives me the chance to put a case together to make the decision easier for them.
- "I've been at the club a few years, I know its heartbeat and I've been immensely proud to be caretaker manager." Advantage to the Scot.
Man of the match Tamas Priskin (Watford) The Guardian
The Telegraph/Andrew Warshaw - Watford set to name Chelsea's Brendan Rodgers as manager
- Watford are expected to end their search for a new manager this week by appointing Chelsea's reserve team coach, Brendan Rodgers, as the successor to Aidy Boothroyd.
- Rodgers, who was taken to Chelsea by Jose Mourinho, turned down the opportunity to become Boothroyd's assistant last season. Watford's poor form led to Boothroyd leaving by mutual consent earlier this month......
- Rangers are another club with a new manager. Paulo Sousa starts taking training in earnest today after being appointed as the full-time successor to Iain Dowie.
However, Sousa will not be able to count on the services of Bolton's Heidar Helguson after a proposed loan move to QPR collapsed for a second time. Negotiations with sporting director
Gianni Paladini broke down yesterday after QPR changed the terms of the deal.
If the new manager did not realise the pressures that go with joining the richest club in the country, outside the Premier League, he does now. The Telegraph
The Sun/ By PAUL JIGGINS
PAULO SOUSA proved he cannot walk on water as his introduction to English football with QPR turned into one damp squib.
West London’s newest Portu-geezer saw his Rangers side sunk — on and off the pitch.
After leaking goals against Watford, the hapless Hoops were then hit by a flooded dressing room.
A drain malfunction left new boss Sousa’s Gucci loafers looking more like bathroom loofahs as his players were forced to change in a couple of inches of shower water, which — like their club’s problems — simply refused to flush away.
The pools may have been only ankle-deep but Rangers appear to be in it right up to their necks at the moment.
Whether Sousa can turn the tide remains to be seen.
But he faces a task of King Canute proportions, according to Darren Ward.
Watford’s on-loan Wolves defender said: “It’s a bit of a funny one with them at the moment. I was speaking with QPR’s Fitz Hall and Mikele Leigertwood and they don’t know whether they’re coming or going.
“On paper they look a good club but here they looked nothing like that.
“When a new manager comes in it’s natural for players to be worried about what’s going to happen. The best way to deal with it is to think, ‘I’ve got to play well’. But that didn’t happen here.”
Ward lashed Watford 2-0 up in the 34th minute after Tommy Smith had opened the scoring with a 26th-minute spot-kick — awarded when Damion Stewart needlessly pushed Jon Harley.
Lee Williamson’s strike on the stroke of half-time wrapped up the points.
Rangers failed to rally after the break. And their nightmare was complete when Hall was sent off 10 minutes from time for a rash foul on Will Hoskins.
Sousa, who watched from the stands, said: “I’m sure you understand that now I need to believe in my players.
“After that, January is in two months.”
Watford are set to look a little closer to home for their new boss, with caretaker Malky Mackay the frontrunner after this win.
Williamson said: “The lads all hope Malky gets the job.
“We’ll know for sure in the next few days but, hopefully, we’ve given him a lift with this performance.” The Sun
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The Mirror/Mike Walters - FILTHY RICH BUT CLAP TRAP
Sousa on starting grid but will Flavio give him time? In association with COMMERCIAL VEHICLES - WATFORD 3 QPR 0
- So much for affluence and continental sophistication - QPR's dunces launched Paulo Sousa's reign by bringing a whole new meaning to the phrase stinking rich.
- After his watching brief from the stand, backseat driver Sousa revealed that Rangers' horror show had "put a few ideas in my head."
- And judging by all the headshaking and tut-tutting in the front row of the directors' box, foremost among those ideas must have been: "Oh no, what have I done?"
- With leaked emails and co-owner Flavio Briatore's alleged enthusiasm for team selection, Rangers have become a rich source of intrigue, gossip and envy.
- But if this limp display is the best they can muster to impress their fourth manager since Formula One magnate Briatore's takeover at Loftus Road, Sousa's era will be shorter than a pit-stop. Rangers were utterly useless. Mikele Leigertwood conceded a soft penalty with a senseless push on Jon Harley, while captain Gavin Mahon was hauled off at half-time.
Their misery was complete when Fitz Hall was sent off nine minutes from time for an agricultural challenge on Will Hoskins - he was dismissed on his last visit here, with Wigan, too.
Sousa had to sit through Rangers fans serenading their own team with English football's unofficial national anthem, What A Load Of Rubbish, and walking out on them en masse long before the end.
He said: "I have only been here for two days and I can't change everything, but I watched from the stands and it put a few ideas in my head.
"It was a bad performance, especially in the first half. I don't think the players had enough confidence in themselves and we need to work very hard. I have a clear picture of what we need to do."
Tommy Smith's spot-kick, Darren Ward's first goal of the season and Lee Williamson's third goal in four games under caretaker boss Malky Mackay sent Watford surging over the horizon before half-time.
On-loan Ward knows only too well the cost of hiring imported expertise in the Championship after he was sacrificed by Gianluca Vialli in Watford's ill-fated dabble with pasta, dolce vita and foreign mercenaries.
He said: "They look one of the strongest teams in this division, but here they were nothing like that. With the chairman and their money, they are expected to be up there. They have to get their heads down."
Mackay would be delighted to land the Hornets job full-time.
"People talk about experience as a manager, but I've got 10 years' experience of this division," he said.
SORRY FITZ'S HALL OF SHAME
May 2006, Watford v Crystal Palace, play-off semifinal: Starts mass brawl on touchline by disputing throw-in with Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd. Hall booked and Palace fined £50,000.
February 2007, Watford v Wigan, Premier League: Hall sent off for two-footed challenge on Johan Cavalli after 20 minutes.
November 2008, Watford v QPR, Championship: Another straight red for dangerous tackle on Watford sub Will Hoskins.
COMPUTER
...VILLAIN OF THE MATCH 4 Fitz Hall (QPR) Three red cards and a brawl in his last three visits to Vicarage Road
ANORAK This is Watford's biggest win at Vicarage Road since last February when they beat Wolves
NEXT THREE GAMES....QPR: Tomorrow: Charlton (h) Champ Sat Nov 29: Palace (a) Champ
Sat Dec 6: Wolves (h) Champ
Watford: Loach 7, Mariappa 7, DeMerit 7, Ward 7, Doyley 7, McAnuff 7 (Hoskins 78), Williamson 9 (O'Toole 82), Jenkins 7, Harley 7, Smith 8, Priskin 7. Goals: Smith 26 pen, Ward 34, Williamson 45.
Qpr: Cerny 5, Delaney 4, Stewart 3, Hall 3, Ramage 4, Mahon 4 (Tommasi 46, 4), Leigertwood 4, Ledesma 4 (Parejo 53, 4), Ephraim 5, Agyemang 3, Blackstock 4 (Di Carmine 61, 4). The Mirror
The Guardian/Mark Tallentire - Watford fans back Mackay's case as Sousa vows to rebuild QPR
- QPR's caretaker, Gareth Ainsworth, was in charge for this one as Paulo Sousa, the vaunted former Portugal midfielder and more recently an assistant coach with the national side, had not seen enough of his new squad in training. After watching 14 of his players in action from the stand Iain Dowie's successor was quick to concede he faces a busy few weeks.
- "It was a bad performance, especially the first half," said Sousa, a European Cup winner as a player with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund and from tomorrow the third man to pick the QPR team this season - the fourth if talk of the owner Flavio Briatore's input is to be believed.
- "I have a lot of work to do but I believe in my work. I know the results are coming and I believe in these players. I am here for a medium- to long-term project, to build a solid base for the Premier League. When you go to the Premier League without a base, of course you go down. I am here to change things for Flavio and the club who contracted me, to improve things. The English style, I know it. I speak with Jose Mourinho often regarding what I can do. He said he believes in me and I can get the results."
- Sousa will start from 12th place and a low base when they face managerless Charlton tomorrow after a witless performance which saw Mikele Leigertwood concede a needless penalty which was converted by Tommy Smith and promptly throw the game away before half-time, Darren Ward and Lee Williamson converting from low cut-backs in to the box. QPR then contrived to play the final six minutes with 10 men after Fitz Hall was sent off for hacking down Will Hoskins.
- Watford, who had lost five league games in a row and started in the bottom three, have a managerial conundrum of their own and the caretaker Malky Mackay will be looking to build on this success at Bristol City tomorrow. The amiable first-team coach was formally interviewed last week for the job and is on a shortlist that includes Blackpool's Simon Grayson and the out-of-work Ian Holloway, not that he had much time to reflect about his candidature as he headed for the airport and a flight to Scotland to complete the next phase of his Uefa Pro-Licence.
- "I had a good interview. I gave them my proposal as to where the club could be and how we are supposed to get it there," said Mackay, who was delighted when the fans gave their verdict before the final whistle and he responded with a thumbs-up.
- "To get the three points and come out of the relegation places was important," he said. "I have to make sure I win more games than I lose and that gives me the chance to put a case together to make the decision easier for them.
- "I've been at the club a few years, I know its heartbeat and I've been immensely proud to be caretaker manager." Advantage to the Scot.
Man of the match Tamas Priskin (Watford) The Guardian
The Telegraph/Andrew Warshaw - Watford set to name Chelsea's Brendan Rodgers as manager
- Watford are expected to end their search for a new manager this week by appointing Chelsea's reserve team coach, Brendan Rodgers, as the successor to Aidy Boothroyd.
- Rodgers, who was taken to Chelsea by Jose Mourinho, turned down the opportunity to become Boothroyd's assistant last season. Watford's poor form led to Boothroyd leaving by mutual consent earlier this month......
- Rangers are another club with a new manager. Paulo Sousa starts taking training in earnest today after being appointed as the full-time successor to Iain Dowie.
However, Sousa will not be able to count on the services of Bolton's Heidar Helguson after a proposed loan move to QPR collapsed for a second time. Negotiations with sporting director
Gianni Paladini broke down yesterday after QPR changed the terms of the deal.
If the new manager did not realise the pressures that go with joining the richest club in the country, outside the Premier League, he does now. The Telegraph
The Sun/ By PAUL JIGGINS
PAULO SOUSA proved he cannot walk on water as his introduction to English football with QPR turned into one damp squib.
West London’s newest Portu-geezer saw his Rangers side sunk — on and off the pitch.
After leaking goals against Watford, the hapless Hoops were then hit by a flooded dressing room.
A drain malfunction left new boss Sousa’s Gucci loafers looking more like bathroom loofahs as his players were forced to change in a couple of inches of shower water, which — like their club’s problems — simply refused to flush away.
The pools may have been only ankle-deep but Rangers appear to be in it right up to their necks at the moment.
Whether Sousa can turn the tide remains to be seen.
But he faces a task of King Canute proportions, according to Darren Ward.
Watford’s on-loan Wolves defender said: “It’s a bit of a funny one with them at the moment. I was speaking with QPR’s Fitz Hall and Mikele Leigertwood and they don’t know whether they’re coming or going.
“On paper they look a good club but here they looked nothing like that.
“When a new manager comes in it’s natural for players to be worried about what’s going to happen. The best way to deal with it is to think, ‘I’ve got to play well’. But that didn’t happen here.”
Ward lashed Watford 2-0 up in the 34th minute after Tommy Smith had opened the scoring with a 26th-minute spot-kick — awarded when Damion Stewart needlessly pushed Jon Harley.
Lee Williamson’s strike on the stroke of half-time wrapped up the points.
Rangers failed to rally after the break. And their nightmare was complete when Hall was sent off 10 minutes from time for a rash foul on Will Hoskins.
Sousa, who watched from the stands, said: “I’m sure you understand that now I need to believe in my players.
“After that, January is in two months.”
Watford are set to look a little closer to home for their new boss, with caretaker Malky Mackay the frontrunner after this win.
Williamson said: “The lads all hope Malky gets the job.
“We’ll know for sure in the next few days but, hopefully, we’ve given him a lift with this performance.” The Sun
Tough Mail Talk re QPR
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Charles Sale/Daily Mail
QPR deputy managing director Ali Russell, despite being paid around £225,000 a year to be an apologist for owner Flavio Briatore, is now afraid to comment on any club issue.
Russell even said 'no comment' when asked the innocuous question as to whether a certain individual still held a club position.
This is a symptom of the climate of fear at Loftus Road under motor racing tycoon owner Briatore, as exposed by a senior former club insider in Saturday's Sportsmail. Daily Mail
[] Original Daily Mail article "Charles Sale/Daily Mail - EXCLUSIVE: QPR owner Flavio Briatore branded 'a dictator and a really nasty piece of work'"
Visit QPR Report Messageboard
Charles Sale/Daily Mail
QPR deputy managing director Ali Russell, despite being paid around £225,000 a year to be an apologist for owner Flavio Briatore, is now afraid to comment on any club issue.
Russell even said 'no comment' when asked the innocuous question as to whether a certain individual still held a club position.
This is a symptom of the climate of fear at Loftus Road under motor racing tycoon owner Briatore, as exposed by a senior former club insider in Saturday's Sportsmail. Daily Mail
[] Original Daily Mail article "Charles Sale/Daily Mail - EXCLUSIVE: QPR owner Flavio Briatore branded 'a dictator and a really nasty piece of work'"
Visit QPR Report Messageboard
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Charlton Guide to QPR!
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Charlton Official Site - Date: Sat 22 Nov 2008. Ian Cartwright reports Ian Cartwright's away guide to QPR
- Our second midweek trip across London this season sees us take on Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road on Tuesday (8pm) - in what will be Phil Parkinson's first game in temporary charge of the Addicks.
- Tickets are currently on general sale and we have been allocated 1,500 seats for the clash.
- These are located in the upper tier of the School End at Loftus Road and are priced £30 adults, £20 over 60s and U21s, Rangers magnanimously climbing down from their previous pricing strategy which could have seen us paying £10 more before pressure from the entire nation forced them to change tack.
- Rangers have advised that any supporters purchasing a ticket whom they believe to be aged from 16 to 20 must be able to prove their age at the turnstiles. If proof of age cannot be supplied, and QPR believe the may be aged over 21, fans will be refused admission. Whether Bernie Ecclestone has to prove his age or not is open to question...
- The Addicks have two wheelchair spaces, which are priced £15 (including a free helper). It seems unlikely any more seats (which would have been in the lower tier) will be required by the travelling Valley faithful, but it's still quite fortunate that Rangers opt to allocate the upper tier first, as this does offer the superior view.
- However, the goal at our end and the goal-line are difficult to see fully, if at all, from a number of seats. This is better, though, than having about 50 per cent of the pitch obscured by the goal itself, as is the case in the lower tier.
- Bizarrely, although you are in the upper tier, you still feel quite close to the pitch and the view - apart from the problems mentioned earlier - is not all bad in most places, although the leg-room is a little on the small side.
- Away fans are a bit close to some Rangers fans who give a bit of banter, but this is normally good natured.
- For the upper tier, you enter the ground on the turnstiles on Ellerslie Road (it has been for the last couple of visits, anyway, but has been known to suddenly change).
- The turnstile operators at Loftus Road have always been notoriously slow and a night game will no doubt accentuate this, while there is normally a large police presence. Given it's a night game, and will be dark, be careful where you tread!
- The concourses are nothing special and the toilet queue can get quite long and confused with the queue to the catering outlets.
- Similarly to Watford and Sheffield Wednesday, there are signs advertising well known brands of lager, but you cannot actually buy the stuff. The food is the usual fare, although last season they ran out as the alcohol-deprived Addicks fans decided that they may as well eat as no beer was available.
- Should you fancy a pint, then the Springbok by the ground is now home only, so that's off the list. The best place to therefore head for is probably Shepherds Bush Green, which has a Wetherspoons, Walkabout and a couple of others. Goldhawk Road is also a good bet as that has plenty of places and Guinness connoisseurs will feel particularly at home.
- As with all London games - particularly in the evening - I would strongly recommend public transport, especially given that three tube stations are within walking distance of the ground.
- I won't recommend routes across London by car as no doubt individuals have their own preferences, however in terms of parking there is an industrial estate on Ariel Way opposite BBC Television Centre that does offer a car park facility, but this is quite dear, so street parking around this area may be a better bet. Furthermore, beware an infamous residents' only scheme in the proximity of the stadium. Charlton
Charlton Official Site - Date: Sat 22 Nov 2008. Ian Cartwright reports Ian Cartwright's away guide to QPR
- Our second midweek trip across London this season sees us take on Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road on Tuesday (8pm) - in what will be Phil Parkinson's first game in temporary charge of the Addicks.
- Tickets are currently on general sale and we have been allocated 1,500 seats for the clash.
- These are located in the upper tier of the School End at Loftus Road and are priced £30 adults, £20 over 60s and U21s, Rangers magnanimously climbing down from their previous pricing strategy which could have seen us paying £10 more before pressure from the entire nation forced them to change tack.
- Rangers have advised that any supporters purchasing a ticket whom they believe to be aged from 16 to 20 must be able to prove their age at the turnstiles. If proof of age cannot be supplied, and QPR believe the may be aged over 21, fans will be refused admission. Whether Bernie Ecclestone has to prove his age or not is open to question...
- The Addicks have two wheelchair spaces, which are priced £15 (including a free helper). It seems unlikely any more seats (which would have been in the lower tier) will be required by the travelling Valley faithful, but it's still quite fortunate that Rangers opt to allocate the upper tier first, as this does offer the superior view.
- However, the goal at our end and the goal-line are difficult to see fully, if at all, from a number of seats. This is better, though, than having about 50 per cent of the pitch obscured by the goal itself, as is the case in the lower tier.
- Bizarrely, although you are in the upper tier, you still feel quite close to the pitch and the view - apart from the problems mentioned earlier - is not all bad in most places, although the leg-room is a little on the small side.
- Away fans are a bit close to some Rangers fans who give a bit of banter, but this is normally good natured.
- For the upper tier, you enter the ground on the turnstiles on Ellerslie Road (it has been for the last couple of visits, anyway, but has been known to suddenly change).
- The turnstile operators at Loftus Road have always been notoriously slow and a night game will no doubt accentuate this, while there is normally a large police presence. Given it's a night game, and will be dark, be careful where you tread!
- The concourses are nothing special and the toilet queue can get quite long and confused with the queue to the catering outlets.
- Similarly to Watford and Sheffield Wednesday, there are signs advertising well known brands of lager, but you cannot actually buy the stuff. The food is the usual fare, although last season they ran out as the alcohol-deprived Addicks fans decided that they may as well eat as no beer was available.
- Should you fancy a pint, then the Springbok by the ground is now home only, so that's off the list. The best place to therefore head for is probably Shepherds Bush Green, which has a Wetherspoons, Walkabout and a couple of others. Goldhawk Road is also a good bet as that has plenty of places and Guinness connoisseurs will feel particularly at home.
- As with all London games - particularly in the evening - I would strongly recommend public transport, especially given that three tube stations are within walking distance of the ground.
- I won't recommend routes across London by car as no doubt individuals have their own preferences, however in terms of parking there is an industrial estate on Ariel Way opposite BBC Television Centre that does offer a car park facility, but this is quite dear, so street parking around this area may be a better bet. Furthermore, beware an infamous residents' only scheme in the proximity of the stadium. Charlton
Waiting for Helguson Explanation...Sousa as the New Mourinho?...Other Snippets: Caliendo/Briatore, Ali Russel, Gillard's Debut & Docherty's Win...MLS
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Meanwhile QPR (and Bolton) fans wait to hear the official announcement that - and explanation as to why Heidar Helguson is not after all at QPR on loan! (Ironically, yesterday was marking Two Years Since Ugo Ukah suddenly resurfaced at QPR.)
Sousa as Mourinho?
The People/Scott Piecha - 23 November 2008
SOUSA SPORTS THE JOSE LOOK - EXCLUSIVE
QPR's new boss Paulo Sousa is ready to become the new Jose Mourinho.
Mourinho took the Premier League by storm during his three year reign at Chelsea and Sousa is hoping to become the new Portuguese Prince of London.
Former Portugal international Sousa, who saw his new side lose 3-0 at Watford yesterday, said: "QPR may be in the Second Division but it smells and functions like a top flight football club. It is a very exciting challenge for me.
"I don't care what people say about my possible lack of experience. At certain moments in life you have to just take the plunge - that moment has come for me and I am not worried at all.
"Be the new Mourinho in London? I hope so because that would mean I had achieved sporting success." The People
Elsewhere: Antonio Caliendo again speaking (but subscription access needed)
- [Web Translation] SportsEconomy: Caliendo: "We never received 90 million pounds from Briatore" - Sporteconomy interviewed yesterday afternoon, Antonio Caliendo, Prosecutor of players and former owner of Queens Park Rangers (clubs currently in the second division of British football).
- "Esclusiva - Caliendo: "Mai incassati 90 milioni di sterline da Briatore" Exclusive -Sporteconomy ha intervistato ieri pomeriggio Antonio Caliendo, procuratore di calciatori ed ex proprietario del Queens Park Rangers (club attualmente in seconda divisione del football britannico).
- Also: Recent Caliendo blog Posts re QPR/Briatore
- If interested, visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additonal the latest items of interest - such as:
- "Ali Russell and David Orman Now in South Africa
- Forty Years Ago, Tommy Docherty's one QPR win achieved as Ian Gillard made his QPR Debut. Alan Mullery celebrates a birthday
- Chelsea's Chief Scout, Frank Arnessen to be Axed? (And Elano at Manchester City Update)
- "Don't Appoint a Designer Manager"
- MLS Championship Final Today, with Padula playing for Columbus Crew against New York Red Bulls
- "Football Clubs Owe Millions in Taxes"
- Profile of a Successful Championship Manager (not from QPR!)
- Juventus Building New Soccer Stadium
Your views are always welcomed on the QPR Report Messageboard!
Meanwhile QPR (and Bolton) fans wait to hear the official announcement that - and explanation as to why Heidar Helguson is not after all at QPR on loan! (Ironically, yesterday was marking Two Years Since Ugo Ukah suddenly resurfaced at QPR.)
Sousa as Mourinho?
The People/Scott Piecha - 23 November 2008
SOUSA SPORTS THE JOSE LOOK - EXCLUSIVE
QPR's new boss Paulo Sousa is ready to become the new Jose Mourinho.
Mourinho took the Premier League by storm during his three year reign at Chelsea and Sousa is hoping to become the new Portuguese Prince of London.
Former Portugal international Sousa, who saw his new side lose 3-0 at Watford yesterday, said: "QPR may be in the Second Division but it smells and functions like a top flight football club. It is a very exciting challenge for me.
"I don't care what people say about my possible lack of experience. At certain moments in life you have to just take the plunge - that moment has come for me and I am not worried at all.
"Be the new Mourinho in London? I hope so because that would mean I had achieved sporting success." The People
Elsewhere: Antonio Caliendo again speaking (but subscription access needed)
- [Web Translation] SportsEconomy: Caliendo: "We never received 90 million pounds from Briatore" - Sporteconomy interviewed yesterday afternoon, Antonio Caliendo, Prosecutor of players and former owner of Queens Park Rangers (clubs currently in the second division of British football).
- "Esclusiva - Caliendo: "Mai incassati 90 milioni di sterline da Briatore" Exclusive -Sporteconomy ha intervistato ieri pomeriggio Antonio Caliendo, procuratore di calciatori ed ex proprietario del Queens Park Rangers (club attualmente in seconda divisione del football britannico).
- Also: Recent Caliendo blog Posts re QPR/Briatore
- If interested, visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additonal the latest items of interest - such as:
- "Ali Russell and David Orman Now in South Africa
- Forty Years Ago, Tommy Docherty's one QPR win achieved as Ian Gillard made his QPR Debut. Alan Mullery celebrates a birthday
- Chelsea's Chief Scout, Frank Arnessen to be Axed? (And Elano at Manchester City Update)
- "Don't Appoint a Designer Manager"
- MLS Championship Final Today, with Padula playing for Columbus Crew against New York Red Bulls
- "Football Clubs Owe Millions in Taxes"
- Profile of a Successful Championship Manager (not from QPR!)
- Juventus Building New Soccer Stadium
Your views are always welcomed on the QPR Report Messageboard!
ALLEGEDLY: Chairman Briatore Tried to Pick a 13 Man Team
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According to the not always 100% correct, Sunday People
Sunday People/David Kidd- 23 November 2008 - FLAVIO'S 13-MAN LINE-UP
EXCLUSIVE - Flavio Briatore's attempts at picking the QPR team descended into farce - when he named THIRTEEN players in the side.
- The clueless F1 mogul, one of three wealthy owners at Loftus Road, has insisted on a hands-on role in team selection since Iain Dowie's sacking last month.
- And People Sport can reveal that before last week's Carling Cup tie against Manchester United, Briatore handed caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth a team list with 13 names on it. Ainsworth has since been replaced by first-team coach Paulo Sousa, who saw his new side thumped 3-0 at Watford yesterday - with Fitz hall sent off.
-It was believed that Ainsworth was the first choice of Briatore and co - owners Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal to take the coach's role.
- But the Old Trafford teamsheet incident led both parties to believe that the arrangement was no longer workable.
- A qpr insider said: "The players did not know whether to laugh or cry when we heard Briatore had wanted to pick 13 players.
- "Maybe he thought in a cup competition, lower division sides are allowed to pick extra players against Premier League clubs!" The People
According to the not always 100% correct, Sunday People
Sunday People/David Kidd- 23 November 2008 - FLAVIO'S 13-MAN LINE-UP
EXCLUSIVE - Flavio Briatore's attempts at picking the QPR team descended into farce - when he named THIRTEEN players in the side.
- The clueless F1 mogul, one of three wealthy owners at Loftus Road, has insisted on a hands-on role in team selection since Iain Dowie's sacking last month.
- And People Sport can reveal that before last week's Carling Cup tie against Manchester United, Briatore handed caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth a team list with 13 names on it. Ainsworth has since been replaced by first-team coach Paulo Sousa, who saw his new side thumped 3-0 at Watford yesterday - with Fitz hall sent off.
-It was believed that Ainsworth was the first choice of Briatore and co - owners Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal to take the coach's role.
- But the Old Trafford teamsheet incident led both parties to believe that the arrangement was no longer workable.
- A qpr insider said: "The players did not know whether to laugh or cry when we heard Briatore had wanted to pick 13 players.
- "Maybe he thought in a cup competition, lower division sides are allowed to pick extra players against Premier League clubs!" The People
Parejo Speaks! About QPR...About London...About Spain
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From His Blog/Guest Essay - Guillembalague.com
Dani Parejo: On playing for Spain; La Liga and QPR
- I’ve been out in Portugal this week with the Spanish U21s. Unfortunately we lost 4-1 but, in all honesty, I actually think that we played quite well overall and the scoreline doesn’t really reflect the performance. It was a friendly match so I guess that at the end of the day we should be focusing on how we play rather than the result. We controlled possession throughout and had the better of the early chances. However, they had three opportunities in the first half and scored three goals. I’m pleased with my own performance and got a good 80 minutes out on the pitch, scoring Spain’s only goal from the penalty spot.
- Guillem has just been chatting to me about our role in the junior Spanish sides and asking me if we feel any sort of pressure as the next generation that will have to follow in the footsteps of a senior side that is playing so well at the moment. The truth is that we don’t: well personally speaking, I can say that I don’t. The way I see it is that we are all part of the same team and right now I think that the Spanish national team, at all levels, is just about the best in the world. I’ve been a part of that group since I was 16 years old and like many of the others – including most of the senior players – I have worked my way up through the different age groups playing in numerous championships. Most of the various age groups are champions in their own right, for example, I was a part of the team that the U19 European Championships in Greece in 2007. So we are all Champions and while we obviously have huge respect for the guys in the senior side, we don’t see them as separate to us or feel any pressure that we will have to step up and follow on from them: it doesn't feel like we’re in their shadow. It involves a much smoother transition than that and the whole set up is about everyone working together to achieve the same aim.
- Of course, as a midfielder I look at guys like Xavi, Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Xabi Alonso and want to be in their place one day – but the important thing is we are all wearing the same shirt and it is a huge honour to be wearing the Spanish shirt and representing your country at any level. Spanish football is at an incredible level at the moment and the belief running through the side, with the players that Spain has it its disposal, everyone is enjoying it and playing every game expecting to win - and to play the game in our own way.
- I’m able to keep up with the Spanish league and always try to catch the Real Madrid games on Sky Sports. I try not to miss the Barcelona games either, even though I’m a Madrid man, but I have to admit that Guardiola’s side look very good at the moment. However, I think that Madrid should get some credit too. Everyone is talking about a crisis but at the moment we are only 5 points behind Barcelona and a lot could change in the next month.
- The problem is that Real Madrid are the best club in the world and people have this idea, this expectation, of how they should be playing every single game. Everyone starts using words like crisis after a single defeat - well sometimes not even after a defeat - sometimes after a draw. People expect Madrid to win every game and demands they win in a certain way, without taking in to account that there are some very good opponents and some tough away grounds to visit where you cannot always play the way you might want. People don’t always judge Madrid on the results, but on the performance, without realising that things aren’t how they were in the past: that there are a lot of teams in La Liga that are much more competitive than they used to be.
- Its not all bad at Madrid right now, in spite of what the press might say. There’s a lot to be positive about and I’m really pleased for Higuain. He’s finally getting the chance to show what he can do and he really deserves it. It was hard for him to get opportunities last season and he was behind Raul and Van Nistelrooy, but he’s got his chance this year, he’s more confident and he is not afraid to try things now.
- Aside from Barcelona, I have to say that I’m really impressed with Villarreal, I love the way they play and they deserve a lot of credit for doing things the right way: with a great coach. I’d really like to see them push for the Spanish title this season and if you get a chance, check them out, they’re a proper football team.
- Back in London and I’m still settling in well. The English is coming along and I’m working away trying to improve. I have my sister over here now as well and she is here to perfect her English so we are all helping each other along. I’m mates with Ledesma in the QPR dressing room as he is another Spanish speaker, but to be honest we’re trying to separate ourselves a little, otherwise we end up speaking Spanish all the time and that’s no good at all.
- As you know, there have been a few changes at QPR. Paulo Sousa, the new coach, has spoken to us already and we were all really impressed by him, he comes across really well. He also has everyone’s respect, which is very important, as a player who has won the Champions league twice and been a very important player for Portugal – he really knows where he is coming from football-wise and I’m really excited about his project. We’ve all chatted with him but not had the opportunity to train with him yet, that will be on Monday and we are all keen to get things underway.
We are away at Watford tomorrow and we must go there looking for a win. Three points could move us back up in to the top six which is where we must be, but we need to improve our form away from home. Apparently we have only scored in two league games away from Loftus Road this season and we need to improve on that; our home form has been much better and it is our away form that is costing us. We need to put that right, starting this weekend. Guillembalague.com
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard!
From His Blog/Guest Essay - Guillembalague.com
Dani Parejo: On playing for Spain; La Liga and QPR
- I’ve been out in Portugal this week with the Spanish U21s. Unfortunately we lost 4-1 but, in all honesty, I actually think that we played quite well overall and the scoreline doesn’t really reflect the performance. It was a friendly match so I guess that at the end of the day we should be focusing on how we play rather than the result. We controlled possession throughout and had the better of the early chances. However, they had three opportunities in the first half and scored three goals. I’m pleased with my own performance and got a good 80 minutes out on the pitch, scoring Spain’s only goal from the penalty spot.
- Guillem has just been chatting to me about our role in the junior Spanish sides and asking me if we feel any sort of pressure as the next generation that will have to follow in the footsteps of a senior side that is playing so well at the moment. The truth is that we don’t: well personally speaking, I can say that I don’t. The way I see it is that we are all part of the same team and right now I think that the Spanish national team, at all levels, is just about the best in the world. I’ve been a part of that group since I was 16 years old and like many of the others – including most of the senior players – I have worked my way up through the different age groups playing in numerous championships. Most of the various age groups are champions in their own right, for example, I was a part of the team that the U19 European Championships in Greece in 2007. So we are all Champions and while we obviously have huge respect for the guys in the senior side, we don’t see them as separate to us or feel any pressure that we will have to step up and follow on from them: it doesn't feel like we’re in their shadow. It involves a much smoother transition than that and the whole set up is about everyone working together to achieve the same aim.
- Of course, as a midfielder I look at guys like Xavi, Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Xabi Alonso and want to be in their place one day – but the important thing is we are all wearing the same shirt and it is a huge honour to be wearing the Spanish shirt and representing your country at any level. Spanish football is at an incredible level at the moment and the belief running through the side, with the players that Spain has it its disposal, everyone is enjoying it and playing every game expecting to win - and to play the game in our own way.
- I’m able to keep up with the Spanish league and always try to catch the Real Madrid games on Sky Sports. I try not to miss the Barcelona games either, even though I’m a Madrid man, but I have to admit that Guardiola’s side look very good at the moment. However, I think that Madrid should get some credit too. Everyone is talking about a crisis but at the moment we are only 5 points behind Barcelona and a lot could change in the next month.
- The problem is that Real Madrid are the best club in the world and people have this idea, this expectation, of how they should be playing every single game. Everyone starts using words like crisis after a single defeat - well sometimes not even after a defeat - sometimes after a draw. People expect Madrid to win every game and demands they win in a certain way, without taking in to account that there are some very good opponents and some tough away grounds to visit where you cannot always play the way you might want. People don’t always judge Madrid on the results, but on the performance, without realising that things aren’t how they were in the past: that there are a lot of teams in La Liga that are much more competitive than they used to be.
- Its not all bad at Madrid right now, in spite of what the press might say. There’s a lot to be positive about and I’m really pleased for Higuain. He’s finally getting the chance to show what he can do and he really deserves it. It was hard for him to get opportunities last season and he was behind Raul and Van Nistelrooy, but he’s got his chance this year, he’s more confident and he is not afraid to try things now.
- Aside from Barcelona, I have to say that I’m really impressed with Villarreal, I love the way they play and they deserve a lot of credit for doing things the right way: with a great coach. I’d really like to see them push for the Spanish title this season and if you get a chance, check them out, they’re a proper football team.
- Back in London and I’m still settling in well. The English is coming along and I’m working away trying to improve. I have my sister over here now as well and she is here to perfect her English so we are all helping each other along. I’m mates with Ledesma in the QPR dressing room as he is another Spanish speaker, but to be honest we’re trying to separate ourselves a little, otherwise we end up speaking Spanish all the time and that’s no good at all.
- As you know, there have been a few changes at QPR. Paulo Sousa, the new coach, has spoken to us already and we were all really impressed by him, he comes across really well. He also has everyone’s respect, which is very important, as a player who has won the Champions league twice and been a very important player for Portugal – he really knows where he is coming from football-wise and I’m really excited about his project. We’ve all chatted with him but not had the opportunity to train with him yet, that will be on Monday and we are all keen to get things underway.
We are away at Watford tomorrow and we must go there looking for a win. Three points could move us back up in to the top six which is where we must be, but we need to improve our form away from home. Apparently we have only scored in two league games away from Loftus Road this season and we need to improve on that; our home form has been much better and it is our away form that is costing us. We need to put that right, starting this weekend. Guillembalague.com
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard!
After Five Straight Losses, Watford Play QPR - and Win: Reports and Comments
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- QPR helped Watford end their run of five consecutive Championship losses. With Hall's sending off, he's definitely missing the Crystal game. And next QPR face Charlton - who yesterday axed their manager! New Manager Syndrome?
- The Times/Nick Townsend - Watford inflict misery on QPR: Watford 3 QPR 0
- It is doubtful whether Paulo Sousa had this in mind for his debut as a club manager. (Or, as QPR prefer to refer to their men in charge, first-team coach.) The former Portugal international midfielder’s reaction to his appointment at Loftus Road had apparently been: “I always wanted to work for a big club.”
- Perhaps he believed that with its proximity to Chelsea, managed by the former Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari - under whom he was assistant with the national side for five years - he would discover a similar preponderance of quality, or at least potential.
- Despite his declaration afterwards that “I believe in these players and that results will come”, this will have injected reality. Rangers made Watford, still in relegation peril, look like assured promotion challengers, not a side that have been on a losing run of five league defeats. If Malky Mackay, a candidate for Watford manager, required a boost to his CV, the visitors couldn’t have been more compliant on an afternoon of misery.
- Normally, players turn it on for the new boss. Here barely one of them advertised their claim to a shirt next week.
- However, QPR, already well off the promotion pace, insist they are a big-club-in-waiting - once their potential is realised by their monied owners, Flavio Briatore and his associates, in conjunction with the right man in charge.
- According to Briatore, he consulted Scolari and Jose Mourinho before confirming the appointment of Sousa. Though he is Rangers’ third “manager” already this season, the new man insisted: “There is no pressure. I’m here for the medium to long term, to build a solid base to go to the Premier League. If you go to the Premier League without that base, of course you go down.”
- Life is no less complex at Watford, who are still deliberating over their own vacancy. Mackay, who was interviewed on Wednesday, admitted: “I’d be delighted to get the job. This helps my case.”
- Watford had the game won by half-time. Tommy Smith, the club’s leading scorer, converted a penalty awarded for a push by Damion Stewart on Tamas Priskin. Darren Ward soon added a second and the impressive Lee Williamson placed it beyond the visitors with a fine drive.
- Rangers’ Fitz Hall was dismissed late on for a foul on Watford substitute Will Hoskins. It could hardly get any worse for their new manager. He can comfort himself with the thought that, under him, things can only get better.
-Star man:Lee Williamson (Watford)
WATFORD:Loach 6, Mariappa 6, Ward 7, DeMerit 7, Doyley 6, McAnuff 7 (Hoskins 78), Williamson 8 (O’Toole 82min), Harley 7, Jenkins 6, Priskin 7, Smith 7.
QPR:Cerny 6, Delaney 6, Stewart 6, Hall 5, Ramage 6, Mahon 5 (Tommasi 45min, 5), Leigertwood 6, Ledesma 6 (Parejo 53min, 5), Ephraim 6, Blackstock 5 (Di Carmine 61min), Agyemang 6
Yellow cards: Watford: Harley QPR: Mahon, Lesdma, StewartRed card: QPR: Hall
Referee:A Penn Attendance:16,201 The Times
INDEPENDENT/Conrad Leach - Sousa's new boys start on duff note
- Paulo Sousa was not on the touchline for this appallingdisplay by the team he now manages. Having seen what he has taken on at Queens Park Rangers, the former Portuguese international may wish tomaintain his distance.
From winning the European Cup twice, in 1996 and 1997,famously with different clubs, it has come to this. Sousa agreed to take over at the troubled west London club on Wednesday.
Afterwards, however, he didn't try to hide the all-too-obvious truth. Sousa said: "This was a bad performance today. I'm here to change things because things have not been going well."
He then added, somewhat bravely: "There is no pressure on me. I'm here for the mediumto long term, to build a base to get to the Premier League."
It remains to be seen whether he will get the time to jolt this team into life, let alone back to the top division. After all, his employer, Flavio Briatore, has already shown he is a man of little patience – Sousa is the third manager since the Italian bought into the club.
Watford had lost five League games in a row, but QPR somehow made the Hornets looklike a top-three side in the Championship, not a bottom- three one, which was where they started the day.
With both sides lookingwitless, the hosts were awardeda penalty after 26 minutes for a push, and Tommy Smith hit the spot-kick low to Radek Cerny's left.
Seven minutes later Watford, with caretaker-manager Malky Mackay in charge at home for the first time, doubled their lead. Jon Harley passed to Darren Ward, who scored from 10 yards. Mackay was interviewed last Wednesday for the permanent position, and said: "I'd be delighted to get the job."
For Sousa, whose European Cup wins were with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, the size of the task ahead became even clearer when Smith set up Lee Williamson for the third in the last minute of the first half. Fitz Hall's dismissal with 10 minutes left, for a pointless hack on the substitute Will Hoskins, at least gave Sousa one less selection problem for next week. Independent
TELEGRAPH/Andrew Warshaw - Paulo Sousa watches Queens Park Rangers have pockets picked by Watford
- In one sense, Watford and Queens Park Rangers are similar. Both are underachievers, troubled by off-the-field turbulence and criticised by disgruntled fans. In another they could not be more different: one of them up for sale with no sign of fresh investment, the other bankrolled by some of the game's richest investors. All of which made for an intriguing London derby.
- Having seen Elton John, their life president and most high-profile icon, resign and Adie Boothroyd removed as manager, Watford were in dire need of a tonic after five straight league defeats that had seen them plummet into the bottom three. But so were Rangers, of whom great things were anticipated in the summer but who have just appointed their sixth manager in two years amid constant allegations that new owner Flavio Briatore is adopting something of a dictatorial role by meddling in team affairs.
- The latest manager, former Portugal international Paolo Sousa, only met the players on Thursday, so left tactics to Gareth Ainsworth, back as player-coach after a brief stint as caretaker. While Briatore took his seat in the directors box, Sousa watched the game from just behind the dugout and must have wondered what on earth he has taken on, as his team were sunk by half-time and played the last 10 minutes one short after Fitz Hall was shown a straight red card for a reckless lunge.
- One man's meat, of course, is another's poison. Watford are on the verge of appointing the latest manager of their own and Malky Mackay, in temporary control, will have done his case no harm.
- Tommy Smith sent Radek Cerny the wrong way with a penalty to open the score after a push by Damion Stewart and eight minutes later Darren Ward doubled the lead. Dexter Blackstock missed a chance to reduce the deficit before Smith delivered a terrific ball after a great run and Lee Williamson turned it in.
- Sousa was philosophical, saying: "Today was bad, but I have only been here two days and cannot change everything overnight. I am here on a mid to long-term project to build a solid base to get us to the Premier League."
Where have we heard that before? Telegraph
QPR Official Site - TIME FOR CHANGE
QPR's 3-0 defeat to Watford proved food for thought for new Manager Paulo Sousa, as the R's gaffer left Gareth Ainsworth in charge of First Team affairs at Vicarage Road.
Goals from Tommy Smith, Darren Ward and Lee Williamson gave the Hornets victory, yet despite the R's disappointing display, Sousa chose to look to the future.
"It was a bad performance, but I've been here for just two days," he told wwww.qpr.co.uk
"I watched from the stands today and it put some ideas in my head and I know I must change things.
"It's not easy to work on change when you've got two games a week, because you need to rest. But I believe in my own ability to make these changes and I'm confident we will make them."
Sousa was angered at the award of the Watford spot-kick, which saw Mikele Leigertwood penalised for an apparent push in the Rangers penalty box.
He commented: "I saw the same thing going on in the Watford box, on both Dexter and Patrick.
"But that's football isn't it and sometimes you get the decisions and other times you don't."
Sousa also touched upon Fitz Hall's late dismissal, commenting: "I thought the referee could have been more sweet!
"We were 3-0 down and the game was over, but he should have protected our player more.
"It's disappointing, because we'll lose Fitz now and we're also without some of our main players who are out injured at the moment." QPR
Watford Official Site - MACKAY: 'THE BOYS WERE SURGICAL'
AFTER a morale boosting 3-0 win over Queens Park Rangers at Vicarage Road today, caretaker boss Malky Mackay commended the belief and 'surgical' finishing in front of goal which destroyed the visitors.
The R's had no reply as Mackay's troops stormed to a three goal half-time lead and they never looked like overturning things after the interval.
Tommy Smith, creative and industrious throughout, opening the scoring from the spot before Darren Ward scored against his former club and the in-form Lee Williamson finished the display.
Mackay said: "The confidence grew as the game went on, we had a game plan and we stuck to it.
"Once we got the break I thought the boys were surgical and went at them and the boys turned on the pressure and got their just rewards.
"The last couple of weeks we've been looking for a result like that and playing like that without the final cutting edge."
Crucially today the Hornets kept a much needed clean sheet and although goals win games the door needed shutting on the Watford goal after some leaky times in recent spells.
Mackay said he'd been drumming team shape and the way his side should defend into his men.
He added: "The fact that we then defend the way we did and be resilient I think speaks volumes for the team.
"I've been asking them every day in training to play as a team, so we move over the park together as a unit.
"If that is the case you've always got two or three Watford jerseys around the ball - the minute we win it back we can attack teams and we know we can hurt them.
"But at the same time we've got to lock in at the back and I thought we were magnificent at that today."
Mackay's 'express yourself' philosophy has clearly rubbed off on his men and they looked to enjoy turning on the style at Vicarage Road.
"I asked them to believe in themselves and be the players that I know they can be" said the ex-West Ham defender.
"We've lost goals through silly errors this season, we've showed that we can match anyone and go beyond but we've got to do that consistently and do it every week.
"I know they're good footballers - they've got to believe they're good footballers."
Rookie 'keeper Scott Loach was rarely tested by the lackluster west Londoners and it was a big decision from the Scotsman to include him instead of Richard Lee.
He commented: "I just felt that Scott was ready - he played for the reserves on Tuesday and played very well.
"Off the back of the West Ham game when he played magnificently I thought the time was right for him to come back in at the moment.
- "Alec Chamberlain takes his goalkeepers every day and they've got a great bond.
"It's all credit to Richard Lee who is on the bench today that he's rooting for Scott to do well and he's a good influence on him."
The caretaker also had words of praise for his two central midfield men, adding: "The fact that Lee [Williamson] has been given licence to go forward, young Ross Jenkins sits in there and allows him to do that and gives him that freedom - that's great credit to him.
"He's 17-years-old and he's come in with a great temperament and he can break things up and it allows Lee to be a creative influence for the team." Watford
Daily Mail - Sousa given tough first outing
- Paulo Sousa was given a harsh introduction to life as QPR boss as he watched Watford turn around their recent poor form with an impressive 3-0 win.
Tommy Smith's penalty, after a foul by Damion Stewart, gave the hosts the advantage after 26 minutes.
Watford, who were on a five-game losing streak in the league, then extended their lead through Darren Ward's strike eight minutes later, before Lee Williamson added a third just before the break to put them in a commanding position.
In his first match in charge, former Portugal international Sousa oversaw five changes to the starting XI with Emmanuel Ledesma, Mikele Leigertwood and Patrick Agyemang among those returning.
However, former Watford favourite Heidar Helguson did not make the squad after his midweek loan move from Bolton.
Malky Mackay welcomed back Scott Loach from injury as the Watford caretaker looked to push his claims for the vacant manager's position.
Languishing in the bottom three, Watford's confidence was fragile but they grew into the game imposingly.
And they took the lead when Stewart was judged to have pushed Tamas Priskin in the box.
In spite of QPR protests, the referee pointed to the spot and Smith sent the keeper the wrong way to give Watford the lead.
Then after 34 minutes Ward extended Watford's advantage when he converted Jon Harley's cross.
QPR's best chance fell to the returning Agyemang but he failed to convert Hogan Ephraim's free-kick when there was only the goalkeeper to beat.
And then to add to Sousa's woes, Williamson fired home to leave QPR reeling. Mail
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- QPR helped Watford end their run of five consecutive Championship losses. With Hall's sending off, he's definitely missing the Crystal game. And next QPR face Charlton - who yesterday axed their manager! New Manager Syndrome?
- The Times/Nick Townsend - Watford inflict misery on QPR: Watford 3 QPR 0
- It is doubtful whether Paulo Sousa had this in mind for his debut as a club manager. (Or, as QPR prefer to refer to their men in charge, first-team coach.) The former Portugal international midfielder’s reaction to his appointment at Loftus Road had apparently been: “I always wanted to work for a big club.”
- Perhaps he believed that with its proximity to Chelsea, managed by the former Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari - under whom he was assistant with the national side for five years - he would discover a similar preponderance of quality, or at least potential.
- Despite his declaration afterwards that “I believe in these players and that results will come”, this will have injected reality. Rangers made Watford, still in relegation peril, look like assured promotion challengers, not a side that have been on a losing run of five league defeats. If Malky Mackay, a candidate for Watford manager, required a boost to his CV, the visitors couldn’t have been more compliant on an afternoon of misery.
- Normally, players turn it on for the new boss. Here barely one of them advertised their claim to a shirt next week.
- However, QPR, already well off the promotion pace, insist they are a big-club-in-waiting - once their potential is realised by their monied owners, Flavio Briatore and his associates, in conjunction with the right man in charge.
- According to Briatore, he consulted Scolari and Jose Mourinho before confirming the appointment of Sousa. Though he is Rangers’ third “manager” already this season, the new man insisted: “There is no pressure. I’m here for the medium to long term, to build a solid base to go to the Premier League. If you go to the Premier League without that base, of course you go down.”
- Life is no less complex at Watford, who are still deliberating over their own vacancy. Mackay, who was interviewed on Wednesday, admitted: “I’d be delighted to get the job. This helps my case.”
- Watford had the game won by half-time. Tommy Smith, the club’s leading scorer, converted a penalty awarded for a push by Damion Stewart on Tamas Priskin. Darren Ward soon added a second and the impressive Lee Williamson placed it beyond the visitors with a fine drive.
- Rangers’ Fitz Hall was dismissed late on for a foul on Watford substitute Will Hoskins. It could hardly get any worse for their new manager. He can comfort himself with the thought that, under him, things can only get better.
-Star man:Lee Williamson (Watford)
WATFORD:Loach 6, Mariappa 6, Ward 7, DeMerit 7, Doyley 6, McAnuff 7 (Hoskins 78), Williamson 8 (O’Toole 82min), Harley 7, Jenkins 6, Priskin 7, Smith 7.
QPR:Cerny 6, Delaney 6, Stewart 6, Hall 5, Ramage 6, Mahon 5 (Tommasi 45min, 5), Leigertwood 6, Ledesma 6 (Parejo 53min, 5), Ephraim 6, Blackstock 5 (Di Carmine 61min), Agyemang 6
Yellow cards: Watford: Harley QPR: Mahon, Lesdma, StewartRed card: QPR: Hall
Referee:A Penn Attendance:16,201 The Times
INDEPENDENT/Conrad Leach - Sousa's new boys start on duff note
- Paulo Sousa was not on the touchline for this appallingdisplay by the team he now manages. Having seen what he has taken on at Queens Park Rangers, the former Portuguese international may wish tomaintain his distance.
From winning the European Cup twice, in 1996 and 1997,famously with different clubs, it has come to this. Sousa agreed to take over at the troubled west London club on Wednesday.
Afterwards, however, he didn't try to hide the all-too-obvious truth. Sousa said: "This was a bad performance today. I'm here to change things because things have not been going well."
He then added, somewhat bravely: "There is no pressure on me. I'm here for the mediumto long term, to build a base to get to the Premier League."
It remains to be seen whether he will get the time to jolt this team into life, let alone back to the top division. After all, his employer, Flavio Briatore, has already shown he is a man of little patience – Sousa is the third manager since the Italian bought into the club.
Watford had lost five League games in a row, but QPR somehow made the Hornets looklike a top-three side in the Championship, not a bottom- three one, which was where they started the day.
With both sides lookingwitless, the hosts were awardeda penalty after 26 minutes for a push, and Tommy Smith hit the spot-kick low to Radek Cerny's left.
Seven minutes later Watford, with caretaker-manager Malky Mackay in charge at home for the first time, doubled their lead. Jon Harley passed to Darren Ward, who scored from 10 yards. Mackay was interviewed last Wednesday for the permanent position, and said: "I'd be delighted to get the job."
For Sousa, whose European Cup wins were with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, the size of the task ahead became even clearer when Smith set up Lee Williamson for the third in the last minute of the first half. Fitz Hall's dismissal with 10 minutes left, for a pointless hack on the substitute Will Hoskins, at least gave Sousa one less selection problem for next week. Independent
TELEGRAPH/Andrew Warshaw - Paulo Sousa watches Queens Park Rangers have pockets picked by Watford
- In one sense, Watford and Queens Park Rangers are similar. Both are underachievers, troubled by off-the-field turbulence and criticised by disgruntled fans. In another they could not be more different: one of them up for sale with no sign of fresh investment, the other bankrolled by some of the game's richest investors. All of which made for an intriguing London derby.
- Having seen Elton John, their life president and most high-profile icon, resign and Adie Boothroyd removed as manager, Watford were in dire need of a tonic after five straight league defeats that had seen them plummet into the bottom three. But so were Rangers, of whom great things were anticipated in the summer but who have just appointed their sixth manager in two years amid constant allegations that new owner Flavio Briatore is adopting something of a dictatorial role by meddling in team affairs.
- The latest manager, former Portugal international Paolo Sousa, only met the players on Thursday, so left tactics to Gareth Ainsworth, back as player-coach after a brief stint as caretaker. While Briatore took his seat in the directors box, Sousa watched the game from just behind the dugout and must have wondered what on earth he has taken on, as his team were sunk by half-time and played the last 10 minutes one short after Fitz Hall was shown a straight red card for a reckless lunge.
- One man's meat, of course, is another's poison. Watford are on the verge of appointing the latest manager of their own and Malky Mackay, in temporary control, will have done his case no harm.
- Tommy Smith sent Radek Cerny the wrong way with a penalty to open the score after a push by Damion Stewart and eight minutes later Darren Ward doubled the lead. Dexter Blackstock missed a chance to reduce the deficit before Smith delivered a terrific ball after a great run and Lee Williamson turned it in.
- Sousa was philosophical, saying: "Today was bad, but I have only been here two days and cannot change everything overnight. I am here on a mid to long-term project to build a solid base to get us to the Premier League."
Where have we heard that before? Telegraph
QPR Official Site - TIME FOR CHANGE
QPR's 3-0 defeat to Watford proved food for thought for new Manager Paulo Sousa, as the R's gaffer left Gareth Ainsworth in charge of First Team affairs at Vicarage Road.
Goals from Tommy Smith, Darren Ward and Lee Williamson gave the Hornets victory, yet despite the R's disappointing display, Sousa chose to look to the future.
"It was a bad performance, but I've been here for just two days," he told wwww.qpr.co.uk
"I watched from the stands today and it put some ideas in my head and I know I must change things.
"It's not easy to work on change when you've got two games a week, because you need to rest. But I believe in my own ability to make these changes and I'm confident we will make them."
Sousa was angered at the award of the Watford spot-kick, which saw Mikele Leigertwood penalised for an apparent push in the Rangers penalty box.
He commented: "I saw the same thing going on in the Watford box, on both Dexter and Patrick.
"But that's football isn't it and sometimes you get the decisions and other times you don't."
Sousa also touched upon Fitz Hall's late dismissal, commenting: "I thought the referee could have been more sweet!
"We were 3-0 down and the game was over, but he should have protected our player more.
"It's disappointing, because we'll lose Fitz now and we're also without some of our main players who are out injured at the moment." QPR
Watford Official Site - MACKAY: 'THE BOYS WERE SURGICAL'
AFTER a morale boosting 3-0 win over Queens Park Rangers at Vicarage Road today, caretaker boss Malky Mackay commended the belief and 'surgical' finishing in front of goal which destroyed the visitors.
The R's had no reply as Mackay's troops stormed to a three goal half-time lead and they never looked like overturning things after the interval.
Tommy Smith, creative and industrious throughout, opening the scoring from the spot before Darren Ward scored against his former club and the in-form Lee Williamson finished the display.
Mackay said: "The confidence grew as the game went on, we had a game plan and we stuck to it.
"Once we got the break I thought the boys were surgical and went at them and the boys turned on the pressure and got their just rewards.
"The last couple of weeks we've been looking for a result like that and playing like that without the final cutting edge."
Crucially today the Hornets kept a much needed clean sheet and although goals win games the door needed shutting on the Watford goal after some leaky times in recent spells.
Mackay said he'd been drumming team shape and the way his side should defend into his men.
He added: "The fact that we then defend the way we did and be resilient I think speaks volumes for the team.
"I've been asking them every day in training to play as a team, so we move over the park together as a unit.
"If that is the case you've always got two or three Watford jerseys around the ball - the minute we win it back we can attack teams and we know we can hurt them.
"But at the same time we've got to lock in at the back and I thought we were magnificent at that today."
Mackay's 'express yourself' philosophy has clearly rubbed off on his men and they looked to enjoy turning on the style at Vicarage Road.
"I asked them to believe in themselves and be the players that I know they can be" said the ex-West Ham defender.
"We've lost goals through silly errors this season, we've showed that we can match anyone and go beyond but we've got to do that consistently and do it every week.
"I know they're good footballers - they've got to believe they're good footballers."
Rookie 'keeper Scott Loach was rarely tested by the lackluster west Londoners and it was a big decision from the Scotsman to include him instead of Richard Lee.
He commented: "I just felt that Scott was ready - he played for the reserves on Tuesday and played very well.
"Off the back of the West Ham game when he played magnificently I thought the time was right for him to come back in at the moment.
- "Alec Chamberlain takes his goalkeepers every day and they've got a great bond.
"It's all credit to Richard Lee who is on the bench today that he's rooting for Scott to do well and he's a good influence on him."
The caretaker also had words of praise for his two central midfield men, adding: "The fact that Lee [Williamson] has been given licence to go forward, young Ross Jenkins sits in there and allows him to do that and gives him that freedom - that's great credit to him.
"He's 17-years-old and he's come in with a great temperament and he can break things up and it allows Lee to be a creative influence for the team." Watford
Daily Mail - Sousa given tough first outing
- Paulo Sousa was given a harsh introduction to life as QPR boss as he watched Watford turn around their recent poor form with an impressive 3-0 win.
Tommy Smith's penalty, after a foul by Damion Stewart, gave the hosts the advantage after 26 minutes.
Watford, who were on a five-game losing streak in the league, then extended their lead through Darren Ward's strike eight minutes later, before Lee Williamson added a third just before the break to put them in a commanding position.
In his first match in charge, former Portugal international Sousa oversaw five changes to the starting XI with Emmanuel Ledesma, Mikele Leigertwood and Patrick Agyemang among those returning.
However, former Watford favourite Heidar Helguson did not make the squad after his midweek loan move from Bolton.
Malky Mackay welcomed back Scott Loach from injury as the Watford caretaker looked to push his claims for the vacant manager's position.
Languishing in the bottom three, Watford's confidence was fragile but they grew into the game imposingly.
And they took the lead when Stewart was judged to have pushed Tamas Priskin in the box.
In spite of QPR protests, the referee pointed to the spot and Smith sent the keeper the wrong way to give Watford the lead.
Then after 34 minutes Ward extended Watford's advantage when he converted Jon Harley's cross.
QPR's best chance fell to the returning Agyemang but he failed to convert Hogan Ephraim's free-kick when there was only the goalkeeper to beat.
And then to add to Sousa's woes, Williamson fired home to leave QPR reeling. Mail
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Helguson's Move to QPR Off (Back at Bolton)
-
The "crazee" rumour, posted earlier, is apparently fact. The Helguson-to-QPR loan is off. (As reported by numerous posters on various QPR messageboards.) The only thing missing: It's not been announced yet by QPR or Bolton; and it's not yet been reported in the press. [Interestingly the original Bolton announcement seems no longer to be on the site!]
Bolton Fans Know Nothing More...
BURNDEN ACES - CONFUSION OVER HELGUSON LOAN
There are rumours coming out of West London that Heidar Helguson's loan deal with Queens Park Rangers has been cancelled and the player has returned to Bolton.
The Iceland international moved to QPR on Thursday and was expected to be in the squad to face Watford on Saturday afternoon.
Rumours before the game, which QPR lost 3-0, were that the 31-year-old had picked up an injury in training and had returned to the Reebok Stadium.
Neither club have had anything to say on the matter, but should this rumour turn out to be true, we will bring you more news as soon as we get it. Burnden Aces
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
The "crazee" rumour, posted earlier, is apparently fact. The Helguson-to-QPR loan is off. (As reported by numerous posters on various QPR messageboards.) The only thing missing: It's not been announced yet by QPR or Bolton; and it's not yet been reported in the press. [Interestingly the original Bolton announcement seems no longer to be on the site!]
Bolton Fans Know Nothing More...
BURNDEN ACES - CONFUSION OVER HELGUSON LOAN
There are rumours coming out of West London that Heidar Helguson's loan deal with Queens Park Rangers has been cancelled and the player has returned to Bolton.
The Iceland international moved to QPR on Thursday and was expected to be in the squad to face Watford on Saturday afternoon.
Rumours before the game, which QPR lost 3-0, were that the 31-year-old had picked up an injury in training and had returned to the Reebok Stadium.
Neither club have had anything to say on the matter, but should this rumour turn out to be true, we will bring you more news as soon as we get it. Burnden Aces
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Watford Beat QPR
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Three first half goals gave Watford a 3-0 win. Fitz Hall was sent off for QPR. QPR drop to 12th
QPR Official Site: Watfor 3 QPR 0
QPR began their London derby trilogy with a disappointing 3-0 defeat at the hands of a resurgent Watford side.
In a match in which Rangers never got going, goals from Tommy Smith, Darren Ward and Lee Williamson meant the R's went home pointless.
The home side created the lion's share of the chances, with only Hogan Ephraim testing Watford keeper Scott Loach with two efforts comfortably saved by the lanky custodian.
To make matters worse, Fitz Hall was shown a straight red for a foul on Will Hoskins, meaning the visitors ended the match with ten man.
Gareth Ainsworth took charge of the R's at Vicarage Road, as Paulo Sousa looked on from the stands at Vicarage Road.
Having overseen just a couple of training sessions since his appointment on Wednesday lunchtime, the former Portugal number two opted to leave the managerial duties to the R's Player / Coach.
With injury ruling out skipper Martin Rowlands, former Hornet Lee Cook and defender Matthew Connolly, Ainsworth was forced to shuffle his pack for the short trip to Hertfordshire. Radek Cerny started in goal, while Republic of Ireland defender Damien Delaney came in at left back, in a back four which also included Peter Ramage, Hall and Damion Stewart.
The midfield quartet consisted of Emmanuel Ledesma, skipper Gavin Mahon, Mikele Leigertwood and Ephraim, while Patrick Agyemang partnered Dexter Blackstock in attack.
A blistering cold wind swirled around Vicarage Road as Jobi McAnuff had the match's opening attempt on goal. A well rehearsed corner routine involving Tommy Smith allowed the ex-Crystal Palace winger a half chance as he volleyed inches over.
The same two conspired again to tee up Jon Harley but the left winger could only head down into Cerny's arms.
McAnuff had started the match in determined fashion and he fed Williamson after a mazy run. Williamson, who has enjoyed a mini-goal spree in recent weeks, only succeeded in dragging his edge-of-the-box shot wide.
Rangers had found the going tough so far but Agyemang wriggled free down the right and powered in a cross that bounced around the box before striking Blackstock and going wide.
Watford were firmly in the driver's seat and Williamson was found in the box but his left-foot shot was well smothered by Cerny.
However it was Rangers to threaten seconds later as Ephraim tried the spectacular with a stinging 25-yard volley on the turn, after Leigertwood had found him with a lofted pass.
Watford made their pressure tell on 26 minutes as Leigertwood was penalised for a push on Smith in the area. The Watford striker took the resultant spot-kick himself, sending Cerny the wrong way.
Buoyed by the goal, another well-worked corner saw Williamson deliver a fine cross for Ward to head tamely at Cerny.
Ward made no mistake however, from his next chance. When Williamson's free-kick was brilliantly saved by Cerny, the ball was played back into a packed box and the on-loan defender smashed home to hand his side a two-goal lead.
Watford were reminded that the R's still posed a threat seconds later when Blackstock missed a glaring opportunity. Ephraim's decent free-kick sailed over everyone and found the striker lurking at the back post. But, caught between two minds, the R's top scorer could only weakly tap wide from five yards out.
Ephraim sent another set-piece curling over for ex-hornet Mahon to get up well and attack but the midfielder could only nod it wide.
Watford were flying, however, and Williamson added a third on the stroke of halftime. Smith robbed the usually reliable Leigertwood in the left back area and pulled the ball back for the ex-Rotherham man to fire a shot under Cerny.
With that, a shell-shocked Rangers retreated to the changing room for halftime.
The second half opened with the impressive Rangers following in full voice, urging a better performance from their team.
They didn't get it, as Watford picked up where they left off. Williamson's inswinging free-kick was punched clear by Cerny only for the ball to be hooked back goalward. Delaney tried to flick the ball over the bar but his header, however, required a full stretch save from Cerny to keep out.
Wave after wave of Watford pressure was beginning to tell. Tamas Priskin was the latest player to have a crack at extending the score. Lloyd Doyley's long pass forward was chested into the Hungarian's path by Smith, and he lashed a fine swerving effort that whistled over Cerny's crossbar.
Ainsworth had, by this time, introduced Damiano Tommasi, Samuel Di Carmine and Daniel Parejo by this time, but none of the three could swing the tide back in the R's favour.
In a rare foray forward, Ephraim shot straight at home keeper Loach. It was only the R's second shot on target.
To add insult to injury, the R's were reduced to ten man six minutes before full time, as Hall's high tackle on Watford substitute Will Hoskins saw him receive a straight red card.
The Hornets ran out the remaining minutes and recorded a result few would've expected but one that condemns the R's to two straight defeats.
Watford: Loach, DeMerit, Priskin, McAnuff (Hoskins 82), Doyley, Williamson (O'Toole 84), Harley, Smith, Mariappa, Ward, Jenkins.
Subs: Lee, Bromby, Robinson, O'Toole.
Scorers: Smith (pen 26), Ward (34), Willaimson (45)
Bookings: Harley (36)
Red Cards:
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon (Tommasi 46), Hall, Leigertwood, Blackstock (Di Carmine 63), Agyemang, Ramage, Ledesma (Parejo 53), Ephraim.
Subs: Cole, Gorkss.
Scorers:
Bookings: Mahon (33), Ledesma (51), Stewart (56)
Red Cards: Hall (81)
Referee: Mr A M Penn
Attendance: 16,201 (2,314) QPR
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Three first half goals gave Watford a 3-0 win. Fitz Hall was sent off for QPR. QPR drop to 12th
QPR Official Site: Watfor 3 QPR 0
QPR began their London derby trilogy with a disappointing 3-0 defeat at the hands of a resurgent Watford side.
In a match in which Rangers never got going, goals from Tommy Smith, Darren Ward and Lee Williamson meant the R's went home pointless.
The home side created the lion's share of the chances, with only Hogan Ephraim testing Watford keeper Scott Loach with two efforts comfortably saved by the lanky custodian.
To make matters worse, Fitz Hall was shown a straight red for a foul on Will Hoskins, meaning the visitors ended the match with ten man.
Gareth Ainsworth took charge of the R's at Vicarage Road, as Paulo Sousa looked on from the stands at Vicarage Road.
Having overseen just a couple of training sessions since his appointment on Wednesday lunchtime, the former Portugal number two opted to leave the managerial duties to the R's Player / Coach.
With injury ruling out skipper Martin Rowlands, former Hornet Lee Cook and defender Matthew Connolly, Ainsworth was forced to shuffle his pack for the short trip to Hertfordshire. Radek Cerny started in goal, while Republic of Ireland defender Damien Delaney came in at left back, in a back four which also included Peter Ramage, Hall and Damion Stewart.
The midfield quartet consisted of Emmanuel Ledesma, skipper Gavin Mahon, Mikele Leigertwood and Ephraim, while Patrick Agyemang partnered Dexter Blackstock in attack.
A blistering cold wind swirled around Vicarage Road as Jobi McAnuff had the match's opening attempt on goal. A well rehearsed corner routine involving Tommy Smith allowed the ex-Crystal Palace winger a half chance as he volleyed inches over.
The same two conspired again to tee up Jon Harley but the left winger could only head down into Cerny's arms.
McAnuff had started the match in determined fashion and he fed Williamson after a mazy run. Williamson, who has enjoyed a mini-goal spree in recent weeks, only succeeded in dragging his edge-of-the-box shot wide.
Rangers had found the going tough so far but Agyemang wriggled free down the right and powered in a cross that bounced around the box before striking Blackstock and going wide.
Watford were firmly in the driver's seat and Williamson was found in the box but his left-foot shot was well smothered by Cerny.
However it was Rangers to threaten seconds later as Ephraim tried the spectacular with a stinging 25-yard volley on the turn, after Leigertwood had found him with a lofted pass.
Watford made their pressure tell on 26 minutes as Leigertwood was penalised for a push on Smith in the area. The Watford striker took the resultant spot-kick himself, sending Cerny the wrong way.
Buoyed by the goal, another well-worked corner saw Williamson deliver a fine cross for Ward to head tamely at Cerny.
Ward made no mistake however, from his next chance. When Williamson's free-kick was brilliantly saved by Cerny, the ball was played back into a packed box and the on-loan defender smashed home to hand his side a two-goal lead.
Watford were reminded that the R's still posed a threat seconds later when Blackstock missed a glaring opportunity. Ephraim's decent free-kick sailed over everyone and found the striker lurking at the back post. But, caught between two minds, the R's top scorer could only weakly tap wide from five yards out.
Ephraim sent another set-piece curling over for ex-hornet Mahon to get up well and attack but the midfielder could only nod it wide.
Watford were flying, however, and Williamson added a third on the stroke of halftime. Smith robbed the usually reliable Leigertwood in the left back area and pulled the ball back for the ex-Rotherham man to fire a shot under Cerny.
With that, a shell-shocked Rangers retreated to the changing room for halftime.
The second half opened with the impressive Rangers following in full voice, urging a better performance from their team.
They didn't get it, as Watford picked up where they left off. Williamson's inswinging free-kick was punched clear by Cerny only for the ball to be hooked back goalward. Delaney tried to flick the ball over the bar but his header, however, required a full stretch save from Cerny to keep out.
Wave after wave of Watford pressure was beginning to tell. Tamas Priskin was the latest player to have a crack at extending the score. Lloyd Doyley's long pass forward was chested into the Hungarian's path by Smith, and he lashed a fine swerving effort that whistled over Cerny's crossbar.
Ainsworth had, by this time, introduced Damiano Tommasi, Samuel Di Carmine and Daniel Parejo by this time, but none of the three could swing the tide back in the R's favour.
In a rare foray forward, Ephraim shot straight at home keeper Loach. It was only the R's second shot on target.
To add insult to injury, the R's were reduced to ten man six minutes before full time, as Hall's high tackle on Watford substitute Will Hoskins saw him receive a straight red card.
The Hornets ran out the remaining minutes and recorded a result few would've expected but one that condemns the R's to two straight defeats.
Watford: Loach, DeMerit, Priskin, McAnuff (Hoskins 82), Doyley, Williamson (O'Toole 84), Harley, Smith, Mariappa, Ward, Jenkins.
Subs: Lee, Bromby, Robinson, O'Toole.
Scorers: Smith (pen 26), Ward (34), Willaimson (45)
Bookings: Harley (36)
Red Cards:
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon (Tommasi 46), Hall, Leigertwood, Blackstock (Di Carmine 63), Agyemang, Ramage, Ledesma (Parejo 53), Ephraim.
Subs: Cole, Gorkss.
Scorers:
Bookings: Mahon (33), Ledesma (51), Stewart (56)
Red Cards: Hall (81)
Referee: Mr A M Penn
Attendance: 16,201 (2,314) QPR
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Helguson Returned to Bolton? (Messageboard Rumour) ....Half Time: QPR Being Crushed 3-0 by Watford
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And that's it...!
Heidar Helguson is not in the team or on the bench today. The norm would be to assume he's injured or the manager(s) wanted to bring in slowly - even though with injuries, that would be strange. No reason given for his absence on the QPR Official Site Team Announcement. Two or three posters on the boards are saying he's returned to Bolton. But nothing on Bolton's Official Site (or QPR's official site) or from Bolton posters. (And he's listed as onloan to QPR on the Bolton and QPR site) So it may just be board rumour. A classic "Stay Tuned!"
Half Time Match Report
Northampton Chronicle - New QPR boss suffers nightmare start at Watford
Paulo Sousa was given a harsh introduction to life as QPR boss as he watched Watford establish a 3-0 half-time lead in their Championship clash at Vicarage Road.
Tommy Smith's penalty, after a foul by Damion Stewart, gave the hosts the advantage after 24 minutes.
Watford, who were on a five-game losing streak in the league, then extended their lead through Darren Ward's strike.
Lee Williamson added a third just before the break to put them in a commanding position.
In his first match in charge, former Portugal international Sousa oversaw five changes to the starting XI with Emmanuel Ledesma, Mikele Leigertwood and Patrick Agyemang among those returning.
However, former Watford favourite Heidar Helguson did not make the squad after his midweek loan move from Bolton.
Watford: Loach, Mariappa, Ward, DeMerit, Doyley, McAnuff, Williamson, Harley, Jenkins, Priskin, Smith. Subs: Lee, Bromby, Robinson, Hoskins, O'Toole.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Hall, Ramage, Mahon, Leigertwood, Ledesma, Ephraim, Blackstock, Agyemang. Subs: Cole, Parejo, Gorkss, Tommasi, Di Carmine. Northampton Chronicle
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And that's it...!
Heidar Helguson is not in the team or on the bench today. The norm would be to assume he's injured or the manager(s) wanted to bring in slowly - even though with injuries, that would be strange. No reason given for his absence on the QPR Official Site Team Announcement. Two or three posters on the boards are saying he's returned to Bolton. But nothing on Bolton's Official Site (or QPR's official site) or from Bolton posters. (And he's listed as onloan to QPR on the Bolton and QPR site) So it may just be board rumour. A classic "Stay Tuned!"
Half Time Match Report
Northampton Chronicle - New QPR boss suffers nightmare start at Watford
Paulo Sousa was given a harsh introduction to life as QPR boss as he watched Watford establish a 3-0 half-time lead in their Championship clash at Vicarage Road.
Tommy Smith's penalty, after a foul by Damion Stewart, gave the hosts the advantage after 24 minutes.
Watford, who were on a five-game losing streak in the league, then extended their lead through Darren Ward's strike.
Lee Williamson added a third just before the break to put them in a commanding position.
In his first match in charge, former Portugal international Sousa oversaw five changes to the starting XI with Emmanuel Ledesma, Mikele Leigertwood and Patrick Agyemang among those returning.
However, former Watford favourite Heidar Helguson did not make the squad after his midweek loan move from Bolton.
Watford: Loach, Mariappa, Ward, DeMerit, Doyley, McAnuff, Williamson, Harley, Jenkins, Priskin, Smith. Subs: Lee, Bromby, Robinson, Hoskins, O'Toole.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Hall, Ramage, Mahon, Leigertwood, Ledesma, Ephraim, Blackstock, Agyemang. Subs: Cole, Parejo, Gorkss, Tommasi, Di Carmine. Northampton Chronicle
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Teams: Watford vs QPR (and Mail Mockery)
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Daily Mail: "...QPR's new boss Paulo Sousa will be making his mark at Watford (as long as Flavio Briatore says that's OK)..." Mail
-Ainsworth in charge. Sousa in the Stand watching. No Cook. No Rowlands. No Connolly. And no Helguson!
TEAMS:
QPR - Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Hall, Ramage, Mahon, Leigertwood, Blackstock, Agyemang, Ledesma, Ephraim - Subs: Cole, Gorkss, Parejo, Tommassi, Di Carmine.
Watford: Watford: Loach, DeMerit, Priskin, McAnuff, Doyley, Williamson, Harley, Smith, Mariappa, Ward, Jenkins. Subs: Lee, Bromby, Robinson, Hoskins, O'Toole.
- Today's Teams
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard.
Daily Mail: "...QPR's new boss Paulo Sousa will be making his mark at Watford (as long as Flavio Briatore says that's OK)..." Mail
-Ainsworth in charge. Sousa in the Stand watching. No Cook. No Rowlands. No Connolly. And no Helguson!
TEAMS:
QPR - Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Hall, Ramage, Mahon, Leigertwood, Blackstock, Agyemang, Ledesma, Ephraim - Subs: Cole, Gorkss, Parejo, Tommassi, Di Carmine.
Watford: Watford: Loach, DeMerit, Priskin, McAnuff, Doyley, Williamson, Harley, Smith, Mariappa, Ward, Jenkins. Subs: Lee, Bromby, Robinson, Hoskins, O'Toole.
- Today's Teams
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Balanta's Swagger: "Rangers is an exciting place to be at the moment and I hope coming here is a stepping stone to the QPR first team"...Shittu Speaks
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Bucks Free Press/Alan Fedlberg 0 Balanta's swagger brings fantasy football to Blues
- Angelo Balanta had not played for a month before last Saturday, but it hardly showed as he dazzled Adams Park with a 45-minute exhibition that had fans and coaches alike licking their lips.
The Colombian-born 19-year-old last played a first team match on October 25, when he appeared for the final four minutes of QPR’s goalless draw at Reading.
But if there was ring-rustiness in his Adams Park debut, the rest of League Two should beware Balanta at full speed.
He said: “Peter Taylor told me to go out and express myself and it went well. I thought I played alright.
“It was good to get 45 minutes after such a long time, it was a good test for me and I didn’t feel too bad at the end.”
And now Balanta wants 90 minutes as he looks to really kick-off his two-month loan spell.
He said: “I’ve been training hard and I’m ready to go. I think I’m ready for 90 minutes now.” Securing Balanta, who has been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the Blues squad, is another huge coup for Blues boss Taylor.
Balanta is already on England’s radar having been on standby for the U19s, and eight first team appearances this season for a club that can afford almost anyone suggests people in high places believe he has a future at the very highest level.
He said: “Rangers is an exciting place to be at the moment and I hope coming here is a stepping stone to the QPR first team.
“But I need more experience so when I heard Wanderers were interested I thought, ‘why not’.
“They are second and unbeaten so I knew they were a good club, and now I’m here I want to make an impact quickly.”
He certainly did that on Saturday, setting up Lewis Hunt’s goal in the 1-0 win over Brentford and going close to a second himself.
He said: “I pride myself on scoring goals and thought I could have done better.
“I was crowded out so I wanted to get my shot away. I wouldn’t say expected to score that chance, but I would have liked to.
“Hopefully there will be a few goals to come though.” Bucks Free Press
The Bolton News/Liam Chronnell -Shittu determined to prove his worth
- DANNY Shittu has spent all of his life proving people wrong and he’s happy to do the same again.
The big defender has struggled to break into Wanderers’ starting line-up since joining from Watford in August.
But the Nigerian international, who turned down a loan move to Championship club Derby last week, is determined to show manager Gary Megson he was right to put his faith in him.
“I don’t want to go out on loan – I want to stay here and play for Bolton,” said the 28-year-old.
“I knew when I came here it wouldn’t be easy and I could’ve gone to other Championship clubs, but I want to prove myself in the Premiership.
“I’m not looking at going anywhere. I just want to get into the team and do well.
“I’m just going to work hard in training and wait for my opportunity and, when it comes, I want to be able to take it.
“There’s been times in my life where I’ve had to prove myself to people and this is just another one.”
Shittu, who moved to England aged seven and only decided he wanted to be a footballer at 18, has spent most of his career convincing doubters he had what it takes to make it to the Premier League.
From Bow, a deprived part of East London and one of seven brothers and sisters, a teenage Shittu was struggling in Carshalton youth team in the Rymans League when he embarked on a long and difficult path to the top.
After failed trials at Leyton Orient and Norwich, where he was told he would never make it as a footballer, he wrote to all 92 clubs begging for a chance. Only three replied and they all said no.
But, displaying the kind of tenacity and unflinching belief in his own ability that has enabled him to get where he is today, the centre-half refused to give up, opting instead to contact all the clubs who had turned him down.
His first call was to Charlton, one of the three teams who had at least had the courtesy to refuse him in writing, and, incredibly, they agreed to let him come down for a trial.
“I was due to start a computer studies degree at university in a month but I just thought ‘I can’t work in an office all my life – I’m going to be a footballer’,” explained Shittu, who was talking to youngsters as part of a Prince’s Trust development programme, held in connection with the Premier League’s Creating Chances initiative.
“When I phoned Charlton, I somehow got through to the guy who was in charge of their academy and I was on for about 20 minutes trying to convince him I was good enough.
“Just as I was about to give up, he said I could come down for a one-week trial – that lasted six weeks!
“Week after week they just say ‘come in next week, come in next week’, and I thought I was getting nowhere.
“Then after six weeks they offered me a one-year contract. I’d done it, but that was just the start because I then had to prove I was worth a longer one.”
It completed a remarkable rags to riches journey. He added: “I only started playing football seriously at 18 and a lot of people told me I wouldn’t do it but I always believed in myself.
“My friends used to laugh at me but I’ve had the last laugh because now they’re the ones phoning me asking for tickets.
“The people I grew up with got into bad things and some of my friends have gone to prison – it could have easily been me if I had given up.
“People said I wasn’t good enough to be a professional footballer but now I play in the Premiership and for Nigeria.”
- After Charlton, Shittu, who was close to signing for Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers over the summer, had spells at Blackpool and Queens Park Rangers before, in 2002, joining Watford, where he briefly tasted life in the Premiership.
- Last season, he was selected in the PFA Championship team of the year and, despite a less than auspicious start to life at Wanderers – his debut came in the humiliating Carling Cup exit at the hands of lowly Northampton and he has made only three more appearances since – he is eager to get another opportunity to prove he can establish himself in Megson’s plans.
- “I’ve signed for three years and I’m not going anywhere,” he said. “I believe I’m good enough to get into the team and I want to prove it when I get the opportunity.”
- One thing is for certain, if he does not make his mark at the Reebok, it will not be for a want of trying. The Bolton News
[For additional articles of interest, and for viewpoints, visit the QPR Report Messageboard.]
Bucks Free Press/Alan Fedlberg 0 Balanta's swagger brings fantasy football to Blues
- Angelo Balanta had not played for a month before last Saturday, but it hardly showed as he dazzled Adams Park with a 45-minute exhibition that had fans and coaches alike licking their lips.
The Colombian-born 19-year-old last played a first team match on October 25, when he appeared for the final four minutes of QPR’s goalless draw at Reading.
But if there was ring-rustiness in his Adams Park debut, the rest of League Two should beware Balanta at full speed.
He said: “Peter Taylor told me to go out and express myself and it went well. I thought I played alright.
“It was good to get 45 minutes after such a long time, it was a good test for me and I didn’t feel too bad at the end.”
And now Balanta wants 90 minutes as he looks to really kick-off his two-month loan spell.
He said: “I’ve been training hard and I’m ready to go. I think I’m ready for 90 minutes now.” Securing Balanta, who has been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the Blues squad, is another huge coup for Blues boss Taylor.
Balanta is already on England’s radar having been on standby for the U19s, and eight first team appearances this season for a club that can afford almost anyone suggests people in high places believe he has a future at the very highest level.
He said: “Rangers is an exciting place to be at the moment and I hope coming here is a stepping stone to the QPR first team.
“But I need more experience so when I heard Wanderers were interested I thought, ‘why not’.
“They are second and unbeaten so I knew they were a good club, and now I’m here I want to make an impact quickly.”
He certainly did that on Saturday, setting up Lewis Hunt’s goal in the 1-0 win over Brentford and going close to a second himself.
He said: “I pride myself on scoring goals and thought I could have done better.
“I was crowded out so I wanted to get my shot away. I wouldn’t say expected to score that chance, but I would have liked to.
“Hopefully there will be a few goals to come though.” Bucks Free Press
The Bolton News/Liam Chronnell -Shittu determined to prove his worth
- DANNY Shittu has spent all of his life proving people wrong and he’s happy to do the same again.
The big defender has struggled to break into Wanderers’ starting line-up since joining from Watford in August.
But the Nigerian international, who turned down a loan move to Championship club Derby last week, is determined to show manager Gary Megson he was right to put his faith in him.
“I don’t want to go out on loan – I want to stay here and play for Bolton,” said the 28-year-old.
“I knew when I came here it wouldn’t be easy and I could’ve gone to other Championship clubs, but I want to prove myself in the Premiership.
“I’m not looking at going anywhere. I just want to get into the team and do well.
“I’m just going to work hard in training and wait for my opportunity and, when it comes, I want to be able to take it.
“There’s been times in my life where I’ve had to prove myself to people and this is just another one.”
Shittu, who moved to England aged seven and only decided he wanted to be a footballer at 18, has spent most of his career convincing doubters he had what it takes to make it to the Premier League.
From Bow, a deprived part of East London and one of seven brothers and sisters, a teenage Shittu was struggling in Carshalton youth team in the Rymans League when he embarked on a long and difficult path to the top.
After failed trials at Leyton Orient and Norwich, where he was told he would never make it as a footballer, he wrote to all 92 clubs begging for a chance. Only three replied and they all said no.
But, displaying the kind of tenacity and unflinching belief in his own ability that has enabled him to get where he is today, the centre-half refused to give up, opting instead to contact all the clubs who had turned him down.
His first call was to Charlton, one of the three teams who had at least had the courtesy to refuse him in writing, and, incredibly, they agreed to let him come down for a trial.
“I was due to start a computer studies degree at university in a month but I just thought ‘I can’t work in an office all my life – I’m going to be a footballer’,” explained Shittu, who was talking to youngsters as part of a Prince’s Trust development programme, held in connection with the Premier League’s Creating Chances initiative.
“When I phoned Charlton, I somehow got through to the guy who was in charge of their academy and I was on for about 20 minutes trying to convince him I was good enough.
“Just as I was about to give up, he said I could come down for a one-week trial – that lasted six weeks!
“Week after week they just say ‘come in next week, come in next week’, and I thought I was getting nowhere.
“Then after six weeks they offered me a one-year contract. I’d done it, but that was just the start because I then had to prove I was worth a longer one.”
It completed a remarkable rags to riches journey. He added: “I only started playing football seriously at 18 and a lot of people told me I wouldn’t do it but I always believed in myself.
“My friends used to laugh at me but I’ve had the last laugh because now they’re the ones phoning me asking for tickets.
“The people I grew up with got into bad things and some of my friends have gone to prison – it could have easily been me if I had given up.
“People said I wasn’t good enough to be a professional footballer but now I play in the Premiership and for Nigeria.”
- After Charlton, Shittu, who was close to signing for Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers over the summer, had spells at Blackpool and Queens Park Rangers before, in 2002, joining Watford, where he briefly tasted life in the Premiership.
- Last season, he was selected in the PFA Championship team of the year and, despite a less than auspicious start to life at Wanderers – his debut came in the humiliating Carling Cup exit at the hands of lowly Northampton and he has made only three more appearances since – he is eager to get another opportunity to prove he can establish himself in Megson’s plans.
- “I’ve signed for three years and I’m not going anywhere,” he said. “I believe I’m good enough to get into the team and I want to prove it when I get the opportunity.”
- One thing is for certain, if he does not make his mark at the Reebok, it will not be for a want of trying. The Bolton News
[For additional articles of interest, and for viewpoints, visit the QPR Report Messageboard.]
Will Sousa Be Given Time?...Warnock on Briatore, Sousa and QPR...Mahon's Return....Lee Camp Excelling...Richard Langley Gets Chance
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[As always, visit the QPR Report Messageboardfor additional articles and for views:---- Financial Meltdown Hits the Premier League ----- Six Great Football Injustices ---- Profile of a Successful Championship Manager------ Reminder: Loan Transfer Window is about to close!
Huw Turbervill The Telegraph - Will Paulo Souza be given the time to make QPR 'project' work?
- So another bright new dawn at Queens Park Rangers, with new manager Paulo Souza declaring: "It is an honour to be part of this project."
- Owner Flavio Briatore also seems to think he has finally got the right man, after Luigi De Canio, Iain Dowie and stand-in manager Gareth Ainsworth's short-lived tenures. Briatore, who arrived at Loftus Road in August 2007, said: "Paulo has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach."
- But before anyone starts looking too far ahead, they might like to reflect on some of the tidings that were expressed at similar junctures in the Briatore era.
- Like when De Canio arrived, replacing Mick Harford, the interim boss who had filled the sacked John Gregory's shoes. "De Canio is fully aware of the high standards and objectives that the new management has set for the future of the club," said chairman Gianni Paladini. "He is ready and eager to take up the challenge."
- De Canio was an impressive, charming and open figure. "I am very excited at this fantastic opportunity," he said. "It will be an honour." No one knows if he returned to Italy by choice in the summer, but I, for one, would like to have seen him continue his good work - they were playing attractive football and he would surely have taken them to the play-offs at least.
- For whatever reason, he went back to Italy, and Iain Dowie was his surprise replacement. A kind of 'back-to-basics, no-thrills' choice. "I'm privileged to have been given the opportunity under the new ownership to return to the club where I served my managerial apprenticeship," said Dowie. "This is a very exciting long-term project."
- Unfortunately it was not a long-term project for him. From the off there were stories of behind-the-scenes rows, and he lasted only 15 games.
- Ainsworth was then given his chance, but despite hints from Briatore that he would like to have appointed him permanently, defeats to Ipswich and Burnley were apparently unpalatable, so they have opted for Souza, the former Portugal midfielder, on a two-and-half-year deal.
- Sousa said: "It is an honour to be part of this project. I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management. I believe in playing positive, attacking football and am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
- There it is, mentioned again ... 'the project'. An exciting trip to the Premier League presumably, but without breaking the bank achieving it. And preferably playing attractive football, to put on a good show for the fans, and for Briatore and his entourage.
- Souza's CV shows he has real pedigree. He won 51 international caps, and played for Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund.
- He was assistant coach of Portugal, working with Luis Felipe Scolari, now at Chelsea. They will not have far to go now if they want to meet for coffee - maybe there is a good cafe on Holland Park roundabout.
- It seems Souza's English is better than De Canio's, which will help, but he needs time to learn about English football, and time is something that, if recent events are anything to go by, he will not be afforded a great deal of.
- He will, however, have the services of striker Heidar Helguson, on loan from Bolton until January, and he will be in the squad for Saturday's trip to his former club Watford.
- QPR were a striker down, as Rowan Vine has undergone more surgery on his fractured leg. QPR have missed his creativity this season. Telegraph
Neil Warnock/Independent4. Flavio Briatore might have met his match in Sousa
- I can't say I know Paolo Sousa, the assistant coach from Portugal's national set-up, who has been hired as QPR's boss. If I'd had the chance to talk to him I might have told him already that life's far more difficult in the Championship than in the Premier League, because the standard of players just isn't as good and it's harder to win things. Sousa's impressed me already, though, and I'm enjoying watching how he goes on.
- He obviously wants to have his say on selections, which was the cause of all the problems for Iain Dowie, his predecessor at Loftus Road. I'm not sure about the level of investment Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone have put in – there aren't the big-name signings you might have expected – but they are not going to have a better chance of going up to the Premier League than they'll get this season. I only see three, maybe four teams, being ahead of all the others and it's there for anyone's taking among many of the rest. Sousa looks like he's going to add to the drama..." Independent
Watford Observer/Anthony Matthews - Mahon relishes return to Watford
Tomorrow's local derby with Queens Park Rangers is set to be an interesting experience for Gavin Mahon.
Not only will the former Watford midfielder be returning to Vicarage Road in a playing capacity for the first time since moving to Loftus Road at the turn of the year, he will also be out to impress a new boss if selected.
Rangers appointed former Portugese international Paulo Sousa as their new first-team coach on Wednesday and Mahon was still digesting the news when he spoke to the Watford Observer only a couple of hours after the appointment was confirmed.
"I remember seeing him as a player," said the 31-year-old of the former two-time Champions League winner with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund. "He was a top player and hopefully he can bring some new ideas and new training methods."
Sousa will certainly be under pressure to get results from the outset. Rangers were one of the pre-season favourites for promotion and although they are handily placed in tenth, three points outside the play-off zone, they have suffered from the bug that affects the majority of Championship teams – a lack of consistency.
"We would like to have had a bit better start but we are in a resonable position," said Mahon, who "is trying hard to get back in the team" after being forced to settle for a place on the bench for the last four league games during Gareth Ainsworth's caretaker spell in charge following the departure of Iain Dowie.
Whether the Hornets' 2004 Player of the Season starts or not tomorrow, he is looking forward to returning to a club for whom he made more than 200 appearances during a near five-year spell.
He said: "I've only been back once for the Hull game in the play-offs, so it will good to go back and see a few old faces.
"I only spoke to Sean Dyche yesterday, I still live in St Albans, so I still bump into a few of the boys. I was there long enough to make a few friends which is good."
However, Mahon, who was a popular target for the Vicarage Road boo-boys, admits he is not sure what reception he will receive from the Watford fans, although he is hoping it will be a favourable one.
"I didn't have the best of starts, but once I got back to full fitness I played over 200 games," the former Vicarage Road skipper reflected.
"They paid £150,000 for me and five years down the line we’d been promoted to the Premiership and played in an FA Cup semi-final.
"I had a few good letters when I left from people who said they appreciated my work. Maybe it [the reception] will be mixed? Hopefully it will be good but you never quite know."
Mahon was controversially deemed surplus to requirements by Aidy Boothroyd in the aftermath of the season-defining home reverse against West Bromwich Albion at the start of last November and his Hornets' career ended on a low, substituted in the 2-1 defeat against Bristol City almost a month later.
That game was played on December 1 when Watford were still top of the Championship. Almost a year later they find themselves third from bottom of the table.
"I said on the record then that I didn't want to go at that time, I wanted to go at the end of the season," said Mahon, whose deal at Vicarage Road would have ended in the summer.
"Some people have said I got out at the right time. Maybe I did, maybe I didn't.
"By all accounts they've been a tiny bit unlucky," he added of Watford's fortunes this season.
"They've been scoring plenty of goals but defensively maybe there's been a lack of concentration at times and they've had some bad luck.
"From the supporters' point of view I don't know what they were expecting because a lot of the big-name players have gone. They have still got players good enough for this division, but that's for the supporters."
Looking ahead to tomorrow's game, do not expect the recent sequence of high-scoring affairs at Vicarage Road to continue if Mahon's light-hearted prediction is anything to go by.
"At the minute we are not scoring too many goals, but we are very strong defensively. Watford are scoring lots of goals, so it will probably be a 0-0," he said with a smile. Watford Observer
Nottingham Evening Post - Camp inspires confidence in Forest rearguard
- Lee Camp only turned 24 in August, still very young for a goalkeeper with a long future ahead of him in the game.
- But despite his tender years, he has amassed 183 first team appearances, with almost all his league experience coming in the Championship.
- He got his big break while still a teenager at local rivals Derby under now Scotland boss George Burley, before joining QPR in the summer of last year after a loan spell.
- An ever-present in their struggle against relegation last season, he became a fans' favourite, but dropped out of favour with the billionaire owners after just 12 months at Loftus Road.
Rangers' loss, though, has been Forest's gain.
- Camp oozes confidence on the pitch and is assured off it. He appears to have learned from his mistakes, rather than allowing them to knock his confidence.
And despite not hiding the fact that his family and friends are Rams fans, he has become a big hit on the banks of the Trent.
- His six solid performances might not have been rewarded with the clean sheet they deserve, but he has already saved two penalties.
- Both came in stoppage time, first against Derby and then last Saturday at Bristol City, and both stopped draws turning into morale-sapping defeats.
- There is no doubting the impact he has made – the song "Lee Camp is a Forest fan" can now be heard echoing around the City Ground.
- Some might have questioned Colin Calderwood's decision to bring in another goalkeeper.
- Paul Smith had been an ever-present for more than two seasons, and kept 24 clean sheets as Forest won promotion from League One last season.
Smith's shot-stopping is of the highest order, but Calderwood wanted another goalkeeper to add competition, someone with a strong command of his penalty area.
That is an attribute Reds legend Kenny Burns says is vital to giving confidence to defenders.
- He won two European Cups with Peter Shilton, England's most-capped player, playing behind him.
- And he believes it is no coincidence that Camp's arrival was followed by Forest sparking into life, with their performances getting more assured by the game.
He said: "Lee Camp, for me, is where it all started.
- "It was a great signing. I am not saying Paul Smith is a bad goalkeeper, because he is a very good one, but Camp offers more confidence to his defenders by the way he commands the area.
- "He has thrown in two last-gasp penalty saves and he is making a big impact at the City Ground.
- "It is great to see that confidence is spreading, and although they need to turn draws into wins, you cannot disregard how good some of these points are."
Camp has played in four draws, a victory at Crystal Palace and a defeat against Cardiff, where Forest somehow lost 1-0 despite dominating for large parts.
- But he admits he has not had much to do in his time, and points out how that proves the team are in a false position and will soon be climbing the table.
"If you look at how many saves I have to make and what I have to do in a game, it is very minimal," Camp said after the draw with Bristol City last week.
"For me there has not been a bad performance from the team since I have been here."
He is right, but there is no doubting his arrival has played a big part in that.
And the way the fans have taken to him proves he has played an important role in Forest's revival.
- For Paul Smith, you have to feel sympathy. To make 117 appearances in a Forest shirt in just over two years and then be dumped is going to be hard to take.
- All he can do his work hard in training, push Camp all the way and hope for his chance, or a suspension or a QPR recall for the on-loan goalkeeper.
- Camp is not due to go back until January, but as the London club's backers seem to prefer their new man Radek Cerny, he might be available beyond the start of next year.
- His commanding performances in the last six games have justified Calderwood's decision to bring him in, while his penalty saves have been an added bonus.
And while he is young, his displays are full of maturity.
- It will not be long until be breaks through the 200 league appearances barrier. With any luck, he will do it this season – in a Forest shirt. Nottingham Evening Post
Bristol Evening Post - Bristol Rovers sign Langley with a little help from their supporters
- Bristol Rovers last night swooped to sign midfielder Richard Langley on a short-term contract – thanks to the club's fans.
- The Jamaica international has been training with the Pirates for a month after an initial trial spell in August was cut short after a hamstring injury.
- The signing has been funded by the extended Supporter's Club Share Scheme.
Langley, a 28-year-old former Cardiff City and QPR player, was released by Luton Town at the end of last season after a cruciate ligament injury.
- Since training with Rovers for the second time, Langley has impressed the management, especially his performance during the recent reserve team win against Cheltenham Town.
- Director of football Lennie Lawrence said: "We are delighted to announce that we are taking Richard on a short term contract, to add competition for places in our midfield.
- "He has a very impressive pedigree and will be an asset to our squad."
Rovers chairman Nick Higgs said: "We are very pleased to be able to give Richard the opportunity to relaunch his career after a serious injury.
- "If we can get him back to being the player he was before that injury, then we could have a very good player on our hands...." Bristol Evening Post
- QPR Report Messageboard
[As always, visit the QPR Report Messageboardfor additional articles and for views:---- Financial Meltdown Hits the Premier League ----- Six Great Football Injustices ---- Profile of a Successful Championship Manager------ Reminder: Loan Transfer Window is about to close!
Huw Turbervill The Telegraph - Will Paulo Souza be given the time to make QPR 'project' work?
- So another bright new dawn at Queens Park Rangers, with new manager Paulo Souza declaring: "It is an honour to be part of this project."
- Owner Flavio Briatore also seems to think he has finally got the right man, after Luigi De Canio, Iain Dowie and stand-in manager Gareth Ainsworth's short-lived tenures. Briatore, who arrived at Loftus Road in August 2007, said: "Paulo has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach."
- But before anyone starts looking too far ahead, they might like to reflect on some of the tidings that were expressed at similar junctures in the Briatore era.
- Like when De Canio arrived, replacing Mick Harford, the interim boss who had filled the sacked John Gregory's shoes. "De Canio is fully aware of the high standards and objectives that the new management has set for the future of the club," said chairman Gianni Paladini. "He is ready and eager to take up the challenge."
- De Canio was an impressive, charming and open figure. "I am very excited at this fantastic opportunity," he said. "It will be an honour." No one knows if he returned to Italy by choice in the summer, but I, for one, would like to have seen him continue his good work - they were playing attractive football and he would surely have taken them to the play-offs at least.
- For whatever reason, he went back to Italy, and Iain Dowie was his surprise replacement. A kind of 'back-to-basics, no-thrills' choice. "I'm privileged to have been given the opportunity under the new ownership to return to the club where I served my managerial apprenticeship," said Dowie. "This is a very exciting long-term project."
- Unfortunately it was not a long-term project for him. From the off there were stories of behind-the-scenes rows, and he lasted only 15 games.
- Ainsworth was then given his chance, but despite hints from Briatore that he would like to have appointed him permanently, defeats to Ipswich and Burnley were apparently unpalatable, so they have opted for Souza, the former Portugal midfielder, on a two-and-half-year deal.
- Sousa said: "It is an honour to be part of this project. I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management. I believe in playing positive, attacking football and am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
- There it is, mentioned again ... 'the project'. An exciting trip to the Premier League presumably, but without breaking the bank achieving it. And preferably playing attractive football, to put on a good show for the fans, and for Briatore and his entourage.
- Souza's CV shows he has real pedigree. He won 51 international caps, and played for Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund.
- He was assistant coach of Portugal, working with Luis Felipe Scolari, now at Chelsea. They will not have far to go now if they want to meet for coffee - maybe there is a good cafe on Holland Park roundabout.
- It seems Souza's English is better than De Canio's, which will help, but he needs time to learn about English football, and time is something that, if recent events are anything to go by, he will not be afforded a great deal of.
- He will, however, have the services of striker Heidar Helguson, on loan from Bolton until January, and he will be in the squad for Saturday's trip to his former club Watford.
- QPR were a striker down, as Rowan Vine has undergone more surgery on his fractured leg. QPR have missed his creativity this season. Telegraph
Neil Warnock/Independent4. Flavio Briatore might have met his match in Sousa
- I can't say I know Paolo Sousa, the assistant coach from Portugal's national set-up, who has been hired as QPR's boss. If I'd had the chance to talk to him I might have told him already that life's far more difficult in the Championship than in the Premier League, because the standard of players just isn't as good and it's harder to win things. Sousa's impressed me already, though, and I'm enjoying watching how he goes on.
- He obviously wants to have his say on selections, which was the cause of all the problems for Iain Dowie, his predecessor at Loftus Road. I'm not sure about the level of investment Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone have put in – there aren't the big-name signings you might have expected – but they are not going to have a better chance of going up to the Premier League than they'll get this season. I only see three, maybe four teams, being ahead of all the others and it's there for anyone's taking among many of the rest. Sousa looks like he's going to add to the drama..." Independent
Watford Observer/Anthony Matthews - Mahon relishes return to Watford
Tomorrow's local derby with Queens Park Rangers is set to be an interesting experience for Gavin Mahon.
Not only will the former Watford midfielder be returning to Vicarage Road in a playing capacity for the first time since moving to Loftus Road at the turn of the year, he will also be out to impress a new boss if selected.
Rangers appointed former Portugese international Paulo Sousa as their new first-team coach on Wednesday and Mahon was still digesting the news when he spoke to the Watford Observer only a couple of hours after the appointment was confirmed.
"I remember seeing him as a player," said the 31-year-old of the former two-time Champions League winner with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund. "He was a top player and hopefully he can bring some new ideas and new training methods."
Sousa will certainly be under pressure to get results from the outset. Rangers were one of the pre-season favourites for promotion and although they are handily placed in tenth, three points outside the play-off zone, they have suffered from the bug that affects the majority of Championship teams – a lack of consistency.
"We would like to have had a bit better start but we are in a resonable position," said Mahon, who "is trying hard to get back in the team" after being forced to settle for a place on the bench for the last four league games during Gareth Ainsworth's caretaker spell in charge following the departure of Iain Dowie.
Whether the Hornets' 2004 Player of the Season starts or not tomorrow, he is looking forward to returning to a club for whom he made more than 200 appearances during a near five-year spell.
He said: "I've only been back once for the Hull game in the play-offs, so it will good to go back and see a few old faces.
"I only spoke to Sean Dyche yesterday, I still live in St Albans, so I still bump into a few of the boys. I was there long enough to make a few friends which is good."
However, Mahon, who was a popular target for the Vicarage Road boo-boys, admits he is not sure what reception he will receive from the Watford fans, although he is hoping it will be a favourable one.
"I didn't have the best of starts, but once I got back to full fitness I played over 200 games," the former Vicarage Road skipper reflected.
"They paid £150,000 for me and five years down the line we’d been promoted to the Premiership and played in an FA Cup semi-final.
"I had a few good letters when I left from people who said they appreciated my work. Maybe it [the reception] will be mixed? Hopefully it will be good but you never quite know."
Mahon was controversially deemed surplus to requirements by Aidy Boothroyd in the aftermath of the season-defining home reverse against West Bromwich Albion at the start of last November and his Hornets' career ended on a low, substituted in the 2-1 defeat against Bristol City almost a month later.
That game was played on December 1 when Watford were still top of the Championship. Almost a year later they find themselves third from bottom of the table.
"I said on the record then that I didn't want to go at that time, I wanted to go at the end of the season," said Mahon, whose deal at Vicarage Road would have ended in the summer.
"Some people have said I got out at the right time. Maybe I did, maybe I didn't.
"By all accounts they've been a tiny bit unlucky," he added of Watford's fortunes this season.
"They've been scoring plenty of goals but defensively maybe there's been a lack of concentration at times and they've had some bad luck.
"From the supporters' point of view I don't know what they were expecting because a lot of the big-name players have gone. They have still got players good enough for this division, but that's for the supporters."
Looking ahead to tomorrow's game, do not expect the recent sequence of high-scoring affairs at Vicarage Road to continue if Mahon's light-hearted prediction is anything to go by.
"At the minute we are not scoring too many goals, but we are very strong defensively. Watford are scoring lots of goals, so it will probably be a 0-0," he said with a smile. Watford Observer
Nottingham Evening Post - Camp inspires confidence in Forest rearguard
- Lee Camp only turned 24 in August, still very young for a goalkeeper with a long future ahead of him in the game.
- But despite his tender years, he has amassed 183 first team appearances, with almost all his league experience coming in the Championship.
- He got his big break while still a teenager at local rivals Derby under now Scotland boss George Burley, before joining QPR in the summer of last year after a loan spell.
- An ever-present in their struggle against relegation last season, he became a fans' favourite, but dropped out of favour with the billionaire owners after just 12 months at Loftus Road.
Rangers' loss, though, has been Forest's gain.
- Camp oozes confidence on the pitch and is assured off it. He appears to have learned from his mistakes, rather than allowing them to knock his confidence.
And despite not hiding the fact that his family and friends are Rams fans, he has become a big hit on the banks of the Trent.
- His six solid performances might not have been rewarded with the clean sheet they deserve, but he has already saved two penalties.
- Both came in stoppage time, first against Derby and then last Saturday at Bristol City, and both stopped draws turning into morale-sapping defeats.
- There is no doubting the impact he has made – the song "Lee Camp is a Forest fan" can now be heard echoing around the City Ground.
- Some might have questioned Colin Calderwood's decision to bring in another goalkeeper.
- Paul Smith had been an ever-present for more than two seasons, and kept 24 clean sheets as Forest won promotion from League One last season.
Smith's shot-stopping is of the highest order, but Calderwood wanted another goalkeeper to add competition, someone with a strong command of his penalty area.
That is an attribute Reds legend Kenny Burns says is vital to giving confidence to defenders.
- He won two European Cups with Peter Shilton, England's most-capped player, playing behind him.
- And he believes it is no coincidence that Camp's arrival was followed by Forest sparking into life, with their performances getting more assured by the game.
He said: "Lee Camp, for me, is where it all started.
- "It was a great signing. I am not saying Paul Smith is a bad goalkeeper, because he is a very good one, but Camp offers more confidence to his defenders by the way he commands the area.
- "He has thrown in two last-gasp penalty saves and he is making a big impact at the City Ground.
- "It is great to see that confidence is spreading, and although they need to turn draws into wins, you cannot disregard how good some of these points are."
Camp has played in four draws, a victory at Crystal Palace and a defeat against Cardiff, where Forest somehow lost 1-0 despite dominating for large parts.
- But he admits he has not had much to do in his time, and points out how that proves the team are in a false position and will soon be climbing the table.
"If you look at how many saves I have to make and what I have to do in a game, it is very minimal," Camp said after the draw with Bristol City last week.
"For me there has not been a bad performance from the team since I have been here."
He is right, but there is no doubting his arrival has played a big part in that.
And the way the fans have taken to him proves he has played an important role in Forest's revival.
- For Paul Smith, you have to feel sympathy. To make 117 appearances in a Forest shirt in just over two years and then be dumped is going to be hard to take.
- All he can do his work hard in training, push Camp all the way and hope for his chance, or a suspension or a QPR recall for the on-loan goalkeeper.
- Camp is not due to go back until January, but as the London club's backers seem to prefer their new man Radek Cerny, he might be available beyond the start of next year.
- His commanding performances in the last six games have justified Calderwood's decision to bring him in, while his penalty saves have been an added bonus.
And while he is young, his displays are full of maturity.
- It will not be long until be breaks through the 200 league appearances barrier. With any luck, he will do it this season – in a Forest shirt. Nottingham Evening Post
Bristol Evening Post - Bristol Rovers sign Langley with a little help from their supporters
- Bristol Rovers last night swooped to sign midfielder Richard Langley on a short-term contract – thanks to the club's fans.
- The Jamaica international has been training with the Pirates for a month after an initial trial spell in August was cut short after a hamstring injury.
- The signing has been funded by the extended Supporter's Club Share Scheme.
Langley, a 28-year-old former Cardiff City and QPR player, was released by Luton Town at the end of last season after a cruciate ligament injury.
- Since training with Rovers for the second time, Langley has impressed the management, especially his performance during the recent reserve team win against Cheltenham Town.
- Director of football Lennie Lawrence said: "We are delighted to announce that we are taking Richard on a short term contract, to add competition for places in our midfield.
- "He has a very impressive pedigree and will be an asset to our squad."
Rovers chairman Nick Higgs said: "We are very pleased to be able to give Richard the opportunity to relaunch his career after a serious injury.
- "If we can get him back to being the player he was before that injury, then we could have a very good player on our hands...." Bristol Evening Post
- QPR Report Messageboard
Friday, November 21, 2008
An (Unidentified) Inside View of QPR Chairman, Flavio Briatore - "A Dictator and a Really Nasty Piece of Work"
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Charles Sale/Daily Mail - EXCLUSIVE: QPR owner Flavio Briatore branded 'a dictator and a really nasty piece of work'
A QPR insider has launched an astonishing attack on owner Flavio Briatore, claiming the Formula One tycoon is hated by everyone at Loftus Road. In a powderkeg email leaked to Rangers fans, he describes Renault's Grand Prix boss Briatore as 'a dictator and a really nasty piece of work' who wants to pick the team himself.
The author, whose identity cannot be revealed, urges the email's recipients to use his inside information to stir up trouble but not to reveal the source. It was copied to fans after last Saturday's home defeat by Burnley which led to caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth being replaced by Paulo Sousa.
Briatore
The email, written by someone with intimate knowledge of the club, asks: 'How much is Flavio really costing us? Flavio wants a proper manager to replace Ainsworth but he still wants to pick the team.
'Believe me, from (sporting director) Gianni Paladini downwards to everyone working at QPR, including nearly all players, anyone who has met Flavio absolutely hates him and what he's doing to the club. He is impossible, a dictator and a really nasty piece of work. But nobody can speak out because he will finish them if they do.'
The insider goes on to pose a series of questions:
1 How much are QPR paying ex-boss Iain Dowie to sit out the remainder of his contract (almost two years), surely with tax must be over £2million. Who is paying for this?
2 Is it true Danny Parejo (striker on loan from Real Madrid) is getting £40,000 per week from QPR? Who is funding this and why? How are we paying for that?
3 How much do Matteo Alberti, Samuel Di Carmine and Damiano Tommasi cost us and who decided to bring them to QPR when nobody else was going to pay them such wages? How are we paying for it?
4 Why is agent David Manasseh permanently in the QPR boardroom and C-Club sitting by Flavio. What is his role and how much is he paid or paying for the privilege?
5 How many seats have actually been sold in the C-Club, instead of handed out to Flavio's friends?
6 Is it true Flavio is going to the training ground regularly and berating players - and many players are getting fed up with QPR?
7 Why did Flavio not celebrate Dexter Blackstock's goal today (anyone around could see)? Is it because he does not like Blackstock and wants to ship him out like he has done with Angelo Balanta to make way for Di Carmine?
8 With so many empty seats today, and given co-owner Bernie Ecclestone now has his own serious personal problems and Flavio doesn't have that much cash and won't put his hand in his pocket, how is the club funding the massive wage bills Flavio has built up? Surely it must be millions a month now, who is paying? Does Flavio really expect the (co-owner) Lakshmi Mittal to bail him out in January when he refuses to let them (the co-owners) have any say in the club? They aren't mugs.
Manasseh said he was often seen at QPR because he had paid for two seats in the C-Club - believed to have cost him £20,000. Last night QPR declined to comment.
Daily Mail
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Charles Sale/Daily Mail - EXCLUSIVE: QPR owner Flavio Briatore branded 'a dictator and a really nasty piece of work'
A QPR insider has launched an astonishing attack on owner Flavio Briatore, claiming the Formula One tycoon is hated by everyone at Loftus Road. In a powderkeg email leaked to Rangers fans, he describes Renault's Grand Prix boss Briatore as 'a dictator and a really nasty piece of work' who wants to pick the team himself.
The author, whose identity cannot be revealed, urges the email's recipients to use his inside information to stir up trouble but not to reveal the source. It was copied to fans after last Saturday's home defeat by Burnley which led to caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth being replaced by Paulo Sousa.
Briatore
The email, written by someone with intimate knowledge of the club, asks: 'How much is Flavio really costing us? Flavio wants a proper manager to replace Ainsworth but he still wants to pick the team.
'Believe me, from (sporting director) Gianni Paladini downwards to everyone working at QPR, including nearly all players, anyone who has met Flavio absolutely hates him and what he's doing to the club. He is impossible, a dictator and a really nasty piece of work. But nobody can speak out because he will finish them if they do.'
The insider goes on to pose a series of questions:
1 How much are QPR paying ex-boss Iain Dowie to sit out the remainder of his contract (almost two years), surely with tax must be over £2million. Who is paying for this?
2 Is it true Danny Parejo (striker on loan from Real Madrid) is getting £40,000 per week from QPR? Who is funding this and why? How are we paying for that?
3 How much do Matteo Alberti, Samuel Di Carmine and Damiano Tommasi cost us and who decided to bring them to QPR when nobody else was going to pay them such wages? How are we paying for it?
4 Why is agent David Manasseh permanently in the QPR boardroom and C-Club sitting by Flavio. What is his role and how much is he paid or paying for the privilege?
5 How many seats have actually been sold in the C-Club, instead of handed out to Flavio's friends?
6 Is it true Flavio is going to the training ground regularly and berating players - and many players are getting fed up with QPR?
7 Why did Flavio not celebrate Dexter Blackstock's goal today (anyone around could see)? Is it because he does not like Blackstock and wants to ship him out like he has done with Angelo Balanta to make way for Di Carmine?
8 With so many empty seats today, and given co-owner Bernie Ecclestone now has his own serious personal problems and Flavio doesn't have that much cash and won't put his hand in his pocket, how is the club funding the massive wage bills Flavio has built up? Surely it must be millions a month now, who is paying? Does Flavio really expect the (co-owner) Lakshmi Mittal to bail him out in January when he refuses to let them (the co-owners) have any say in the club? They aren't mugs.
Manasseh said he was often seen at QPR because he had paid for two seats in the C-Club - believed to have cost him £20,000. Last night QPR declined to comment.
Daily Mail
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QPR/Football Aid Charity - Play at Loftus Road and Help Charity
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FOOTBALL AID- Play on the Pitch experience, with QPR and Football Aid!
- Football Aid are back for what promises to be another thrilling season of footballing action, so forget the looming January transfer window, it’s your chance to make your own sporting history by being a part of Football Aid 2009!
- QPR have once again teamed up with fundraising organisation Football Aid where both season ticket holders and sofa supporters alike can climb out of their comfort zone and soar straight onto the pitch with a fantastic “Live the Dream” experience.
- Football Aid is a unique concept which allows fans of the beautiful game to get even closer to the team they love. In this game, everyone’s a winner. On one side of the referee’s coin, you get to Live the Dream: by pulling on your personalized shirt in the official changing room, and running down the tunnel, taking those precious first steps onto the hallowed turf, you really can live the life of a professional footballer for the day! You may even be graced with former players to play or manage your team, who in the past have included Danny Maddix, Clive Wilson and Gary Waddock.
- And if that’s not enough, on the flip side of the coin all funds generated from the game are split between fantastic charitable causes including QPR’s nominated charity, the leagues nominated charity and Football Aid’s parent charity, Field of Dreams, helping to raise money and awareness for Type 1 Diabetes.
- But don’t just take our word for it! Fan Grant Foster played lived his dream last year and said: “It really was a wonderful day at QPR. My son and fiancee were in attendance and we all agreed that the Football Aid staff were first class.
- ”The Legends, Clive Wilson & Danny Maddix, encouraged and bought others into the game at every opportunity. Dave Robinson, our manager, made us feel like pros for the time we were at the club.
- ”I saw my first match in the 1975/76 season (April Bank Holiday Monday - Rangers 2 Arsenal 1!), so to tread the hallowed turf was a dream come true!”
- Securing your position in this unique event has never been easier with the ability to purchase online, meaning you won’t even have to pick up the phone! Visit www.footballaid.com/events and select which team you will be playing for at the end of the footballing season. If your position is not available, why not take on a new role and become the Super Hoops favourite new utility player?
- So before the referee blows his final whistle, make sure that you’re ahead of the game and visit www.footballaid.com or contact the Football Aid sales team on 0131 220 5999 or info@footballaid.com for your chance to Live the Dream.
- Football Aid was created as a unique way of raising money for charity and voluntary organisations. Through our parent charity, Field of Dreams' multi-beneficiary grant award scheme, the funds raised from the Football Aid events are distributed to diabetes research, education and management projects plus charities nominated for funding by QPR.
- Also See: Football Aid Charity - QPR
- Also: QPR Official Site, September 2008 - "Play at Loftus Road
FOOTBALL AID- Play on the Pitch experience, with QPR and Football Aid!
- Football Aid are back for what promises to be another thrilling season of footballing action, so forget the looming January transfer window, it’s your chance to make your own sporting history by being a part of Football Aid 2009!
- QPR have once again teamed up with fundraising organisation Football Aid where both season ticket holders and sofa supporters alike can climb out of their comfort zone and soar straight onto the pitch with a fantastic “Live the Dream” experience.
- Football Aid is a unique concept which allows fans of the beautiful game to get even closer to the team they love. In this game, everyone’s a winner. On one side of the referee’s coin, you get to Live the Dream: by pulling on your personalized shirt in the official changing room, and running down the tunnel, taking those precious first steps onto the hallowed turf, you really can live the life of a professional footballer for the day! You may even be graced with former players to play or manage your team, who in the past have included Danny Maddix, Clive Wilson and Gary Waddock.
- And if that’s not enough, on the flip side of the coin all funds generated from the game are split between fantastic charitable causes including QPR’s nominated charity, the leagues nominated charity and Football Aid’s parent charity, Field of Dreams, helping to raise money and awareness for Type 1 Diabetes.
- But don’t just take our word for it! Fan Grant Foster played lived his dream last year and said: “It really was a wonderful day at QPR. My son and fiancee were in attendance and we all agreed that the Football Aid staff were first class.
- ”The Legends, Clive Wilson & Danny Maddix, encouraged and bought others into the game at every opportunity. Dave Robinson, our manager, made us feel like pros for the time we were at the club.
- ”I saw my first match in the 1975/76 season (April Bank Holiday Monday - Rangers 2 Arsenal 1!), so to tread the hallowed turf was a dream come true!”
- Securing your position in this unique event has never been easier with the ability to purchase online, meaning you won’t even have to pick up the phone! Visit www.footballaid.com/events and select which team you will be playing for at the end of the footballing season. If your position is not available, why not take on a new role and become the Super Hoops favourite new utility player?
- So before the referee blows his final whistle, make sure that you’re ahead of the game and visit www.footballaid.com or contact the Football Aid sales team on 0131 220 5999 or info@footballaid.com for your chance to Live the Dream.
- Football Aid was created as a unique way of raising money for charity and voluntary organisations. Through our parent charity, Field of Dreams' multi-beneficiary grant award scheme, the funds raised from the Football Aid events are distributed to diabetes research, education and management projects plus charities nominated for funding by QPR.
- Also See: Football Aid Charity - QPR
- Also: QPR Official Site, September 2008 - "Play at Loftus Road
Mail "Advice" to Sousa...Sousa Visits Buszaky in Hospital
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Daily Mail/Hatchet Man - Wise up Paulo before Briatore calls you in for one of his 'normal' chats at QPR
Paulo Sousa has only been in his new job at Queens Park Rangers for a couple of days and he is already in denial.
‘I’m in charge…I have free decisions,’ claimed the new first-team coach after suggestions he hadn‘t been given the title of manager for a very good reason.
Better still, he added: ‘He [chairman Flavio Briatore] doesn’t tell me anything about promotion. He doesn’t put pressure on me, not for this season and not for next season.’
Scroll down for more
Hard to please: QPR chairman Flavio Briatore
Either Sousa is extraordinarily naive and knows absolutely nothing about the club he has joined or he is out of his mind.
But if the Portuguese was sincere when making the above statements, he is about to learn about club management the hard way.
When rumours surfaced recently that former manager Iain Dowie quit QPR because Briatore tried to tell him which team to pick, the Italian claimed they had simply had a ‘normal discussion’.
It is also thought that Briatore considered appointing himself manager before making Sousa ‘boss’.
And the idea that QPR are no in a rush to achieve promotion is preposterous.
Sousa is the fourth manager at the club since Briatore took charge and one thing his predecessors all have in common is that they have failed to take the Championship by storm.
None of them was given much time to do so either, so wise up Paulo - and quick Mail
From the Official Site: Injury Update. Reports Sousa Visited Buzsaky in the Hospital.
Daily Mail/Hatchet Man - Wise up Paulo before Briatore calls you in for one of his 'normal' chats at QPR
Paulo Sousa has only been in his new job at Queens Park Rangers for a couple of days and he is already in denial.
‘I’m in charge…I have free decisions,’ claimed the new first-team coach after suggestions he hadn‘t been given the title of manager for a very good reason.
Better still, he added: ‘He [chairman Flavio Briatore] doesn’t tell me anything about promotion. He doesn’t put pressure on me, not for this season and not for next season.’
Scroll down for more
Hard to please: QPR chairman Flavio Briatore
Either Sousa is extraordinarily naive and knows absolutely nothing about the club he has joined or he is out of his mind.
But if the Portuguese was sincere when making the above statements, he is about to learn about club management the hard way.
When rumours surfaced recently that former manager Iain Dowie quit QPR because Briatore tried to tell him which team to pick, the Italian claimed they had simply had a ‘normal discussion’.
It is also thought that Briatore considered appointing himself manager before making Sousa ‘boss’.
And the idea that QPR are no in a rush to achieve promotion is preposterous.
Sousa is the fourth manager at the club since Briatore took charge and one thing his predecessors all have in common is that they have failed to take the Championship by storm.
None of them was given much time to do so either, so wise up Paulo - and quick Mail
From the Official Site: Injury Update. Reports Sousa Visited Buzsaky in the Hospital.
Sousa Comes Highly Recommended...QPR Player Out on Loan to Non-League Mangotsfield
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QPR Official Site - SOUSA'S GLOWING REFERENCE
- Flavio Briatore sought the advice of Fabio Capello, Luiz Felipe Scolari and Jose Mourinho amongst others, before appointing Paulo Sousa as the R's new First Team Coach.
- As Sousa prepares his troops for the R's crucial Championship clash against Watford on Saturday, the QPR Holdings Ltd Chairman revealed how he got his man.
- "I spoke to them (Capello, Scolari and Mourinho) all about who would be the best guy for our future," he told www.qpr.co.uk.
- "They gave Paulo a good reference and he is the right choice for QPR.
- "He's young, ambitious and serious about our project.
- "He has a great personality and is young, so he understands our players."
- Flanked by (Sporting Director) Gianni Paladini and (Managing Director) Alejandro Agag, Briatore was on hand to introduce the squad to their new gaffer on Thursday morning, and added: "We're complete now.
- "The people are what matter most and we needed someone like Paulo here.
- "He has the commitment and the knowledge to take us to where we want to be.
- "This new chapter starts now - against Watford on Saturday." QPR
Bristol Evening Post - Mangotsfield chief Milsom delighted with his new Ford
- MANGOTSFIELD United manager Paul Milsom, pictured, has pulled off a significant coup this week with the signing of a player from Coca-Cola Championship club Queen's Park Rangers.
- Bristolian Josh Ford has agreed to join the Cossham Street outfit on loan for a month and, with Mangotsfield without a Premier Division game tomorrow, he will make his debut in the Southern League GX Cup clash at home to Yate Town next Tuesday.
"Josh is a first year pro at QPR, having been at Loftus Road for two years, but because the club now has so many professionals, is unable to even get a game for the reserves," said Milsom.
- "The club management said he needs to play games and, while a couple of Ryman League clubs have asked about him, it was thought it would be better for him to come home to Bristol and play for us.
- "Initially he is here for a month but I know that Cardiff City have also been keeping an eye on him and he has played a friendly for them, but nothing has come of that yet."
- Ford, a 6ft 3ins defender, will replace the suspended Scott Hendy against Yate..... Bristol Evening Post
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
QPR Official Site - SOUSA'S GLOWING REFERENCE
- Flavio Briatore sought the advice of Fabio Capello, Luiz Felipe Scolari and Jose Mourinho amongst others, before appointing Paulo Sousa as the R's new First Team Coach.
- As Sousa prepares his troops for the R's crucial Championship clash against Watford on Saturday, the QPR Holdings Ltd Chairman revealed how he got his man.
- "I spoke to them (Capello, Scolari and Mourinho) all about who would be the best guy for our future," he told www.qpr.co.uk.
- "They gave Paulo a good reference and he is the right choice for QPR.
- "He's young, ambitious and serious about our project.
- "He has a great personality and is young, so he understands our players."
- Flanked by (Sporting Director) Gianni Paladini and (Managing Director) Alejandro Agag, Briatore was on hand to introduce the squad to their new gaffer on Thursday morning, and added: "We're complete now.
- "The people are what matter most and we needed someone like Paulo here.
- "He has the commitment and the knowledge to take us to where we want to be.
- "This new chapter starts now - against Watford on Saturday." QPR
Bristol Evening Post - Mangotsfield chief Milsom delighted with his new Ford
- MANGOTSFIELD United manager Paul Milsom, pictured, has pulled off a significant coup this week with the signing of a player from Coca-Cola Championship club Queen's Park Rangers.
- Bristolian Josh Ford has agreed to join the Cossham Street outfit on loan for a month and, with Mangotsfield without a Premier Division game tomorrow, he will make his debut in the Southern League GX Cup clash at home to Yate Town next Tuesday.
"Josh is a first year pro at QPR, having been at Loftus Road for two years, but because the club now has so many professionals, is unable to even get a game for the reserves," said Milsom.
- "The club management said he needs to play games and, while a couple of Ryman League clubs have asked about him, it was thought it would be better for him to come home to Bristol and play for us.
- "Initially he is here for a month but I know that Cardiff City have also been keeping an eye on him and he has played a friendly for them, but nothing has come of that yet."
- Ford, a 6ft 3ins defender, will replace the suspended Scott Hendy against Yate..... Bristol Evening Post
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Briatore Action Evokes Memory of Jim Gregory...Les Ferdinand in the Gulf for QPR? QPR Training Youth in the Gulf...Watford View of Helguson
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- For Additional QPR and other football articles of general interest and discussion: Visit, read and/or post on the QPR Report Messageboard -- See Also: Guests Welcome ---
Brian Glanville/World Soccer - From Flavio Briatore Back to Jim Gregory
"Flavio Briatore, QPR chairman and financier, hardly the most blushing of violets, has been accused of leaning over the edge of the stand and shouting advice to his erstwhile acting manager, Gareth Ainsworth. There’s nothing new under the sun, however; not least at Shepherds Bush.
- When Jim Gregory, the tough little West Londoner who bankrolled QPR successfully for so many years, was chairman, his word was inexorable law. Some years ago, the word was that QPR would sell their star striker, Rodney Marsh, to Manchester City. “Over my dead body!” cried the Rangers manager, Gordon Jago. A day or two later the smoke cleared; Marsh had gone to Maine Road and Jago was still alive. So, emphatically, was Jim Gregory. World Soccer
- QPR and the Gulf: Les Ferdinand? Les Ferdinand in the Gulf on QPR/Gulf Business? - QPR Youth Training in the Gulf
- Heidar Helguson in the Eyes of Watford: Old Watford Fansite view of Helguson (and other Watford players who moved on to QPR)
- Padula Update: Padula plays this weekend in the MLS Final...Praise for Padula
- Also: Proposed New EU Regulations could change football --- UEFA Youth Proposal re U-18s Set to Flounder-----Totally Non-QPR: Controversy in New Zealand! --- And Swindon's Coach Arrested re Threat to Kill
Ex-QPR Defender Warren Neil Turns 46-Born November 21, 1962. Given his debut by Tommy Docherty in August 1980. Was one of the FA Cup 3rd Heros scoring QPR's 3rd in the 3-2 win in their replay at Middlsbrough. Played in the 1981-1982 FA Cup Final Replay Team, replacing the suspended Glen Roeder, And formed part of the following season's promotion team (Neil Wicks Fenwick Dawes).In all, played a little under 200 games before being sold to Portsmouth in July 1988. Returned as a youth team coach, for a couple of years before departing when QPR had their cutbacks a few years back. Neil returned to QPR a couple of years ago, under John Gregory and left a few weeks ago, after Gregory was dismissed by QPR. Profile
Seven Years Ago: Kevin Gallen Returned to QPR
Wednesday, 21 November, 2001, - Gallen back at QPR
Queens Park Rangers have completed the signing of striker Kevin Gallen from Barnsley.
Gallen returns to the club where he made his name by breaking Jimmy Greaves' youth goalscoring record in 1992.
The 26-year-old, a lifelong QPR fan, has agreed a deal that will keep him at Loftus Road until the end of next season after a relatively unsuccessful spell at Oakwell.
"I'm absolutely delighted. I never wanted to leave in the first place, things happened but that's in the past," he told the club's website. ...
"QPR are my team, I'm delighted to be back and can't wait to pull on the blue and white hoops once again. I'm over the moon. "It's happened really quickly and now I'm looking forward to Wednesday night and the derby against Brentford on Saturday."
- QPR Report Messageboard
- For Additional QPR and other football articles of general interest and discussion: Visit, read and/or post on the QPR Report Messageboard -- See Also: Guests Welcome ---
Brian Glanville/World Soccer - From Flavio Briatore Back to Jim Gregory
"Flavio Briatore, QPR chairman and financier, hardly the most blushing of violets, has been accused of leaning over the edge of the stand and shouting advice to his erstwhile acting manager, Gareth Ainsworth. There’s nothing new under the sun, however; not least at Shepherds Bush.
- When Jim Gregory, the tough little West Londoner who bankrolled QPR successfully for so many years, was chairman, his word was inexorable law. Some years ago, the word was that QPR would sell their star striker, Rodney Marsh, to Manchester City. “Over my dead body!” cried the Rangers manager, Gordon Jago. A day or two later the smoke cleared; Marsh had gone to Maine Road and Jago was still alive. So, emphatically, was Jim Gregory. World Soccer
- QPR and the Gulf: Les Ferdinand? Les Ferdinand in the Gulf on QPR/Gulf Business? - QPR Youth Training in the Gulf
- Heidar Helguson in the Eyes of Watford: Old Watford Fansite view of Helguson (and other Watford players who moved on to QPR)
- Padula Update: Padula plays this weekend in the MLS Final...Praise for Padula
- Also: Proposed New EU Regulations could change football --- UEFA Youth Proposal re U-18s Set to Flounder-----Totally Non-QPR: Controversy in New Zealand! --- And Swindon's Coach Arrested re Threat to Kill
Ex-QPR Defender Warren Neil Turns 46-Born November 21, 1962. Given his debut by Tommy Docherty in August 1980. Was one of the FA Cup 3rd Heros scoring QPR's 3rd in the 3-2 win in their replay at Middlsbrough. Played in the 1981-1982 FA Cup Final Replay Team, replacing the suspended Glen Roeder, And formed part of the following season's promotion team (Neil Wicks Fenwick Dawes).In all, played a little under 200 games before being sold to Portsmouth in July 1988. Returned as a youth team coach, for a couple of years before departing when QPR had their cutbacks a few years back. Neil returned to QPR a couple of years ago, under John Gregory and left a few weeks ago, after Gregory was dismissed by QPR. Profile
Seven Years Ago: Kevin Gallen Returned to QPR
Wednesday, 21 November, 2001, - Gallen back at QPR
Queens Park Rangers have completed the signing of striker Kevin Gallen from Barnsley.
Gallen returns to the club where he made his name by breaking Jimmy Greaves' youth goalscoring record in 1992.
The 26-year-old, a lifelong QPR fan, has agreed a deal that will keep him at Loftus Road until the end of next season after a relatively unsuccessful spell at Oakwell.
"I'm absolutely delighted. I never wanted to leave in the first place, things happened but that's in the past," he told the club's website. ...
"QPR are my team, I'm delighted to be back and can't wait to pull on the blue and white hoops once again. I'm over the moon. "It's happened really quickly and now I'm looking forward to Wednesday night and the derby against Brentford on Saturday."
- QPR Report Messageboard
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Next: Watford vs QPR
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Watford vs QPR- QPR travel to third from bottom, managerless Watford on Saturday under new First Team Coach, Sousa. According to press reports (been there/done that): QPR will have a new striker on loan: The supposedly-previously-failed a fitness test, Bolton striker, Helgusson.
-Watford's home record is 3 wins, 2 draws, 3 defeats (15 scored; 15 conceded) QPR's away record is 1 win, 3 draws, 4 defeats (2 scored, 8 conceded)
Watford's squad.....Watford Stats.....Watford's results....Current League Table
TIME OUT LONDON - WATFORD MINI- PREVIEW Queen's Park Rangers' Gavin Mahon returns to Vicarage Road to take a look at the sinking ship from which he jumped almost a year ago. While his new club sits on the edge of a play-off position, his old outfit is in the thick of a battle to escape the bottom three. The exit of manager Aidy Boothroyd was a surprise for the Watford faithful; though many didn't welcome the decision, it could signal a new era for the Hornets. To give things a much-needed kick start, Jay DeMerit and Leigh Bromby will be in charge of locking together a defence that must no longer give away sloppy goals. Luckily forWatford, Rangers' away form has been something of a struggle all season: Gareth Ainsworth's side have scored just twice on their travels. This will have to change: consistency is essential for a team that wants to compete in the Premier League again.Nick Golding Time Out
Past Head to Head Results: QPR have won 45; Watford have won 27 and 28 have been drawn.
The two clubs last met December 29, last year with QPR winning 4-2
Watford: Lee, Jackson (Shittu 46), Stewart, DeMerit, Francis, Henderson, McAnuff, Doyley (O'Toole 80), Williamson, Ellington (King 69), Smith. Subs: Mariappa, Ainsworth. Scorers: Camp (o.g) 52, Shittu 85
QPR: Camp, Barker, Stewart, Bolder, Blackstock, Ainsworth (Vine 63), Rowlands, Malcolm, Rehman, Nygaard (Walton 92), Balanta (Buzsaky 74). Subs: Cole, Moore.
Scorers: Rowlands 13 (pen) & 40, Stewart 29, Buzsaky 82
- Match Reports Compilation I ----
There are many, many QPR-Watford links: From on the coaching side: Kenny Jackett and Mike Keen and Glen Roeder and Frank Sibley; to on the playing side, Steve Palmer and Lee Cook and Paul Furlong. And over the years quite a few others who played for both: From Ian Morgan and Tony Currie on down to Danny Shittu and Gavin Mahon and Chris Day. And today's latest loan from Bolton, Helguson is merely the latest (hopefully making more of an impact than Ngone and Foley)
-Snippet: Until about a year ago, Watford had a fabulous fanzine website - Blind, Stupid and Desperate (which can still be read; just not updated)
- See Also: Clive Whittingham/LoftforWords: Watford Preview
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Watford vs QPR- QPR travel to third from bottom, managerless Watford on Saturday under new First Team Coach, Sousa. According to press reports (been there/done that): QPR will have a new striker on loan: The supposedly-previously-failed a fitness test, Bolton striker, Helgusson.
-Watford's home record is 3 wins, 2 draws, 3 defeats (15 scored; 15 conceded) QPR's away record is 1 win, 3 draws, 4 defeats (2 scored, 8 conceded)
Watford's squad.....Watford Stats.....Watford's results....Current League Table
TIME OUT LONDON - WATFORD MINI- PREVIEW Queen's Park Rangers' Gavin Mahon returns to Vicarage Road to take a look at the sinking ship from which he jumped almost a year ago. While his new club sits on the edge of a play-off position, his old outfit is in the thick of a battle to escape the bottom three. The exit of manager Aidy Boothroyd was a surprise for the Watford faithful; though many didn't welcome the decision, it could signal a new era for the Hornets. To give things a much-needed kick start, Jay DeMerit and Leigh Bromby will be in charge of locking together a defence that must no longer give away sloppy goals. Luckily forWatford, Rangers' away form has been something of a struggle all season: Gareth Ainsworth's side have scored just twice on their travels. This will have to change: consistency is essential for a team that wants to compete in the Premier League again.Nick Golding Time Out
Past Head to Head Results: QPR have won 45; Watford have won 27 and 28 have been drawn.
The two clubs last met December 29, last year with QPR winning 4-2
Watford: Lee, Jackson (Shittu 46), Stewart, DeMerit, Francis, Henderson, McAnuff, Doyley (O'Toole 80), Williamson, Ellington (King 69), Smith. Subs: Mariappa, Ainsworth. Scorers: Camp (o.g) 52, Shittu 85
QPR: Camp, Barker, Stewart, Bolder, Blackstock, Ainsworth (Vine 63), Rowlands, Malcolm, Rehman, Nygaard (Walton 92), Balanta (Buzsaky 74). Subs: Cole, Moore.
Scorers: Rowlands 13 (pen) & 40, Stewart 29, Buzsaky 82
- Match Reports Compilation I ----
There are many, many QPR-Watford links: From on the coaching side: Kenny Jackett and Mike Keen and Glen Roeder and Frank Sibley; to on the playing side, Steve Palmer and Lee Cook and Paul Furlong. And over the years quite a few others who played for both: From Ian Morgan and Tony Currie on down to Danny Shittu and Gavin Mahon and Chris Day. And today's latest loan from Bolton, Helguson is merely the latest (hopefully making more of an impact than Ngone and Foley)
-Snippet: Until about a year ago, Watford had a fabulous fanzine website - Blind, Stupid and Desperate (which can still be read; just not updated)
- See Also: Clive Whittingham/LoftforWords: Watford Preview
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Sousa: Not Demanding Instant Promotion...Sousa's in Sole Charge of the Team
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Sky: Sousa - No promotion pressure
New QPR boss looking to make his mark
Paulo Sousa has told Sky Sports News he is under no pressure to secure promotion at Queens Park Rangers this season.
Former Portugal international Sousa has been appointed as QPR's new manager following last month's sacking of Iain Dowie.
Sousa has been working with the Portugal national team and the Loftus Road position is his first job in club football.
He is looking forward to managing the Championship side and says chairman Flavio Briatore has not demanded immediate promotion to the Premier League.
Solid
"No, he doesn't tell me anything about that," Sousa told Sky Sports News when asked if his target is to secure top-flight football this term.
"He doesn't put pressure on me, not for this season and not for next season.
"The project is to be solid because when you go into the Premier League you have to be so solid so you can remain in the Premier League. This is the most important."
The ex-Benfica and Juventus midfielder also insists he has control over team affairs amid rumours that Briatore has previously had a hand in picking the team.
He added: "I'm in charge. I have all the respect for everyone, but I have free ideas and free decisions."
Sousa is also hoping he can eventually clinch Premier League football for QPR in order to come up against Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari after the pair worked together with Portugal.
"I will fight for that," he continued. "If I win more than the others I will be in the Premier League and I will play against him.
"Of course I want to be at that level, but I know the reality. Dreaming is good and I like to dream - Sky
Sky: Sousa - No promotion pressure
New QPR boss looking to make his mark
Paulo Sousa has told Sky Sports News he is under no pressure to secure promotion at Queens Park Rangers this season.
Former Portugal international Sousa has been appointed as QPR's new manager following last month's sacking of Iain Dowie.
Sousa has been working with the Portugal national team and the Loftus Road position is his first job in club football.
He is looking forward to managing the Championship side and says chairman Flavio Briatore has not demanded immediate promotion to the Premier League.
Solid
"No, he doesn't tell me anything about that," Sousa told Sky Sports News when asked if his target is to secure top-flight football this term.
"He doesn't put pressure on me, not for this season and not for next season.
"The project is to be solid because when you go into the Premier League you have to be so solid so you can remain in the Premier League. This is the most important."
The ex-Benfica and Juventus midfielder also insists he has control over team affairs amid rumours that Briatore has previously had a hand in picking the team.
He added: "I'm in charge. I have all the respect for everyone, but I have free ideas and free decisions."
Sousa is also hoping he can eventually clinch Premier League football for QPR in order to come up against Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari after the pair worked together with Portugal.
"I will fight for that," he continued. "If I win more than the others I will be in the Premier League and I will play against him.
"Of course I want to be at that level, but I know the reality. Dreaming is good and I like to dream - Sky
Sousa Talks to The Players: Summary of His Talk (Brief Ainsworth Talk)...Sousa Career Profile
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Visit and post on the QPR Report Messageboard.... Join with those who've already installed on their computer the QPR Report Widget!
- For QPR World Subscribers: Hear Sousa Comments as he meets The Players...Or can read a summary/assessment of what Sousa said on Vital Football QPR
Portugo.net - Player profile: Paulo Sousa
Full name: Paulo Manuel Carvalho Sousa
Position: Midfielder
Date of Birth: 30 August 1970
Birthplace: Viseu, Portugal
Paulo Sousa is without doubt one of the most celebrated and highly regarded Portuguese footballers in the modern game. A member of the “Golden Generation”, Sousa was a classic defensive midfielder, hunting down every ball and possessing the ability to provide precision passes to his team-mates anywhere on the field.
Injuries prematurely ended his illustrious career, but not before he claimed a hatful of titles and left behind a legacy most players can only dream of.
Paulo Sousa started his career in Benfica’s youth academy. Seasoned observers soon noted the young Sousa possessed immense determination and talent and was already laying down the groundwork for a great future. The midfielder was selected for Portugal’s U20 squad and participated in the World Youth Championships held in Saudi Arabia in 1989. Portugal went on to win two consecutive youth titles at this level.
Benfica triumph
With a world title under his belt, Paulo Sousa returned to Benfica and was thrown into the starting XI without question, making 20 appearances and scoring one goal. The following season saw the player cement his place as Benfica won the championship with Sousa lining up alongside the likes of Rui Costa and Paulo Future. Sousa added another trophy in the 1992/93 season as Benfica claimed the Portuguese Cup.
The end of that season would see Paulo Sousa’s career with Benfica come to an acrimonious end. The player sensationally left the club citing unpaid salary. The accusation allowed the player to break his contract with the Lisbon club and move to Benfica’s fiercest rivals, Sporting. But Sousa stayed with the Lions just one season before Sporting transferred the player to Italy’s Juventus.
It would be there that the Portuguese midfielder would gain international exposure as he quickly won a place with the Turin-based club, winning the Serie A title, Italian Cup and Italian Super Cup in his first year with the club. The coveted Champions League title followed in 1996.
Amazingly, Juventus transferred the player to German side Borussia Dortmund after only two seasons. It was suggested that the Italian club decided to sell Paulo Sousa believing that the player would not be able to perform at the highest level after sustaining and masking injuries.
Champions League double
They say revenge is a dish best served cold, and that would be the case as Paulo Sousa again played a major role in lifting the Champions League crown in his first season with Dortmund. The supreme irony of the situation was not lost on Portuguese football fans as the German club won its first European title in 1997 defeating none other than Juventus 3-1 in the final.
That same year Dortmund also won the Intercontinental Cup but Sousa then fell out of favour with coach Nevio Scala and the club decided to loan the player back to Italy, this time to Inter Milan. After figuring in 11 matches, Inter decided to make the transfer permanent and purchased the player’s contract. However, injuries were taking their toll on the player and a brief loan spell at Parma interspersed the sparing appearances for Inter.
With injuries now plaguing his career, unsuccessful attempts to prolong his playing days at Panathinaikos in Greece and Espanyol in Spain brought a tepid end to a brilliant career. Nonetheless, Paulo Sousa will always be remembered as a classy ball winner which many Portuguese youngsters model themselves on today.
International career
Paulo Sousa made a total of 51 appearances for Portugal. He was a staple in the midfield and helped raise the profile of the national team in Euro 1996 and Euro 2000 where Portugal left a good impression.
He was also a member of the under-achieving squad that went to the World Cup in 2002, although many believe Sousa, whose career had already been blighted by injury at this point, was selected out of respect for his club career rather than his then diminished ability. Nonetheless, as with his club career, a somewhat ignominious end did nothing to take the sheen of the wonderful service provided to his country.
by Marco Pereira (01/02/2008)
CLUB APPEARANCES* GOALS
Benfica 89 4
Sporting 31 2
Juventus 54 1
Borussia Dortmund 27 1
Inter Milan 20 0
Parma 8 0
Panathinaikos 10 0
Espanyol 9 0
PORTUGAL 51 0
* League only - Portugoal.net
Visit and post on the QPR Report Messageboard.... Join with those who've already installed on their computer the QPR Report Widget!
- For QPR World Subscribers: Hear Sousa Comments as he meets The Players...Or can read a summary/assessment of what Sousa said on Vital Football QPR
Portugo.net - Player profile: Paulo Sousa
Full name: Paulo Manuel Carvalho Sousa
Position: Midfielder
Date of Birth: 30 August 1970
Birthplace: Viseu, Portugal
Paulo Sousa is without doubt one of the most celebrated and highly regarded Portuguese footballers in the modern game. A member of the “Golden Generation”, Sousa was a classic defensive midfielder, hunting down every ball and possessing the ability to provide precision passes to his team-mates anywhere on the field.
Injuries prematurely ended his illustrious career, but not before he claimed a hatful of titles and left behind a legacy most players can only dream of.
Paulo Sousa started his career in Benfica’s youth academy. Seasoned observers soon noted the young Sousa possessed immense determination and talent and was already laying down the groundwork for a great future. The midfielder was selected for Portugal’s U20 squad and participated in the World Youth Championships held in Saudi Arabia in 1989. Portugal went on to win two consecutive youth titles at this level.
Benfica triumph
With a world title under his belt, Paulo Sousa returned to Benfica and was thrown into the starting XI without question, making 20 appearances and scoring one goal. The following season saw the player cement his place as Benfica won the championship with Sousa lining up alongside the likes of Rui Costa and Paulo Future. Sousa added another trophy in the 1992/93 season as Benfica claimed the Portuguese Cup.
The end of that season would see Paulo Sousa’s career with Benfica come to an acrimonious end. The player sensationally left the club citing unpaid salary. The accusation allowed the player to break his contract with the Lisbon club and move to Benfica’s fiercest rivals, Sporting. But Sousa stayed with the Lions just one season before Sporting transferred the player to Italy’s Juventus.
It would be there that the Portuguese midfielder would gain international exposure as he quickly won a place with the Turin-based club, winning the Serie A title, Italian Cup and Italian Super Cup in his first year with the club. The coveted Champions League title followed in 1996.
Amazingly, Juventus transferred the player to German side Borussia Dortmund after only two seasons. It was suggested that the Italian club decided to sell Paulo Sousa believing that the player would not be able to perform at the highest level after sustaining and masking injuries.
Champions League double
They say revenge is a dish best served cold, and that would be the case as Paulo Sousa again played a major role in lifting the Champions League crown in his first season with Dortmund. The supreme irony of the situation was not lost on Portuguese football fans as the German club won its first European title in 1997 defeating none other than Juventus 3-1 in the final.
That same year Dortmund also won the Intercontinental Cup but Sousa then fell out of favour with coach Nevio Scala and the club decided to loan the player back to Italy, this time to Inter Milan. After figuring in 11 matches, Inter decided to make the transfer permanent and purchased the player’s contract. However, injuries were taking their toll on the player and a brief loan spell at Parma interspersed the sparing appearances for Inter.
With injuries now plaguing his career, unsuccessful attempts to prolong his playing days at Panathinaikos in Greece and Espanyol in Spain brought a tepid end to a brilliant career. Nonetheless, Paulo Sousa will always be remembered as a classy ball winner which many Portuguese youngsters model themselves on today.
International career
Paulo Sousa made a total of 51 appearances for Portugal. He was a staple in the midfield and helped raise the profile of the national team in Euro 1996 and Euro 2000 where Portugal left a good impression.
He was also a member of the under-achieving squad that went to the World Cup in 2002, although many believe Sousa, whose career had already been blighted by injury at this point, was selected out of respect for his club career rather than his then diminished ability. Nonetheless, as with his club career, a somewhat ignominious end did nothing to take the sheen of the wonderful service provided to his country.
by Marco Pereira (01/02/2008)
CLUB APPEARANCES* GOALS
Benfica 89 4
Sporting 31 2
Juventus 54 1
Borussia Dortmund 27 1
Inter Milan 20 0
Parma 8 0
Panathinaikos 10 0
Espanyol 9 0
PORTUGAL 51 0
* League only - Portugoal.net
QPR's New Assistant Coach: Bruno Oliveira
Top 12 Playmakers - Including Stan Bowles
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- One of the Twelve: Stan Bowles (who's mischracterized; he could tackle). Stan Bowles in QPR Action [Missing from this list: Tony Currie]
Daily Mail/Lee Clayton - From Hoddle and Brooking to Platini and Zidane: Sportsmail's top 12 playmakers that made the game beautiful
- The elegant, strolling midfielder died when Patrick Vieira and his type came along and crushed them under foot.
Playmakers were replaced by athletic monsters, with huge strides who trampled all over the pretty creative types.
In control: England's Carrick impressed against Germany
Michael Carrick's impressive strolling display in Berlin was a flashback, a sign that passers may still have a place in the modern game.
Sportsmail online went all misty-eyed at watching Carrick's gliding display.
So here's a few more from the archive; the old-fashioned No 10's, the fancy dans who couldn't tackle their granny, but who could pass around corners and make the play.
GLENN HODDLE
Top technique: Glenn Hoddle hits a flying volley for Spurs
Darling of Tottenham (until he became their manager), because of his stunning free kicks and his range of passing with both feet. A beautiful footballer, known also for his stunning goals. We all remember the chip over Steve Sherwood in the Watford goal.
TREVOR BROOKING
One-club hero: West Ham legend Trevor Brooking
Elegant West Ham playmaker, who spent his entire career at one club. Won the FA Cup in 1980 with a diving (falling) header. Rival to Hoddle in the England shirt, where he also scored important goals, including the one that stuck in between post and bar in Budapest's Nep Stadium. Terrific balance.
STAN BOWLES
Enlarge Cocksure: QPR's Stan Bowles strides confidently away from the goalmouth after scoring against Manchester United
The Hoddle of QPR, but he enjoyed life in the West End of London a little too much. Could change a game with a pass, or a goal and had the best sideburns in the league.
ALAN HUDSON
Top touch: Alan Hudson keeps the ball away from Arsenal's George Graham
Another West London socialite, who only played twice for England despite his match-winning form for Chelsea. He was the master creator for Peter Osgood.
LIAM BRADY
Sweet left foot: Not so sure about Liam Brady's hairstyle
He was a No7 who played like a No10. Could run games with his control and movement, earning a move from Arsenal to Juventus, where he was signed to replace Michel Platini (no pressure there then). Returned to finish his career in Brooking's old boots at West Ham.
GARY McALLISTER
Dead ball specialist: McAllister curls home a free kick for Liverpool against Bradford
Brilliant taker of free kicks and corners, who became Liverpool captain after moving to Leicester from Motherwell. Would pass and shift with the best, slide through a pass and control the tempo of a game.
JAMIE REDKNAPP
Long range striker: Redknapp scores from distance for Liverpool against Wimbledon
Sportsmail columnist, so we had to include him. Spotted by Kenny Dalglish playing for Bournemouth and he signed him for £300,000 as a 17-year-old. He was Dalglish's last signing. Anyway, Redknapp soon became Liverpool captain and he too could hit a wicked free kick.
DIEGO MARADONA
Magic in his boots: Diego Maradona scores one of the greatest ever goals with his second against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final. We won't dwell on his first
A different kind of No 10 (the drug-taking kind). He could dribble and finish, as well as pass and play. He was world class. We included him because it's our list and we can.
ZICO
Samba star: Brazil legend Zico
Brazil's Maradona (almost). With Socrates, the two of them could make a grown man dribble watching their passing. Another free kick king, who scored plenty too.
MICHEL PLATINI
Strolling: Michel Platini made football look easy
The king of the playmakers. The all-conquering French midfield, that also included Jean Tigana and Alain Giresse had Platini as their leader, setting the tempo and fames and winning matches with his skill and flair.
ZINEDINE ZIDANE
Zizou magic: Zidane volleys the second goal for Real Madrid in the Champions League final against Bayer Leverkusen in 2002
Replaced Platini in French affections, scored big goals in big games (World Cups, Champions League) and then risked his place in this list by headbutting Italy's Marco Matterazzi in the World Cup final.
PAUL GASCOIGNE
On the ball: Gascoigne in full stride for Tottenham
'He's fat, he's round, he bounces round the ground...' He wasn't a traditional gliding midfielder, but let's remember 1990 when he tugged Ruud Gullit's dreadlocks and inspired England to the last four of the Italian World Cup. He could pass and dribble, hit a free kick and, for a while, was the best midfielder in Europe. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1087774/From-Hoddle-Brooking-Platini-Zidane-Sportsmails-12-playmakers-game-beautiful.html?ITO=1490
- One of the Twelve: Stan Bowles (who's mischracterized; he could tackle). Stan Bowles in QPR Action [Missing from this list: Tony Currie]
Daily Mail/Lee Clayton - From Hoddle and Brooking to Platini and Zidane: Sportsmail's top 12 playmakers that made the game beautiful
- The elegant, strolling midfielder died when Patrick Vieira and his type came along and crushed them under foot.
Playmakers were replaced by athletic monsters, with huge strides who trampled all over the pretty creative types.
In control: England's Carrick impressed against Germany
Michael Carrick's impressive strolling display in Berlin was a flashback, a sign that passers may still have a place in the modern game.
Sportsmail online went all misty-eyed at watching Carrick's gliding display.
So here's a few more from the archive; the old-fashioned No 10's, the fancy dans who couldn't tackle their granny, but who could pass around corners and make the play.
GLENN HODDLE
Top technique: Glenn Hoddle hits a flying volley for Spurs
Darling of Tottenham (until he became their manager), because of his stunning free kicks and his range of passing with both feet. A beautiful footballer, known also for his stunning goals. We all remember the chip over Steve Sherwood in the Watford goal.
TREVOR BROOKING
One-club hero: West Ham legend Trevor Brooking
Elegant West Ham playmaker, who spent his entire career at one club. Won the FA Cup in 1980 with a diving (falling) header. Rival to Hoddle in the England shirt, where he also scored important goals, including the one that stuck in between post and bar in Budapest's Nep Stadium. Terrific balance.
STAN BOWLES
Enlarge Cocksure: QPR's Stan Bowles strides confidently away from the goalmouth after scoring against Manchester United
The Hoddle of QPR, but he enjoyed life in the West End of London a little too much. Could change a game with a pass, or a goal and had the best sideburns in the league.
ALAN HUDSON
Top touch: Alan Hudson keeps the ball away from Arsenal's George Graham
Another West London socialite, who only played twice for England despite his match-winning form for Chelsea. He was the master creator for Peter Osgood.
LIAM BRADY
Sweet left foot: Not so sure about Liam Brady's hairstyle
He was a No7 who played like a No10. Could run games with his control and movement, earning a move from Arsenal to Juventus, where he was signed to replace Michel Platini (no pressure there then). Returned to finish his career in Brooking's old boots at West Ham.
GARY McALLISTER
Dead ball specialist: McAllister curls home a free kick for Liverpool against Bradford
Brilliant taker of free kicks and corners, who became Liverpool captain after moving to Leicester from Motherwell. Would pass and shift with the best, slide through a pass and control the tempo of a game.
JAMIE REDKNAPP
Long range striker: Redknapp scores from distance for Liverpool against Wimbledon
Sportsmail columnist, so we had to include him. Spotted by Kenny Dalglish playing for Bournemouth and he signed him for £300,000 as a 17-year-old. He was Dalglish's last signing. Anyway, Redknapp soon became Liverpool captain and he too could hit a wicked free kick.
DIEGO MARADONA
Magic in his boots: Diego Maradona scores one of the greatest ever goals with his second against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final. We won't dwell on his first
A different kind of No 10 (the drug-taking kind). He could dribble and finish, as well as pass and play. He was world class. We included him because it's our list and we can.
ZICO
Samba star: Brazil legend Zico
Brazil's Maradona (almost). With Socrates, the two of them could make a grown man dribble watching their passing. Another free kick king, who scored plenty too.
MICHEL PLATINI
Strolling: Michel Platini made football look easy
The king of the playmakers. The all-conquering French midfield, that also included Jean Tigana and Alain Giresse had Platini as their leader, setting the tempo and fames and winning matches with his skill and flair.
ZINEDINE ZIDANE
Zizou magic: Zidane volleys the second goal for Real Madrid in the Champions League final against Bayer Leverkusen in 2002
Replaced Platini in French affections, scored big goals in big games (World Cups, Champions League) and then risked his place in this list by headbutting Italy's Marco Matterazzi in the World Cup final.
PAUL GASCOIGNE
On the ball: Gascoigne in full stride for Tottenham
'He's fat, he's round, he bounces round the ground...' He wasn't a traditional gliding midfielder, but let's remember 1990 when he tugged Ruud Gullit's dreadlocks and inspired England to the last four of the Italian World Cup. He could pass and dribble, hit a free kick and, for a while, was the best midfielder in Europe. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1087774/From-Hoddle-Brooking-Platini-Zidane-Sportsmails-12-playmakers-game-beautiful.html?ITO=1490
Size of Championship Squads: QPR Have Smallest?...Sousa Talks to Briatore and Meets The Players
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-
This is London - Hello, I'm your new manager . . .
Queens Park Rangers manager Paulo Sousa met his players for the first time at the club's new training ground in Harlington today.
The former Portugal midfielder spoke with co-owner Flavio Briatore before addressing the players in their dining hall. This is London
Very surprising snippet, if accurate:
South Wales Echo - Steve Tucker Cardiff City in promotion contention despite their small squad
Cardiff City in promotion contention despite their small squad
IT’S official – Cardiff City have the smallest squad in the Championship.
A look at the number of players available to managers in the division shows Bluebirds boss Dave Jones has the fewest bodies at his disposal, yet City are still in a creditable sixth place in the table.
However, with a major injury crisis hitting Ninian Park the question inevitably arises: how much more time can the club keep punching above its weight?
Cardiff have just 20 players officially within their squad, with two out on loan and three in the Welsh capital from other sides, including goal-scoring ace Michael Chopra from Sunderland.
Only Queens Park Rangers, who named former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as their new first team coach yesterday, have fewer players on their books or on loan.
But they overtake the Bluebirds when players out on loan from the west London club are taken into consideration.
With a vital South Wales derby at the end of the month and a busy festive schedule the Bluebirds currently have six potential first-teamers in the treatment room.
Injuries to strikers Ross McCormack and Jay Bothroyd, midfielders Peter Whittingham, Joe Ledley, Riccy Scinmeca and Tony Capaldi mean Jones’ diminished stocks have been hit even further.
The Bluebirds travel to Plymouth on Saturday then entertain high-flying Reading on Tuesday and could yet be tempted into the loan market in a bid to bolster their numbers.
But Cardiff skipper Darren Purse believes there are positives to be taken from having such a limited number of players at the club.
“Cardiff City is a great place to be at the moment. A big part of that is down to our team spirit. It ´s fantastic here. What helps is that we’ve got such a small squad,” Purse wrote on his official website site.
“There are only about 22 pros here. Three or four of them are 18 or 19-year-old, first-year pros, but no-one ever gets left out. Everyone is fighting for places and everyone travels to games. No-one gets left behind to train on their own. It works well because we are together, the whole time.
“We socialise together a lot as well. It ´s hard at the moment with the amount of games we are playing, but we always find time.”
The Bluebirds are not the only team defying the size of their squad to keep pace at the top.
Burnley, who also saw off Chelsea in the Carling Cup last week, are in fourth place in the table despite manager Owen Coyle having a mere 24 players in his squad with one in on loan and one out on loan....
There are only about 22 pros here. Three or four of them are 18 or 19-year-old, first-year pros, but no-one ever gets left out. Everyone is fighting for places and everyone travels to games. No-one gets left behind to train on their own. It works well because we are together, the whole time.
It is perhaps Birmingham who provide the biggest surprise.
During the summer it seemed manager Alex McLeish was signing up half the players in Britain as he looked to secure promotion.
The snaffling of Marcus Bent from under the noses of Cardiff was a case in point as Birmingham tied up an impressive roster of striking talent.
Indeed McLeish’s side now sit in second place in the table, but surprisingly they have only the 19th biggest squad in the Championship.
McLeish has just 22 players in his squad, plus two currently on loan.
But, unsurprisingly, the clubs with the Championship’s two biggest squad are well positioned in the top three.
Wolves, six points clear at the top, have the division’s second biggest squad, and boss Mick McCarthy has 32 pros at his disposal, currently more than anyone else.
Reading, who are third, have the biggest squad in numbers in the whole Championship with boss Steve Coppell having 28 players to chose from, while the Royals have an incredible further 12 pros out on loan at other clubs.
But, on the whole in the table, so far, a number of sides are seemingly over-achieving or under-achieving in relation to the number of players they have in their squads.
The operative phrase within that is, of course, so far. As the season wears on and injuries and suspensions start to kick-in further, it is the players waiting in the wings that should make a big difference.
In the end the argument boils down to the fact of which does one value more: quality or quantity?
For some in the Championship on that front it seems to be a case of having one’s cake and eating it.
When Wolves beat Cardiff at the start of this month, highly-rated Wales international Sam Vokes did not even make the 16, a luxury the majority of mangers in the division can only dream of.
What seems obvious is that from a Cardiff City perspective, as recent mishaps have proven, the squad the club is running with now is way too small.
It is a problem Jones has had to try to work around in the past with little success.
How often in recent campaigns have City flattered to deceive with decent runs, a brush with the promotion places, only to fade away when the going gets tough?
It is no exaggeration to say Jones is currently performing miracles with the smallest squad in the Championship
The big question is as injuries take their toll can he possibly keep things going over the rest of a gruelling season? Wales on Line
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
-
This is London - Hello, I'm your new manager . . .
Queens Park Rangers manager Paulo Sousa met his players for the first time at the club's new training ground in Harlington today.
The former Portugal midfielder spoke with co-owner Flavio Briatore before addressing the players in their dining hall. This is London
Very surprising snippet, if accurate:
South Wales Echo - Steve Tucker Cardiff City in promotion contention despite their small squad
Cardiff City in promotion contention despite their small squad
IT’S official – Cardiff City have the smallest squad in the Championship.
A look at the number of players available to managers in the division shows Bluebirds boss Dave Jones has the fewest bodies at his disposal, yet City are still in a creditable sixth place in the table.
However, with a major injury crisis hitting Ninian Park the question inevitably arises: how much more time can the club keep punching above its weight?
Cardiff have just 20 players officially within their squad, with two out on loan and three in the Welsh capital from other sides, including goal-scoring ace Michael Chopra from Sunderland.
Only Queens Park Rangers, who named former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as their new first team coach yesterday, have fewer players on their books or on loan.
But they overtake the Bluebirds when players out on loan from the west London club are taken into consideration.
With a vital South Wales derby at the end of the month and a busy festive schedule the Bluebirds currently have six potential first-teamers in the treatment room.
Injuries to strikers Ross McCormack and Jay Bothroyd, midfielders Peter Whittingham, Joe Ledley, Riccy Scinmeca and Tony Capaldi mean Jones’ diminished stocks have been hit even further.
The Bluebirds travel to Plymouth on Saturday then entertain high-flying Reading on Tuesday and could yet be tempted into the loan market in a bid to bolster their numbers.
But Cardiff skipper Darren Purse believes there are positives to be taken from having such a limited number of players at the club.
“Cardiff City is a great place to be at the moment. A big part of that is down to our team spirit. It ´s fantastic here. What helps is that we’ve got such a small squad,” Purse wrote on his official website site.
“There are only about 22 pros here. Three or four of them are 18 or 19-year-old, first-year pros, but no-one ever gets left out. Everyone is fighting for places and everyone travels to games. No-one gets left behind to train on their own. It works well because we are together, the whole time.
“We socialise together a lot as well. It ´s hard at the moment with the amount of games we are playing, but we always find time.”
The Bluebirds are not the only team defying the size of their squad to keep pace at the top.
Burnley, who also saw off Chelsea in the Carling Cup last week, are in fourth place in the table despite manager Owen Coyle having a mere 24 players in his squad with one in on loan and one out on loan....
There are only about 22 pros here. Three or four of them are 18 or 19-year-old, first-year pros, but no-one ever gets left out. Everyone is fighting for places and everyone travels to games. No-one gets left behind to train on their own. It works well because we are together, the whole time.
It is perhaps Birmingham who provide the biggest surprise.
During the summer it seemed manager Alex McLeish was signing up half the players in Britain as he looked to secure promotion.
The snaffling of Marcus Bent from under the noses of Cardiff was a case in point as Birmingham tied up an impressive roster of striking talent.
Indeed McLeish’s side now sit in second place in the table, but surprisingly they have only the 19th biggest squad in the Championship.
McLeish has just 22 players in his squad, plus two currently on loan.
But, unsurprisingly, the clubs with the Championship’s two biggest squad are well positioned in the top three.
Wolves, six points clear at the top, have the division’s second biggest squad, and boss Mick McCarthy has 32 pros at his disposal, currently more than anyone else.
Reading, who are third, have the biggest squad in numbers in the whole Championship with boss Steve Coppell having 28 players to chose from, while the Royals have an incredible further 12 pros out on loan at other clubs.
But, on the whole in the table, so far, a number of sides are seemingly over-achieving or under-achieving in relation to the number of players they have in their squads.
The operative phrase within that is, of course, so far. As the season wears on and injuries and suspensions start to kick-in further, it is the players waiting in the wings that should make a big difference.
In the end the argument boils down to the fact of which does one value more: quality or quantity?
For some in the Championship on that front it seems to be a case of having one’s cake and eating it.
When Wolves beat Cardiff at the start of this month, highly-rated Wales international Sam Vokes did not even make the 16, a luxury the majority of mangers in the division can only dream of.
What seems obvious is that from a Cardiff City perspective, as recent mishaps have proven, the squad the club is running with now is way too small.
It is a problem Jones has had to try to work around in the past with little success.
How often in recent campaigns have City flattered to deceive with decent runs, a brush with the promotion places, only to fade away when the going gets tough?
It is no exaggeration to say Jones is currently performing miracles with the smallest squad in the Championship
The big question is as injuries take their toll can he possibly keep things going over the rest of a gruelling season? Wales on Line
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Helguson Finally Joins QPR on Loan and an Assessment of Helguson
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Bolton's Icelandic Forward, Heidar Helguson joins QPR on loan till the end of January. Because of injuries, he's played once this season in the League.
QPR Official Site - EXCLUSIVE: HEIDAR'S A HOOP
Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the arrival of Bolton Wanderers' striker Heidar Helguson, on an emergency loan deal.
The 31 year-old has put pen to paper on a deal until the end of January and goes straight in to the R's squad for the Coca Cola Championship fixture against his former Club, Watford, on Saturday.
Helguson, who has made over 40 appearances for his native Iceland, scored the only goal of the game for his country against Malta last night (Wednesday).
QPR
Dave McIntyre - BBC606 re Helguson "Right man, unfortunate timing"
- A fully-fit Heidar Helguson will be an asset for QPR – it’s just a shame for them that his arrival follows news that Akos Buzsaky will miss the rest of the season.
-One player doesn’t make a team, but it’s hard to see how Rangers can sustain a genuine promotion bid without Buzsaky.
-The possible signing of Ben Watson from Crystal Palace in January would be a boost, and it's now very important Rangers get that deal done.
- Watson is no Buzsaky, but he is an excellent attacking midfielder at Championship level and at 23, has lots of potential.
- His signing might previously have been seen as at best a bonus and, at worst, pointless. But it's now a necessity.
- Buzsaky is QPR's best player, despite the hype surrounding some of the summer signings, and he was close to getting back to his best following an ankle problem.
- The worry now has to be whether he can rediscover his best form after two nasty injuries in quick succession.
- If he can, he will be a major player for Rangers next season and would comfortably manage the step up in class were they to get promoted.
- Helguson has struggled to make an impact in the top division but has shown he is at least a very good Championship forward.
- If he gets his sharpness back, he’ll be a far more sensible signing than the vastly overpriced Caleb Folan or Michael Chopra would have been.
- He has been on Rangers’ shortlist of possible signings for some time and Rangers have turned to him after failing with bids to sign Chopra from Sunderland and Folan from Hull.
- Doubts about Helguson’s long-term fitness led to his proposed move from Bolton stalling last week, but talks to try and salvage the deal resulted in an agreement being reached.
- Helguson is a very good and clever player, similar in some ways to Kevin Gallen but stronger in the air and a better finisher.
- He works hard, holds the ball up well, can score goals and brings others into the game.
That’s exactly the kind of forward Rangers have needed; a link man who can bring the best out of their attacking midfield players – especially Buzsaky – while not only providing a physical presence alongside someone like Blackstock, but also weighing in with goals of their own.
Helguson, if he gets fit and stays fit, can do all that. It’s just a pity for Rangers that Buzsaky isn’t going to be involved. BBC606
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Bolton's Icelandic Forward, Heidar Helguson joins QPR on loan till the end of January. Because of injuries, he's played once this season in the League.
QPR Official Site - EXCLUSIVE: HEIDAR'S A HOOP
Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the arrival of Bolton Wanderers' striker Heidar Helguson, on an emergency loan deal.
The 31 year-old has put pen to paper on a deal until the end of January and goes straight in to the R's squad for the Coca Cola Championship fixture against his former Club, Watford, on Saturday.
Helguson, who has made over 40 appearances for his native Iceland, scored the only goal of the game for his country against Malta last night (Wednesday).
QPR
Dave McIntyre - BBC606 re Helguson "Right man, unfortunate timing"
- A fully-fit Heidar Helguson will be an asset for QPR – it’s just a shame for them that his arrival follows news that Akos Buzsaky will miss the rest of the season.
-One player doesn’t make a team, but it’s hard to see how Rangers can sustain a genuine promotion bid without Buzsaky.
-The possible signing of Ben Watson from Crystal Palace in January would be a boost, and it's now very important Rangers get that deal done.
- Watson is no Buzsaky, but he is an excellent attacking midfielder at Championship level and at 23, has lots of potential.
- His signing might previously have been seen as at best a bonus and, at worst, pointless. But it's now a necessity.
- Buzsaky is QPR's best player, despite the hype surrounding some of the summer signings, and he was close to getting back to his best following an ankle problem.
- The worry now has to be whether he can rediscover his best form after two nasty injuries in quick succession.
- If he can, he will be a major player for Rangers next season and would comfortably manage the step up in class were they to get promoted.
- Helguson has struggled to make an impact in the top division but has shown he is at least a very good Championship forward.
- If he gets his sharpness back, he’ll be a far more sensible signing than the vastly overpriced Caleb Folan or Michael Chopra would have been.
- He has been on Rangers’ shortlist of possible signings for some time and Rangers have turned to him after failing with bids to sign Chopra from Sunderland and Folan from Hull.
- Doubts about Helguson’s long-term fitness led to his proposed move from Bolton stalling last week, but talks to try and salvage the deal resulted in an agreement being reached.
- Helguson is a very good and clever player, similar in some ways to Kevin Gallen but stronger in the air and a better finisher.
- He works hard, holds the ball up well, can score goals and brings others into the game.
That’s exactly the kind of forward Rangers have needed; a link man who can bring the best out of their attacking midfield players – especially Buzsaky – while not only providing a physical presence alongside someone like Blackstock, but also weighing in with goals of their own.
Helguson, if he gets fit and stays fit, can do all that. It’s just a pity for Rangers that Buzsaky isn’t going to be involved. BBC606
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Departure of Assistant Manager, Tim Flowers - With Thanks
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While Iain Dowie was strikingly terminated without the traditional thanks and good luck," Tim Flowers gets the thanks.
QPR Offiicl Site - FLOWERS DEPARTS
Assistant Manager Tim Flowers has left Queens Park Rangers Football Club with immediate effect.
The 41 year-old arrived at Rangers in the summer as part of former boss Iain Dowie's new-look backroom staff.
However, following Dowie's dismissal and the subsequent arrival of Paulo Sousa as First Team Coach, Flowers has left the Club.
We would like to place on the record our thanks to Tim and wish him every success for the future." QPR Official Site
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While Iain Dowie was strikingly terminated without the traditional thanks and good luck," Tim Flowers gets the thanks.
QPR Offiicl Site - FLOWERS DEPARTS
Assistant Manager Tim Flowers has left Queens Park Rangers Football Club with immediate effect.
The 41 year-old arrived at Rangers in the summer as part of former boss Iain Dowie's new-look backroom staff.
However, following Dowie's dismissal and the subsequent arrival of Paulo Sousa as First Team Coach, Flowers has left the Club.
We would like to place on the record our thanks to Tim and wish him every success for the future." QPR Official Site
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Raving About Balanta
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Bucks Free Press - 'Wycombe fans are in for a treat'
- WANDERERS legend Steve Brown has told Blues fans they are in for a real treat with the capture of Angelo Balanta from QPR on a two-month loan.
- Brown, who is the youth team coach at Loftus Road, worked with the 18-year-old Colombian before he was fast-tracked into the Hoops’ first team squad and says he is a one-off.
- Brown said: “As soon as I saw him I could see that he was one of those few players that only comes around once every so often.
- “He is one of those kids that breaks the mould and I was excited by him the first time I saw him.
- “He has got so much talent. The Wycombe fans are in for a real treat in the two months that he is there.
- “I am just glad that the Wycombe fans have got the opportunity to watch someone like him because he will have them on the edge of their seats. He can score goals and he can create goals.”
- Balanta gave Wycombe fans a tantalising glimpse of his skills in a stunning introduction to the Adams Park crowd during Saturday’s 1-0 win over promotion rivals Bradford City.
- Introduced as a half time substitute, he toyed with the Bantams setting up Lewis Hunt’s winner and going close to a goal himself.
- Boss Peter Taylor said: “We’re delighted we’ve got him. He is a terrific player. He did brilliantly for the goal and his awareness is different class. He is a strong boy who doesn’t panic and hopefully he will keep doing that for us.
- “I really respect QPR for letting him come out on loan. Sometimes you keep somebody in the building but they are helping him progress by letting him come here and play first team football.
- “It’s good for him and hopefully brilliant for us. I would love to keep him for about five years. He’s a lovely lad who is desperate to play first team football.
- “I’ve only worked with him for two days in training and after just two days with him I think we know we are dealing with a really good player here.”
- For a full interview with Balanta, see tomorrow's Bucks Free Press. Bucks Free Press
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard]
Bucks Free Press - 'Wycombe fans are in for a treat'
- WANDERERS legend Steve Brown has told Blues fans they are in for a real treat with the capture of Angelo Balanta from QPR on a two-month loan.
- Brown, who is the youth team coach at Loftus Road, worked with the 18-year-old Colombian before he was fast-tracked into the Hoops’ first team squad and says he is a one-off.
- Brown said: “As soon as I saw him I could see that he was one of those few players that only comes around once every so often.
- “He is one of those kids that breaks the mould and I was excited by him the first time I saw him.
- “He has got so much talent. The Wycombe fans are in for a real treat in the two months that he is there.
- “I am just glad that the Wycombe fans have got the opportunity to watch someone like him because he will have them on the edge of their seats. He can score goals and he can create goals.”
- Balanta gave Wycombe fans a tantalising glimpse of his skills in a stunning introduction to the Adams Park crowd during Saturday’s 1-0 win over promotion rivals Bradford City.
- Introduced as a half time substitute, he toyed with the Bantams setting up Lewis Hunt’s winner and going close to a goal himself.
- Boss Peter Taylor said: “We’re delighted we’ve got him. He is a terrific player. He did brilliantly for the goal and his awareness is different class. He is a strong boy who doesn’t panic and hopefully he will keep doing that for us.
- “I really respect QPR for letting him come out on loan. Sometimes you keep somebody in the building but they are helping him progress by letting him come here and play first team football.
- “It’s good for him and hopefully brilliant for us. I would love to keep him for about five years. He’s a lovely lad who is desperate to play first team football.
- “I’ve only worked with him for two days in training and after just two days with him I think we know we are dealing with a really good player here.”
- For a full interview with Balanta, see tomorrow's Bucks Free Press. Bucks Free Press
[Visit the QPR Report Messageboard]
Helguson Today?...Sousa Snippets...Flashback: "The Fall and Fall of QPR"...Recalling Leeds 6 QPR 1...Two Ex-QPR Birthdays
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Mirror - Bolton striker Heidar Helguson to join QPR on loan
Bolton striker Heidar Helguson will sign for QPR today in a loan that could lead to a £1million switch.
The Icelandic hitman's on-off move to London was officially sorted out last night and he is joining until January in an attempt to prove he is free of injury worries.
Helguson's arrival will alert Championship rivals Wolves, who are willing to pay £1.5m for Rangers' top scorer Dexter Blackstock." Mirror
From BBC Gossip
- QPR are set to sign Bolton striker Heidar Helguson in a loan move that could lead to a permanent £1m switch. (Daily Mirror)
- QPR owner Flavio Briatore will continue to have a hands-on approach to picking the team after appointing Paulo Sousa as first team coach. (Daily Mirror)
- Former Portugal international Sousa has been told he will have money to spend in the January transfer window, and that he is in sole charge of first team affairs. (The Times)
- Sousa was recommended to QPR by Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari, and he also took advice from the Brazilian before accepting the Loftus Road job. (The Times)
- Briatore wanted to give the QPR job to caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth but co-owner Bernie Ecclestone, vice-chairman Amit Bhatia and sporting director Gianni Paldini convinced him that Ainsworth was too big a gamble. (The Times)
- Former Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini, who is learning English in London, turned down the QPR job because he did not want to work in the Championship. (The Times) BBC Gossip
Two ex-QPR Birthdays today:
Karl Elsey, who turns 50 today. He played a few games under Tommy Docherty (profile). Gary Cooper (Born November 20, 1965). Former QPR England Youth Player under Terry Venables.
Seven Year Flashback: From the BBC
BBC - November 20, 2001 - The fall and fall of QPR
QPR fan Ian Pyke reveals the heartache of watching his beloved club plummet towards obscurty.
- QPR's season of suffering hit its lowest point with the 4-0 FA Cup first round exit at Swansea City.
- It meant support for the team from long-suffering supporters came in the shape of barracking for players and some club officials at every opportunity.
- This may seem an unusual method of backing - but it is an understandable reaction from fans who have suffered three cup exits and a series of poor performances in recent weeks.
- It was a season of high expectations at Loftus Road under manager Ian Holloway, despite relegation in the previous campaign.
- A home victory against Stoke on the opening day of the season seemed to support the optimism, especially as it was followed by an away win at Bury.
-If you've followed QPR over recent years, you will know an away win is rarer than an Englishman playing for Chelsea.
-Obviously the league table and the number of free Saturdays until the end of the season show the picture has changed.
- If you allow me to reminisce, it was only eight years ago QPR finished as top London club.
- And although no one expected us to remain in this position forever, we didn't expect to now have only Leyton Orient below us.
- QPR was regarded by as many as a model of how to run a relatively small club.
- Alan Curbishley was once quoted as saying "I want Charlton to be the new QPR" when they were restructuring their club and looking to return to The Valley.
- Charlton announced a profit this week, and look to have established themselves as a Premiership club.
- So QPR now aspire to be like Charlton.
- The fall and fall of QPR can mainly be attributed to the previous club owners and their lack of foresight.
- When we parted company with the Premiership, we had a wage bill that was unsustainable in the First Division.
- Not only did we fail to reduce this, we went on to sign players with limited ability on relatively big contracts.
Although some may say we gambled to get back into the top flight, I would argue the real gamble should have taken place a year earlier when were still there.
- Last summer saw almost 30 players leave the club and QPR go into admistration - and yet this summer the sales of season tickets increased.
- I have on three occasions had to queue at 7am to get tickets for away games. This is a measure of QPR's fan base and the club's potential.
- So my final word is about the fans.
Yes we have voiced our opinions against individuals recently, but after two relegations and being dumped out of the FA Cup in the first round for the first time in almost 50 years, we have had cause to complain.
OK enough moaning - a home win against Swindon at Loftus Road on Wednesday and a win at Brentford will make things look better.
I can dream. And this is why we still have a healthy home attendance and we queue for tickets for away games.
We all dream of better times.
Sadly, at the moment we are not too fond of reality. BBC
Meanwhile, four Years Ago, November 20, 2004: Leeds 6 QPR 1 (the match when a famously-ill Ian Holloway was "forced" to attend the game and then ended up in the hospital
QPR's Team that day: Day, Bignot, Shittu, Santos, Rose (Padula 11), Ainsworth, Bircham, Gallen, McLeod (Cook 45), Furlong, Cureton (Bean 45). Subs Not Used: Branco, Miller. Match Report
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Mirror - Bolton striker Heidar Helguson to join QPR on loan
Bolton striker Heidar Helguson will sign for QPR today in a loan that could lead to a £1million switch.
The Icelandic hitman's on-off move to London was officially sorted out last night and he is joining until January in an attempt to prove he is free of injury worries.
Helguson's arrival will alert Championship rivals Wolves, who are willing to pay £1.5m for Rangers' top scorer Dexter Blackstock." Mirror
From BBC Gossip
- QPR are set to sign Bolton striker Heidar Helguson in a loan move that could lead to a permanent £1m switch. (Daily Mirror)
- QPR owner Flavio Briatore will continue to have a hands-on approach to picking the team after appointing Paulo Sousa as first team coach. (Daily Mirror)
- Former Portugal international Sousa has been told he will have money to spend in the January transfer window, and that he is in sole charge of first team affairs. (The Times)
- Sousa was recommended to QPR by Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari, and he also took advice from the Brazilian before accepting the Loftus Road job. (The Times)
- Briatore wanted to give the QPR job to caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth but co-owner Bernie Ecclestone, vice-chairman Amit Bhatia and sporting director Gianni Paldini convinced him that Ainsworth was too big a gamble. (The Times)
- Former Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini, who is learning English in London, turned down the QPR job because he did not want to work in the Championship. (The Times) BBC Gossip
Two ex-QPR Birthdays today:
Karl Elsey, who turns 50 today. He played a few games under Tommy Docherty (profile). Gary Cooper (Born November 20, 1965). Former QPR England Youth Player under Terry Venables.
Seven Year Flashback: From the BBC
BBC - November 20, 2001 - The fall and fall of QPR
QPR fan Ian Pyke reveals the heartache of watching his beloved club plummet towards obscurty.
- QPR's season of suffering hit its lowest point with the 4-0 FA Cup first round exit at Swansea City.
- It meant support for the team from long-suffering supporters came in the shape of barracking for players and some club officials at every opportunity.
- This may seem an unusual method of backing - but it is an understandable reaction from fans who have suffered three cup exits and a series of poor performances in recent weeks.
- It was a season of high expectations at Loftus Road under manager Ian Holloway, despite relegation in the previous campaign.
- A home victory against Stoke on the opening day of the season seemed to support the optimism, especially as it was followed by an away win at Bury.
-If you've followed QPR over recent years, you will know an away win is rarer than an Englishman playing for Chelsea.
-Obviously the league table and the number of free Saturdays until the end of the season show the picture has changed.
- If you allow me to reminisce, it was only eight years ago QPR finished as top London club.
- And although no one expected us to remain in this position forever, we didn't expect to now have only Leyton Orient below us.
- QPR was regarded by as many as a model of how to run a relatively small club.
- Alan Curbishley was once quoted as saying "I want Charlton to be the new QPR" when they were restructuring their club and looking to return to The Valley.
- Charlton announced a profit this week, and look to have established themselves as a Premiership club.
- So QPR now aspire to be like Charlton.
- The fall and fall of QPR can mainly be attributed to the previous club owners and their lack of foresight.
- When we parted company with the Premiership, we had a wage bill that was unsustainable in the First Division.
- Not only did we fail to reduce this, we went on to sign players with limited ability on relatively big contracts.
Although some may say we gambled to get back into the top flight, I would argue the real gamble should have taken place a year earlier when were still there.
- Last summer saw almost 30 players leave the club and QPR go into admistration - and yet this summer the sales of season tickets increased.
- I have on three occasions had to queue at 7am to get tickets for away games. This is a measure of QPR's fan base and the club's potential.
- So my final word is about the fans.
Yes we have voiced our opinions against individuals recently, but after two relegations and being dumped out of the FA Cup in the first round for the first time in almost 50 years, we have had cause to complain.
OK enough moaning - a home win against Swindon at Loftus Road on Wednesday and a win at Brentford will make things look better.
I can dream. And this is why we still have a healthy home attendance and we queue for tickets for away games.
We all dream of better times.
Sadly, at the moment we are not too fond of reality. BBC
Meanwhile, four Years Ago, November 20, 2004: Leeds 6 QPR 1 (the match when a famously-ill Ian Holloway was "forced" to attend the game and then ended up in the hospital
QPR's Team that day: Day, Bignot, Shittu, Santos, Rose (Padula 11), Ainsworth, Bircham, Gallen, McLeod (Cook 45), Furlong, Cureton (Bean 45). Subs Not Used: Branco, Miller. Match Report
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
New Caliendo Statement Regarding Briatore and QPR
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Antonio Caliendo Blog re Briatore - November 19, 2008
English version (posted on the blog)
I State first that I have proposition the property, united to my partners, of the prestigious Club London Queens Park Rangers sin from 2004, investing enormous sums and doing Front on time to financial every requirement during my management. To make given from the 8 August 2007 me venne delivered an offer from the Mr Flavio Briatore to signature of the Mr Brown Michel, operating in Switzerland and to today resulting to be partner of the QPR, as well as contributor in other its activity. For how much it the problematic contrattualistica, the mine legal avv.
Donald Manasse and avv. Steven Gee, are ascertaining the situation. This can say subject, that asserted to to be intervened in a situation of bankruptcy, how many pounds the signed left on the checking account of the society Queens Park Rangers? It can say if they were paid salaries to football player and depending until the last month of my management? I agree when it asserts that the “soccer in England is a business, to begin from the stadium of property that can create riches in different manners” to tal resolution we are still waiting for the permission to enter with our experts for the evaluation of it, until today denied. And ‘a business also to yield the actions of the QPR!
How much can say it packed from the transfer of my actions of the QPR from the Mr Mittal? Us can say if it is yielding further actions to other eventual buyers and to what price? Us can say when they will come paid my credits? Finally it is able the Mr. in matter deny that the QPR was gained for 90 millions and to say how much really corresponded to the signed and to my partners for the purchase of the club?
I hope that the replies not orderly will be done!
Antonio Caliendo former chairman and shareholder of the QPR
[Caliendo statement also in Italian on the blog - Antonio Caliendo Blog
News Article - Web Translation - Football, another QPR: Caliendo seeks clarification on Briatore
19 novembre 2008 alle 15:02 — Fonte: repubblica.it November 19 2008 at 15:02 - Continued face to face between Antonio Caliendo, a former chairman and shareholder of Queens Park Rangers, and Flavio Briatore on the question of ownership of the London club.
Caliendo back in this case to the office, paying a few questions: "Can you tell us when will paid my debts? Does "Flavio Briatore," who claimed to be speaking in a state of bankruptcy, how many pounds the undersigned has left the current account of the company Queens Park Rangers? Can say if they were paid salaries to players and employees until the last months of my administration? ”. (19/11/2008) (Spr) ". (19/11/2008) (spr)
CALCIO, VICENDA QPR: CALIENDO CHIEDE CHIARIMENTI A BRIATORE
Prosegue il faccia a faccia fra Antonio Caliendo, ex presidente e azionista del Queens Park Rangers, e Flavio Briatore sulla questione della proprietà del club londinese. Caliendo torna in questo caso alla carica, rivolgendo alcune domande: "Può dirci quando verranno pagati i miei crediti? Può dire" Flavio Briatore, "che ha asserito di essere intervenuto in una situazione di bancarotta, quante sterline il sottoscritto ha lasciato sul conto corrente della società Queens Park Rangers? Può dire se sono stati pagati stipendi a calciatori e dipendenti fino all'ultimo mese di mia gestione?". (19/11/2008) (Spr) Le altre notizie - Le Repubblica
And posted earlier "Caliendo Asks About His QPR Payments"
English Web Translation: Caliendo to Briatore: "When you pay me?"
CALIENDO A Briatore: WHEN PAID MY CREDIT?
Can you tell us when will paid my debts? Briatore can deny that QPR was bought for 90 million and say what he really paid myself and my associates to buy the club? I hope that answers will not wait"
. The prosecutor and former chairman and shareholder of Queens Park Rangers, Antonio Caliendo, so back with a long note on the property of another English club.
"I agree - writes Caliendo addressing Briatore - when claims that football in England is a business, starting from the stadium property that can create wealth in different ways. In that respect we are still waiting for permission to go with our experts for the evaluation of it, so far denied. It 'a business also sell shares of QPR! can say what he earned from the sale of my shares of QPR by Mr Mittal? Can you tell us if you are giving more shares to other potential buyers and at what price ?
La Repubblica.it The Repubblica.it
- See Earlier Caliendo Blog Posts re Briatore
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Antonio Caliendo Blog re Briatore - November 19, 2008
English version (posted on the blog)
I State first that I have proposition the property, united to my partners, of the prestigious Club London Queens Park Rangers sin from 2004, investing enormous sums and doing Front on time to financial every requirement during my management. To make given from the 8 August 2007 me venne delivered an offer from the Mr Flavio Briatore to signature of the Mr Brown Michel, operating in Switzerland and to today resulting to be partner of the QPR, as well as contributor in other its activity. For how much it the problematic contrattualistica, the mine legal avv.
Donald Manasse and avv. Steven Gee, are ascertaining the situation. This can say subject, that asserted to to be intervened in a situation of bankruptcy, how many pounds the signed left on the checking account of the society Queens Park Rangers? It can say if they were paid salaries to football player and depending until the last month of my management? I agree when it asserts that the “soccer in England is a business, to begin from the stadium of property that can create riches in different manners” to tal resolution we are still waiting for the permission to enter with our experts for the evaluation of it, until today denied. And ‘a business also to yield the actions of the QPR!
How much can say it packed from the transfer of my actions of the QPR from the Mr Mittal? Us can say if it is yielding further actions to other eventual buyers and to what price? Us can say when they will come paid my credits? Finally it is able the Mr. in matter deny that the QPR was gained for 90 millions and to say how much really corresponded to the signed and to my partners for the purchase of the club?
I hope that the replies not orderly will be done!
Antonio Caliendo former chairman and shareholder of the QPR
[Caliendo statement also in Italian on the blog - Antonio Caliendo Blog
News Article - Web Translation - Football, another QPR: Caliendo seeks clarification on Briatore
19 novembre 2008 alle 15:02 — Fonte: repubblica.it November 19 2008 at 15:02 - Continued face to face between Antonio Caliendo, a former chairman and shareholder of Queens Park Rangers, and Flavio Briatore on the question of ownership of the London club.
Caliendo back in this case to the office, paying a few questions: "Can you tell us when will paid my debts? Does "Flavio Briatore," who claimed to be speaking in a state of bankruptcy, how many pounds the undersigned has left the current account of the company Queens Park Rangers? Can say if they were paid salaries to players and employees until the last months of my administration? ”. (19/11/2008) (Spr) ". (19/11/2008) (spr)
CALCIO, VICENDA QPR: CALIENDO CHIEDE CHIARIMENTI A BRIATORE
Prosegue il faccia a faccia fra Antonio Caliendo, ex presidente e azionista del Queens Park Rangers, e Flavio Briatore sulla questione della proprietà del club londinese. Caliendo torna in questo caso alla carica, rivolgendo alcune domande: "Può dirci quando verranno pagati i miei crediti? Può dire" Flavio Briatore, "che ha asserito di essere intervenuto in una situazione di bancarotta, quante sterline il sottoscritto ha lasciato sul conto corrente della società Queens Park Rangers? Può dire se sono stati pagati stipendi a calciatori e dipendenti fino all'ultimo mese di mia gestione?". (19/11/2008) (Spr) Le altre notizie - Le Repubblica
And posted earlier "Caliendo Asks About His QPR Payments"
English Web Translation: Caliendo to Briatore: "When you pay me?"
CALIENDO A Briatore: WHEN PAID MY CREDIT?
Can you tell us when will paid my debts? Briatore can deny that QPR was bought for 90 million and say what he really paid myself and my associates to buy the club? I hope that answers will not wait"
. The prosecutor and former chairman and shareholder of Queens Park Rangers, Antonio Caliendo, so back with a long note on the property of another English club.
"I agree - writes Caliendo addressing Briatore - when claims that football in England is a business, starting from the stadium property that can create wealth in different ways. In that respect we are still waiting for permission to go with our experts for the evaluation of it, so far denied. It 'a business also sell shares of QPR! can say what he earned from the sale of my shares of QPR by Mr Mittal? Can you tell us if you are giving more shares to other potential buyers and at what price ?
La Repubblica.it The Repubblica.it
- See Earlier Caliendo Blog Posts re Briatore
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Sousa's QPR Appointment....Briatore's Continued Team "Involvement"?
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- Hopefully the assertions of Briatore's continued team involvement are incorrect - or at least exaggerated! Clearly, time will tell: If he remains involved, that will leak out. In the meanwhile, post your views on Sousa's appointment - or anything else - on the QPR Report Messageboard
From The Mirror/John Cross - FLAVIO SO PICKY WITH SOUSA
- Paulo Sousa was last night confirmed as QPR's new boss - but owner Flavio Briatore wants to pick the team. - Former Benfica and Juventus star Sousa was named as first-team coach at Loftus Road, as revealed in yesterday's Mirror Sport.
But QPR owner Briatore has put Sousa in charge of coaching duties rather than naming him manager because he insists on having a hands-on role in team affairs. Iain Dowie was axed as boss after objecting to Formula One tycoon Briatore's interference.
However, Briatore went for Sousa - a member of Portugal's 'Golden Generation' and an exnational team assistant coach - because he is prepared to let the owner call the shots in terms of team selection.
A club insider said: "Flavio wants to be heavily involved, thinks he can do a good job and wants a coach, rather than a manager, to work with the players he picks and signs. Mirror
The Mirror II/Derek McGovern - RESULT!: New boss Sousa will have to do as so-and-so Flavio says so
- Iain Dowie's record as QPR manager was so-so but so-so just isn't good enough when mega-rich Flavio Briatore is chairman.
- So Flavio, the old so-andso, has brought in as new manager a man named Sousa.
- Reports earlier this week that Paulo Sousa had been spotted at QPR's training ground surprised even the hardened football fan. Rangers actually train?
- Briatore knows money usually brings success, but this strategy only works if you actually spend some of it. So far the only figures that threatened to go up at Loftus Road this season were the ticket prices.
- Just 13,226 turned up on Saturday, and most of the first team were not among that number.
- Insiders believe they know what Sousa's tactics will be - exactly the same as Flavio's.
- Vc Bet offer 5-2 that Sousa is no longer in charge on the first day of next season.
- That's not the best bet in the world, but it's an awful lot better than so-so. Mirror
The Sun/Paul Jiggins - Paulo Sou right for Rangers
PAULO SOUSA has been confirmed as QPR’s new first-team coach — just as we said he would in yesterday’s SunSport.
The former Portugal midfielder, 38, last night signed a 2½-year deal at Loftus Road but can expect to be no more than a puppet in Flavio Briatore’s Rangers regime.
We told you last month that co-owner and chairman Briatore axed Iain Dowie 24 hours before last month’s clash at Reading because the Italian demanded a say in picking the team.
Midfielder Gavin Mahon admitted after the 0-0 draw with the Royals that the team Dowie selected before he was given his P45 was not the line-up that took to the field at the Madejski.
Briatore was said to be furious with Mahon for speaking to the Press after that game and the player has not started in the three Championship games since.
Caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth also refused to deny the Italian’s interference when he spoke exclusively to The Sun last Friday.
Sousa, however, is thrilled by his new appointment.
The man who had spells with Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund, said: “It is an honour to be part of this project.
“I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited.
“I have great belief in my ideas and my ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management.” The Sun
- The Times/Kaveh Solhekol - Paulo Sousa charms his way into QPR hotseat
- Queens Park Rangers are hoping that they have found the new José Mourinho after Paulo Sousa agreed to become the club's first-team coach. Sousa, who had been working as the Portugal assistant head coach, was recommended to QPR by Luiz Felipe Scolari, the Chelsea manager. The Brazilian worked with Sousa when he was in charge of Portugal and had no hesitation in recommending the 38-year-old former Juventus and Inter Milan midfield player when he was asked for his opinion.
- Sousa spoke to Scolari before deciding to move to London after the Chelsea manager told him that QPR's offer was too good to turn down. Sousa has signed a 2½-year contract worth about £20,000 a week and will be in charge of the first team for Saturday's match away to Watford.
- “He is going to be the new José Mourinho with all his flair, charm and talent,” a source at the Coca-Cola Championship club said. “Paulo got the job because he wanted it that little bit more than the rest and, unlike the others, he is up and coming. Scolari spoke warmly about his potential, and with Sousa's connections it could be a very exciting time for the club.”
- Flavio Briatore, the QPR chairman, had wanted to give the job to Gareth Ainsworth after the player-coach impressed his employers during his six games as caretaker manager, but the 2-1 defeat at home to Burnley on Saturday convinced the Italian that he needed someone with more experience. Bernie Ecclestone, the co-owner, Amit Bhatia, the vice-chairman who represents Lakshmi Mittal's 20 per cent stake in the club, and Gianni Paladini, the sporting director, convinced Briatore that appointing Ainsworth on a permanent basis would be too big a gamble if the club were serious about being promoted to the Barclays Premier League at the end of the season.
- Roberto Mancini, the former Inter coach, who is learning English in London, turned down the job because he did not want to work in the Championship. His rejection meant that QPR had to choose between Sousa and Roberto Donadoni, the former Italy coach, and the Portuguese got the job after Scolari's recommendation.
- “I believe in playing positive attacking football and I'm looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead,” Sousa said after becoming the club's eighth manager in two years.
- “I always wanted to work for a big club and I'm very excited about working for QPR.”
- Sousa has been given assurances by Briatore that he will have money to spend when the transfer window opens in January and he has also been told that he is in sole charge of first-team affairs. Briatore is a hands-on chairman and the departure last month of Iain Dowie, the manager, was caused by his refusal to pick the players that the Italian wanted in the team. Briatore was said to have had a big say in team selection when Ainsworth, who has agreed to stay as the club's player-coach, was in charge.
- Several British managers are said to have decided not to apply for the job because they were concerned that the chairman would interfere with their work.
- “Paulo has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of a new generation of coaches,” Briatore said. “He has worked with some of the best players in the world and we are very excited about having him here.”
- Sousa is unlikely to be the only new arrival at Loftus Road this week, with the club set to announce the signing of Heidar Helguson on loan from Bolton Wanderers until January. The Iceland forward failed a medical in West London last week but the deal was resurrected after QPR agreed to pay half his £16,000-a-week wages and Bolton agreed to take him back if he was injured during his loan spell. The Times
BBC - Sousa is new QPR first-team coach
- QPR have named former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as their new first-team coach.
Sousa, who was assistant coach of the Portuguese national team, has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract.
The 38-year-old played 51 times for his country and had spells with Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund.
Gareth Ainsworth, who had been in caretaker charge at Rangers, will stay on as part of Sousa's backroom team.
Sousa told QPR's website: "It is an honour to be part of this project.
"I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers.
"I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management.
"I believe in playing positive, attacking football and am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
Player/coach Ainsworth was placed at the helm by boss Flavio Briatore following the sacking of Iain Dowie in October.
Dowie was dismissed after refusing to select a team suggested to him by Briatore, who owns the west London club along with fellow Formula One magnate Bernie Ecclestone.
- Briatore had a major say in team affairs under Ainsworth, who was initially the frontrunner to land the coach's job on a permanent basis, despite a number of big names being linked with the role.
- But the search for an alternative was stepped up following Rangers' home defeat against Burnley on Saturday.
- Several British managers are understood to have stayed out of the running for the job because of the R's board's role in team selection and transfers. - Briatore described Sousa's appointment as "very good for this football club."
Briatore added: "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach.
- "He has worked with some of the world`s best players and we are excited about having him.
- "His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us."
- Sousa won the Champions League twice as a player, first with Juventus in 1996 and then Dortmund the following year.
- He also won the Serie A title with Juventus and represented Portugal at the European Championships in 1996 and 2000. BBC
INDPENDENT/Andy Sims - Sousa ready to deal with QPR's great expectations
- Paulo Sousa: 'I have great belief in my ideas and my ability, and I want to play attacking football'
- Paulo Sousa, the former Portugal international, yesterday became Queens Park Rangers' sixth manager in a little over a year when he was confirmed as their new first-team coach. Sousa follows John Gregory, Luigi De Canio and Iain Dowie, as well as caretaker managers Mick Harford and now Gareth Ainsworth, who have been dispensed with since Flavio Briatore became the chairman.
Sousa, 38, capped 51 times by his country and a Champions League-winner with Juventus in 1996 and Borussia Dortmund in 1997, has signed a two-and-a-half year contract at Loftus Road. Dowie was dismissed last month amid claims that Briatore, who is also the co-owner, wanted too much say in team selection. But Sousa, who worked under Luiz Felipe Scolari on the coaching staff of the Portuguese national team, is believed to have insisted on being in sole charge of team affairs.
"Paulo is a very good appointment," Briatore said. "I have been keeping track of his work for the last few months and he is the right man for our project. He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coaches. He has worked with some of the world's best players and we are excited about having him.
"His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us."
Ainsworth's chances of being handed the full-time role disappeared after last Saturday's disappointing 2-1 home defeat by Burnley, which saw Rangers slip to 10th in the Championship, but the popular winger will stay on as a member of Sousa's backroom team.
Sousa will be expected to mount a promotion bid this season, and the former midfielder has no qualms about dealing with the expectation. "It is an honour to be part of this project," he said. "I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers.
"I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management. I believe in playing positive, attacking football. To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this. I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead." Sousa's first game in charge will be away to Watford on Saturday. Independent
Telegraph/Sandy Macaskill
- Queens Park Rangers name former Portugal international Paulo Sousa as new coach
Paulo Sousa, the former Portugal international, has been confirmed as first-team coach of Queens Park Rangers after signing a 2½-year contract at Loftus Road.
- The 38-year-old immediately promised to provide attacking football to fulfil the club's ambitions of promotion to the Premier League.
- Sousa is the sixth coach to have been appointed by the club in 13 months, but the Portuguese waved away any concerns about dealing with the pressure of living up to his paymasters' high expectations.
- "I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management," he said. "I believe in playing positive, attacking football. To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this, both for ourselves and for the fans.
- "It is an honour to be part of this project," he added. "I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers."
- Sousa, who has been assistant coach of the Portuguese national side for the past five years, replaces caretaker manager Gareth Ainsworth, who will be kept on as a member of the coaching staff. Ainsworth was initially given the board's backing after Iain Dowie was sacked last month, yet it now appears that the club's chairman, Flavio Briatore, had already earmarked Sousa as a long-term replacement.
- "I have been keeping track of his work for the last few months and he is the right man for our project," Briatore said. "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach.
- "He has worked with some of the world's best players and we are excited about having him," Briatore added. "His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. I am delighted he has agreed to join us. He is a very good appointment for this football club." Telegraph
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard -
- Hopefully the assertions of Briatore's continued team involvement are incorrect - or at least exaggerated! Clearly, time will tell: If he remains involved, that will leak out. In the meanwhile, post your views on Sousa's appointment - or anything else - on the QPR Report Messageboard
From The Mirror/John Cross - FLAVIO SO PICKY WITH SOUSA
- Paulo Sousa was last night confirmed as QPR's new boss - but owner Flavio Briatore wants to pick the team. - Former Benfica and Juventus star Sousa was named as first-team coach at Loftus Road, as revealed in yesterday's Mirror Sport.
But QPR owner Briatore has put Sousa in charge of coaching duties rather than naming him manager because he insists on having a hands-on role in team affairs. Iain Dowie was axed as boss after objecting to Formula One tycoon Briatore's interference.
However, Briatore went for Sousa - a member of Portugal's 'Golden Generation' and an exnational team assistant coach - because he is prepared to let the owner call the shots in terms of team selection.
A club insider said: "Flavio wants to be heavily involved, thinks he can do a good job and wants a coach, rather than a manager, to work with the players he picks and signs. Mirror
The Mirror II/Derek McGovern - RESULT!: New boss Sousa will have to do as so-and-so Flavio says so
- Iain Dowie's record as QPR manager was so-so but so-so just isn't good enough when mega-rich Flavio Briatore is chairman.
- So Flavio, the old so-andso, has brought in as new manager a man named Sousa.
- Reports earlier this week that Paulo Sousa had been spotted at QPR's training ground surprised even the hardened football fan. Rangers actually train?
- Briatore knows money usually brings success, but this strategy only works if you actually spend some of it. So far the only figures that threatened to go up at Loftus Road this season were the ticket prices.
- Just 13,226 turned up on Saturday, and most of the first team were not among that number.
- Insiders believe they know what Sousa's tactics will be - exactly the same as Flavio's.
- Vc Bet offer 5-2 that Sousa is no longer in charge on the first day of next season.
- That's not the best bet in the world, but it's an awful lot better than so-so. Mirror
The Sun/Paul Jiggins - Paulo Sou right for Rangers
PAULO SOUSA has been confirmed as QPR’s new first-team coach — just as we said he would in yesterday’s SunSport.
The former Portugal midfielder, 38, last night signed a 2½-year deal at Loftus Road but can expect to be no more than a puppet in Flavio Briatore’s Rangers regime.
We told you last month that co-owner and chairman Briatore axed Iain Dowie 24 hours before last month’s clash at Reading because the Italian demanded a say in picking the team.
Midfielder Gavin Mahon admitted after the 0-0 draw with the Royals that the team Dowie selected before he was given his P45 was not the line-up that took to the field at the Madejski.
Briatore was said to be furious with Mahon for speaking to the Press after that game and the player has not started in the three Championship games since.
Caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth also refused to deny the Italian’s interference when he spoke exclusively to The Sun last Friday.
Sousa, however, is thrilled by his new appointment.
The man who had spells with Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund, said: “It is an honour to be part of this project.
“I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited.
“I have great belief in my ideas and my ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management.” The Sun
- The Times/Kaveh Solhekol - Paulo Sousa charms his way into QPR hotseat
- Queens Park Rangers are hoping that they have found the new José Mourinho after Paulo Sousa agreed to become the club's first-team coach. Sousa, who had been working as the Portugal assistant head coach, was recommended to QPR by Luiz Felipe Scolari, the Chelsea manager. The Brazilian worked with Sousa when he was in charge of Portugal and had no hesitation in recommending the 38-year-old former Juventus and Inter Milan midfield player when he was asked for his opinion.
- Sousa spoke to Scolari before deciding to move to London after the Chelsea manager told him that QPR's offer was too good to turn down. Sousa has signed a 2½-year contract worth about £20,000 a week and will be in charge of the first team for Saturday's match away to Watford.
- “He is going to be the new José Mourinho with all his flair, charm and talent,” a source at the Coca-Cola Championship club said. “Paulo got the job because he wanted it that little bit more than the rest and, unlike the others, he is up and coming. Scolari spoke warmly about his potential, and with Sousa's connections it could be a very exciting time for the club.”
- Flavio Briatore, the QPR chairman, had wanted to give the job to Gareth Ainsworth after the player-coach impressed his employers during his six games as caretaker manager, but the 2-1 defeat at home to Burnley on Saturday convinced the Italian that he needed someone with more experience. Bernie Ecclestone, the co-owner, Amit Bhatia, the vice-chairman who represents Lakshmi Mittal's 20 per cent stake in the club, and Gianni Paladini, the sporting director, convinced Briatore that appointing Ainsworth on a permanent basis would be too big a gamble if the club were serious about being promoted to the Barclays Premier League at the end of the season.
- Roberto Mancini, the former Inter coach, who is learning English in London, turned down the job because he did not want to work in the Championship. His rejection meant that QPR had to choose between Sousa and Roberto Donadoni, the former Italy coach, and the Portuguese got the job after Scolari's recommendation.
- “I believe in playing positive attacking football and I'm looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead,” Sousa said after becoming the club's eighth manager in two years.
- “I always wanted to work for a big club and I'm very excited about working for QPR.”
- Sousa has been given assurances by Briatore that he will have money to spend when the transfer window opens in January and he has also been told that he is in sole charge of first-team affairs. Briatore is a hands-on chairman and the departure last month of Iain Dowie, the manager, was caused by his refusal to pick the players that the Italian wanted in the team. Briatore was said to have had a big say in team selection when Ainsworth, who has agreed to stay as the club's player-coach, was in charge.
- Several British managers are said to have decided not to apply for the job because they were concerned that the chairman would interfere with their work.
- “Paulo has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of a new generation of coaches,” Briatore said. “He has worked with some of the best players in the world and we are very excited about having him here.”
- Sousa is unlikely to be the only new arrival at Loftus Road this week, with the club set to announce the signing of Heidar Helguson on loan from Bolton Wanderers until January. The Iceland forward failed a medical in West London last week but the deal was resurrected after QPR agreed to pay half his £16,000-a-week wages and Bolton agreed to take him back if he was injured during his loan spell. The Times
BBC - Sousa is new QPR first-team coach
- QPR have named former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as their new first-team coach.
Sousa, who was assistant coach of the Portuguese national team, has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract.
The 38-year-old played 51 times for his country and had spells with Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund.
Gareth Ainsworth, who had been in caretaker charge at Rangers, will stay on as part of Sousa's backroom team.
Sousa told QPR's website: "It is an honour to be part of this project.
"I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers.
"I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management.
"I believe in playing positive, attacking football and am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
Player/coach Ainsworth was placed at the helm by boss Flavio Briatore following the sacking of Iain Dowie in October.
Dowie was dismissed after refusing to select a team suggested to him by Briatore, who owns the west London club along with fellow Formula One magnate Bernie Ecclestone.
- Briatore had a major say in team affairs under Ainsworth, who was initially the frontrunner to land the coach's job on a permanent basis, despite a number of big names being linked with the role.
- But the search for an alternative was stepped up following Rangers' home defeat against Burnley on Saturday.
- Several British managers are understood to have stayed out of the running for the job because of the R's board's role in team selection and transfers. - Briatore described Sousa's appointment as "very good for this football club."
Briatore added: "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach.
- "He has worked with some of the world`s best players and we are excited about having him.
- "His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us."
- Sousa won the Champions League twice as a player, first with Juventus in 1996 and then Dortmund the following year.
- He also won the Serie A title with Juventus and represented Portugal at the European Championships in 1996 and 2000. BBC
INDPENDENT/Andy Sims - Sousa ready to deal with QPR's great expectations
- Paulo Sousa: 'I have great belief in my ideas and my ability, and I want to play attacking football'
- Paulo Sousa, the former Portugal international, yesterday became Queens Park Rangers' sixth manager in a little over a year when he was confirmed as their new first-team coach. Sousa follows John Gregory, Luigi De Canio and Iain Dowie, as well as caretaker managers Mick Harford and now Gareth Ainsworth, who have been dispensed with since Flavio Briatore became the chairman.
Sousa, 38, capped 51 times by his country and a Champions League-winner with Juventus in 1996 and Borussia Dortmund in 1997, has signed a two-and-a-half year contract at Loftus Road. Dowie was dismissed last month amid claims that Briatore, who is also the co-owner, wanted too much say in team selection. But Sousa, who worked under Luiz Felipe Scolari on the coaching staff of the Portuguese national team, is believed to have insisted on being in sole charge of team affairs.
"Paulo is a very good appointment," Briatore said. "I have been keeping track of his work for the last few months and he is the right man for our project. He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coaches. He has worked with some of the world's best players and we are excited about having him.
"His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us."
Ainsworth's chances of being handed the full-time role disappeared after last Saturday's disappointing 2-1 home defeat by Burnley, which saw Rangers slip to 10th in the Championship, but the popular winger will stay on as a member of Sousa's backroom team.
Sousa will be expected to mount a promotion bid this season, and the former midfielder has no qualms about dealing with the expectation. "It is an honour to be part of this project," he said. "I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers.
"I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management. I believe in playing positive, attacking football. To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this. I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead." Sousa's first game in charge will be away to Watford on Saturday. Independent
Telegraph/Sandy Macaskill
- Queens Park Rangers name former Portugal international Paulo Sousa as new coach
Paulo Sousa, the former Portugal international, has been confirmed as first-team coach of Queens Park Rangers after signing a 2½-year contract at Loftus Road.
- The 38-year-old immediately promised to provide attacking football to fulfil the club's ambitions of promotion to the Premier League.
- Sousa is the sixth coach to have been appointed by the club in 13 months, but the Portuguese waved away any concerns about dealing with the pressure of living up to his paymasters' high expectations.
- "I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management," he said. "I believe in playing positive, attacking football. To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this, both for ourselves and for the fans.
- "It is an honour to be part of this project," he added. "I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers."
- Sousa, who has been assistant coach of the Portuguese national side for the past five years, replaces caretaker manager Gareth Ainsworth, who will be kept on as a member of the coaching staff. Ainsworth was initially given the board's backing after Iain Dowie was sacked last month, yet it now appears that the club's chairman, Flavio Briatore, had already earmarked Sousa as a long-term replacement.
- "I have been keeping track of his work for the last few months and he is the right man for our project," Briatore said. "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach.
- "He has worked with some of the world's best players and we are excited about having him," Briatore added. "His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. I am delighted he has agreed to join us. He is a very good appointment for this football club." Telegraph
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Sceptical About Sousa
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For what it's worth...!
Mail/This is London - Christopher Davies - Palace chief Jordan says 'know nothing' Sousa is not the man to lead QPR
Simon Jordan, the Crystal Palace chairman, doubts whether Paulo Sousa is the man to lead Queens Park Rangers into the Premier League.
Sousa has been assistant to Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz. It is the first time the 38-year-old will take charge of a team and Jordan believes it is significant that the Portuguese has the title of first team coach.
Jordan, whose team are 17th, 10 places below QPR, joked that co-owner Flavio Briatore, who allegedly has an influence on team selection, is really the manager.|
He said: 'I think it's brilliant that a guy who knows nothing about the Championship has been appointed. The terminolgy is important. Isn't Briatore the manager?
'I was more concered when Rangers appointed Iain Dowie because although I don't have a lot of regard for him, he knows the Championship.
'Paulo Sousa knows next to nothing about the Championship which is a very specific league. You need a special knowledge of it to get out of it and you can't buy this.
'When Portsmouth finally got out of Championship they did it with an experienced manager in Harry Redknapp.'
Palace are just above the relegation zone but Jordan is convinced Eagles boss Neil Warnock is the best manager in the Championship.
He said: 'I thought that when Neil was at Sheffield United, too. I used to use United as a benchmark for us. He's the best manager in the Championship and he would be the difference between Palace being promoted or not. Managers are very important in this league.' Mail
Paul Parker/Setanta - You can't buy your way to The Premier League
Paulo Sousa has been appointed as the new Queens Park Rangers first-team coach and he comes into The Championship as a foreign manager without the experience, that worries me.
I think you need a bit of grit or at least experience down there because it doesn’t matter how much money you’ve got, it doesn’t guarantee you that Championship.
As long as the owner has relinquished the strings I think there might be a chance for him but you need a bit more than that. QPR are the team to beat in the division because they’ve got money behind them. But I don’t know if they’ve gone in the right direction with that manager.
His first job is to take three points in his next game, that’s a must. He’s got to go on an unbeaten run, which not many teams do in The Championship. If there’s money in January then maybe he can make a few changes.
There’s a lot of infuriated fans down at QPR – not just for the football but for what’s happening with the prices. All they want is their club back in The Premier League and I believe a team like QPR should be in the top division.
But they’ve got to do it right on and off the park and at the moment they’re chasing things in the wrong way. you’ve got to have the money to spend and spend it wisely. Setanta
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional material and comments; and to offer your own perspectives.
For what it's worth...!
Mail/This is London - Christopher Davies - Palace chief Jordan says 'know nothing' Sousa is not the man to lead QPR
Simon Jordan, the Crystal Palace chairman, doubts whether Paulo Sousa is the man to lead Queens Park Rangers into the Premier League.
Sousa has been assistant to Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz. It is the first time the 38-year-old will take charge of a team and Jordan believes it is significant that the Portuguese has the title of first team coach.
Jordan, whose team are 17th, 10 places below QPR, joked that co-owner Flavio Briatore, who allegedly has an influence on team selection, is really the manager.|
He said: 'I think it's brilliant that a guy who knows nothing about the Championship has been appointed. The terminolgy is important. Isn't Briatore the manager?
'I was more concered when Rangers appointed Iain Dowie because although I don't have a lot of regard for him, he knows the Championship.
'Paulo Sousa knows next to nothing about the Championship which is a very specific league. You need a special knowledge of it to get out of it and you can't buy this.
'When Portsmouth finally got out of Championship they did it with an experienced manager in Harry Redknapp.'
Palace are just above the relegation zone but Jordan is convinced Eagles boss Neil Warnock is the best manager in the Championship.
He said: 'I thought that when Neil was at Sheffield United, too. I used to use United as a benchmark for us. He's the best manager in the Championship and he would be the difference between Palace being promoted or not. Managers are very important in this league.' Mail
Paul Parker/Setanta - You can't buy your way to The Premier League
Paulo Sousa has been appointed as the new Queens Park Rangers first-team coach and he comes into The Championship as a foreign manager without the experience, that worries me.
I think you need a bit of grit or at least experience down there because it doesn’t matter how much money you’ve got, it doesn’t guarantee you that Championship.
As long as the owner has relinquished the strings I think there might be a chance for him but you need a bit more than that. QPR are the team to beat in the division because they’ve got money behind them. But I don’t know if they’ve gone in the right direction with that manager.
His first job is to take three points in his next game, that’s a must. He’s got to go on an unbeaten run, which not many teams do in The Championship. If there’s money in January then maybe he can make a few changes.
There’s a lot of infuriated fans down at QPR – not just for the football but for what’s happening with the prices. All they want is their club back in The Premier League and I believe a team like QPR should be in the top division.
But they’ve got to do it right on and off the park and at the moment they’re chasing things in the wrong way. you’ve got to have the money to spend and spend it wisely. Setanta
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional material and comments; and to offer your own perspectives.
Sousa Second Choice?...Sousa Believes in Attacking
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David McIntyre - Sousa takes over
- QPR boss Flavio Briatore has installed former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as coach.
- Sousa had a glittering playing career and will no doubt be compared to compatriot Jose Mourinho.
- Odds on Sousa being named QPR manager were slashed yesterday, apparently after a massive bet was placed, so someone was very confident ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni wouldn’t be tempted to take the job after being approached.
-Several British managers stayed out of the running because of the board’s role in transfers and team selection.
-That was also the case before the appointment of Gigi De Canio 13 months ago, when Glenn Roeder was the leading British candidate.
- Iain Dowie was later brought in because it was accepted by the owners that having a foreign coach brought various problems.
- He also took the role believing he would have ultimate control over signings and other football matters – again based on lessons learned at QPR previously.
- On both counts, there has been a U-turn and Rangers are back to where they started; appointing a suave foreign coach in the belief he’ll weave his magic while his bosses take the wider – arguably more important – decisions.
- A home defeat to Burnley was enough to end Gareth Ainsworth’s chances of getting the job, but he did his managerial aspirations no harm at all during a spell as caretaker.
-Ainsworth enjoyed his taste of the job and is keen for more of the same – and his credentials have been boosted by his time at the helm of such a volatile club.
Ainsworth will have a place among the backroom team at QPR. But when managerial jobs are up for grabs elsewhere in the future, expect him to attract some interest. BBC606
Press Association - QPR appoint Sousa
- QPR have confirmed the appointment of Portugal legend Paulo Sousa as their new first-team coach.
Sousa has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract at Loftus Road and will be in charge for Saturday`s Championship clash with Watford at Vicarage Road.
Sousa told the club`s official website, www.qpr.co.uk: "It is an honour to be part of this project. I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers."
He added: "I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management."
- The 38-year-old, who won 51 caps for his country and spent five years as assistant to former national team coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, takes over from Iain Dowie, who was sacked on October 24.
- Sousa, who confirmed he will retain Gareth Ainsworth - who has been in caretaker charge - in his backroom staff, added: "I believe in playing positive, attacking football."To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this, both for ourselves and for the fans. I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
Chairman Flavio Briatore described the capture as "a very good appointment for this football club".
He said: "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach. He has worked with some of the world`s best players and we are excited about having him.
"His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us." Press Association
David McIntyre - Sousa takes over
- QPR boss Flavio Briatore has installed former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as coach.
- Sousa had a glittering playing career and will no doubt be compared to compatriot Jose Mourinho.
- Odds on Sousa being named QPR manager were slashed yesterday, apparently after a massive bet was placed, so someone was very confident ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni wouldn’t be tempted to take the job after being approached.
-Several British managers stayed out of the running because of the board’s role in transfers and team selection.
-That was also the case before the appointment of Gigi De Canio 13 months ago, when Glenn Roeder was the leading British candidate.
- Iain Dowie was later brought in because it was accepted by the owners that having a foreign coach brought various problems.
- He also took the role believing he would have ultimate control over signings and other football matters – again based on lessons learned at QPR previously.
- On both counts, there has been a U-turn and Rangers are back to where they started; appointing a suave foreign coach in the belief he’ll weave his magic while his bosses take the wider – arguably more important – decisions.
- A home defeat to Burnley was enough to end Gareth Ainsworth’s chances of getting the job, but he did his managerial aspirations no harm at all during a spell as caretaker.
-Ainsworth enjoyed his taste of the job and is keen for more of the same – and his credentials have been boosted by his time at the helm of such a volatile club.
Ainsworth will have a place among the backroom team at QPR. But when managerial jobs are up for grabs elsewhere in the future, expect him to attract some interest. BBC606
Press Association - QPR appoint Sousa
- QPR have confirmed the appointment of Portugal legend Paulo Sousa as their new first-team coach.
Sousa has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract at Loftus Road and will be in charge for Saturday`s Championship clash with Watford at Vicarage Road.
Sousa told the club`s official website, www.qpr.co.uk: "It is an honour to be part of this project. I have always wanted to work for a big club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers."
He added: "I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management."
- The 38-year-old, who won 51 caps for his country and spent five years as assistant to former national team coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, takes over from Iain Dowie, who was sacked on October 24.
- Sousa, who confirmed he will retain Gareth Ainsworth - who has been in caretaker charge - in his backroom staff, added: "I believe in playing positive, attacking football."To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this, both for ourselves and for the fans. I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
Chairman Flavio Briatore described the capture as "a very good appointment for this football club".
He said: "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach. He has worked with some of the world`s best players and we are excited about having him.
"His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us." Press Association
Helguson Apparently Coming
-
London Informer/Paul Warburton
"...About a pace behind the new man through the QPR entrance will follow Heidar Helguson. The loan deal for the Bolton forward was scuppered on Friday after the Icelander failed a medical.
But a frantic re-negotiation amid the search for the new manager has landed the ex-Fulham player until January with Bolton now paying half his £16,000-a-week wages.
If Helguson breaks down with injury, he returns straight away to The Reebok." London Informer
London Informer/Paul Warburton
"...About a pace behind the new man through the QPR entrance will follow Heidar Helguson. The loan deal for the Bolton forward was scuppered on Friday after the Icelander failed a medical.
But a frantic re-negotiation amid the search for the new manager has landed the ex-Fulham player until January with Bolton now paying half his £16,000-a-week wages.
If Helguson breaks down with injury, he returns straight away to The Reebok." London Informer
QPR Confirm Sousa is New "First Team Coach" - "The New Mourinho" ?
-
QPR OFFICIAL SITE-
-Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Paulo Sousa as First Team Coach.
- The 38 year-old, who won 51 caps for Portugal during an illustrious playing career and spent five years as assistant to Luis Felipe Scolari with the Portuguese national team, has penned a two-and-a-half year contract until the summer of 2011.
Sousa, who will retain the services of temporary Caretaker Manager Gareth Ainsworth within his backroom staff, will take charge of the R's Coca Cola Championship fixture against Watford on Saturday.
- Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Sousa said: "It is an honour to be part of this project. I have always wanted to work for a big Club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers.
"I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management."
Sousa added: "I believe in playing positive, attacking football. To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this, both for ourselves and for the fans.
"I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
- Flavio Briatore, QPR Holdings Limited Chairman, added: "Paulo is a very good appointment for this Football Club.
- "I have been keeping track of his work for the last few months and he is the right man for our project.
- "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach. He has worked with some of the World's best players and we are excited about having him.
- "His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us."
- Briatore added: "I would like to thank Gareth Ainsworth for his contribution as Caretaker Manager and confirm that he still has a very important role to play at this Club. He is QPR through and through and will work very closely with Paulo as we build for a successful future."
- The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR Official Site - Sousa Appointed
Also: - QPR Profile of Sousa
London Informer/Paul Warburton - Paulo Sousa takes QPR top job
QPR believe they've got the new Jose Mourinho as their eighth boss in two years.
And no less a person than Luiz Felipe Scolari recommended Paulo Sousa to the Hoops, who are set to unveil the Portuguese assistant manager tommorow morning.
Sousa will take charge of the team in time for Saturday's game at Watford with Gareth Ainsworth set to take a place alongside the Portuguese as number two.
Ainsworth had been in temporary charge since the sacking of Iain Dowie last month, but had his ear bent on more than a few occasions by chairman Flavio Briatore who made it plain who he wanted in the team.
Sousa was equally adamant he wanted a free hand to run things, and has got his wish as well as a three-year contract worth around £1million a year - but with massive bonuses for promotion thrown in.
However, a chat with Scolari down the road at Chelsea sealed the Rs job for the former Benfica, Borussia Dortmund and Juventus midfielder.
A Rangers insider said: "He is going to be the new Jose Mourinho with all his flair, charm and talent. Paulo got the job because he wanted it just that little bit more than the rest, and unlike the others is up-and-coming.
"Scolari spoke warmly about his potential, and with Sousa's connections it could be a very exciting time for Rangers."
The Portuguese beat off a challenge from former Italian national team boss Roberto Donadoni, who's been out of work since he was sacked following Italy's disastrous showing in Euro '08 in the summer." London Informer
QPR OFFICIAL SITE-
-Queens Park Rangers Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Paulo Sousa as First Team Coach.
- The 38 year-old, who won 51 caps for Portugal during an illustrious playing career and spent five years as assistant to Luis Felipe Scolari with the Portuguese national team, has penned a two-and-a-half year contract until the summer of 2011.
Sousa, who will retain the services of temporary Caretaker Manager Gareth Ainsworth within his backroom staff, will take charge of the R's Coca Cola Championship fixture against Watford on Saturday.
- Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Sousa said: "It is an honour to be part of this project. I have always wanted to work for a big Club and I am very excited about the opportunity to work for Queens Park Rangers.
"I have great belief in my ideas and my coaching ability and I firmly believe I can achieve the objectives set by the management."
Sousa added: "I believe in playing positive, attacking football. To achieve positive results you have to maintain a focused outlook and my team will aim to do this, both for ourselves and for the fans.
"I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
- Flavio Briatore, QPR Holdings Limited Chairman, added: "Paulo is a very good appointment for this Football Club.
- "I have been keeping track of his work for the last few months and he is the right man for our project.
- "He has great experience after working with the Portuguese national team and he is part of the new generation of coach. He has worked with some of the World's best players and we are excited about having him.
- "His football career was highly impressive and he has great knowledge of the game. After five years with Portugal, he is ready for a new challenge and I am delighted he has agreed to join us."
- Briatore added: "I would like to thank Gareth Ainsworth for his contribution as Caretaker Manager and confirm that he still has a very important role to play at this Club. He is QPR through and through and will work very closely with Paulo as we build for a successful future."
- The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR Official Site - Sousa Appointed
Also: - QPR Profile of Sousa
London Informer/Paul Warburton - Paulo Sousa takes QPR top job
QPR believe they've got the new Jose Mourinho as their eighth boss in two years.
And no less a person than Luiz Felipe Scolari recommended Paulo Sousa to the Hoops, who are set to unveil the Portuguese assistant manager tommorow morning.
Sousa will take charge of the team in time for Saturday's game at Watford with Gareth Ainsworth set to take a place alongside the Portuguese as number two.
Ainsworth had been in temporary charge since the sacking of Iain Dowie last month, but had his ear bent on more than a few occasions by chairman Flavio Briatore who made it plain who he wanted in the team.
Sousa was equally adamant he wanted a free hand to run things, and has got his wish as well as a three-year contract worth around £1million a year - but with massive bonuses for promotion thrown in.
However, a chat with Scolari down the road at Chelsea sealed the Rs job for the former Benfica, Borussia Dortmund and Juventus midfielder.
A Rangers insider said: "He is going to be the new Jose Mourinho with all his flair, charm and talent. Paulo got the job because he wanted it just that little bit more than the rest, and unlike the others is up-and-coming.
"Scolari spoke warmly about his potential, and with Sousa's connections it could be a very exciting time for Rangers."
The Portuguese beat off a challenge from former Italian national team boss Roberto Donadoni, who's been out of work since he was sacked following Italy's disastrous showing in Euro '08 in the summer." London Informer
"Just like his prospective new manager, it appears that QPR chief Briatore needs to learn a few things
-
Mail: HatchetMan - HATCHET MAN: Just like his prospective new manager, it appears that QPR chief Briatore needs to learn a few things
- Flavio Briatore claims to know all about sport and believes he has the nous to turn QPR into a top flight success.
- But somehow the Rangers chairman doesn't seem to have noticed how badly the last former playing legend who went into management is struggling in English football, or he wouldn't be on the verge of appointing Paulo Sousa the club's new manager.
If the Portuguese starts anywhere near as badly as Gianfranco Zola at West Ham then he will not last too long at Loftus Road.
The Italian has struggled since taking over at Upton Park in September and has a similar background to Sousa as their previous managerial experience has been with international sides.
- But Briatore, who laughably considered himself for the post, must think that Sousa's knowledge from working as an assistant for the Portugal national team and coaching the country's under-15s makes him perfect for getting the team out of the Championship.
- Either that or he thought it would be better to have a big-name figurehead to take training and face the press while he picks the team. Mail
Offer your opinion on the QPR Report Messageboard
Mail: HatchetMan - HATCHET MAN: Just like his prospective new manager, it appears that QPR chief Briatore needs to learn a few things
- Flavio Briatore claims to know all about sport and believes he has the nous to turn QPR into a top flight success.
- But somehow the Rangers chairman doesn't seem to have noticed how badly the last former playing legend who went into management is struggling in English football, or he wouldn't be on the verge of appointing Paulo Sousa the club's new manager.
If the Portuguese starts anywhere near as badly as Gianfranco Zola at West Ham then he will not last too long at Loftus Road.
The Italian has struggled since taking over at Upton Park in September and has a similar background to Sousa as their previous managerial experience has been with international sides.
- But Briatore, who laughably considered himself for the post, must think that Sousa's knowledge from working as an assistant for the Portugal national team and coaching the country's under-15s makes him perfect for getting the team out of the Championship.
- Either that or he thought it would be better to have a big-name figurehead to take training and face the press while he picks the team. Mail
Offer your opinion on the QPR Report Messageboard
UPDATED: Additional Sousa-to-QPR Reports
-
The Guardian - QPR set to appoint Sousa as manager•
Former Portugal midfielder is friends with Briatore• Will be club's sixth manager in two yearsguardian.co.uk, Wednesday November 19 2008
- Queens Park Rangers are set to name the former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as their new manager in succession to Iain Dowie, who was sacked last month.
- Sousa, currently a coach with his country's national team, has held talks with the Rangers co-owner Flavio Briatore and is expected to be confirmed as the club's sixth manager, including caretakers, in two years before the weekend.
The club's temporary manager, Gareth Ainsworth, saw his hopes of assuming the reins on a permanent basis wrecked by recent defeats to Ipswich and Burnley.
- Sousa, 38, struck up a friendship with Briatore during his time playing in Italy with Internazionale, Juventus and Parma. The Guardian
Dave McIntyre/BBC606 - Back to the Future
- QPR boss Flavio Briatore is close to installing a new coach to work under him and should have his man in place by the weekend.
- Former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa, hotly tipped to take over, had a glittering playing career and will no doubt be compared to compatriot Jose Mourinho if he is appointed.
- Betting on the QPR manager's job was suspended yesterday, apparently after a massive bet on Sousa was placed, so someone was very confident ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni won’t be tempted to take the job after being approached.
- Former Italy defender Alessandro Costacurta will come into contention if both Donadoni and Sousa turn Rangers down.
- Several British managers have stayed out of the running because of the board’s role in transfers and team selection.
- That was also the case before the appointment of Gigi De Canio 13 months ago, when Glenn Roeder was the leading British candidate.
- Iain Dowie was later brought in because it was accepted by the owners that having a foreign coach brought various problems.
- He also took the role believing he would have ultimate control over signings and other football matters – again based on lessons learned at QPR previously.
- On both counts, there has been a U-turn and Rangers are back to where they started; looking for a suave foreign coach in the belief he’ll weave his magic while his bosses take the wider – arguably more important – decisions.
- A home defeat to Burnley was enough to end Gareth Ainsworth’s chances of getting the job, but he did his managerial aspirations no harm at all during a spell as caretaker.
- Ainsworth enjoyed his taste of the job and is keen for more of the same – and his credentials have been boosted by his time at the helm of such a volatile club.
- For now, it seems Ainsworth will have a place among the backroom team at QPR. But when managerial jobs are up for grabs elsewhere in the future, expect him to attract some interest. BBC606
The MAIL/Ben Hunt - QPR plump for Paulo Sousa but Ainsworth expected to stay on Paulo Sousa is today expected to be appointed as Queens Park Rangers' new manager.
Player-coach Gareth Ainsworth had been placed in temporary charge and was keen to win the role the full-time, but defeats to Burnley and Ipswich ruined his chances of landing the job on a permanent basis.
Ainsworth is, however, expected to stay at the club as part of the coaching staff under Sousa, who could be in the dug-out for Saturday's Championship match against Watford.
Co-owner Flavio Briatore sees the former Portugal midfielder as the right candidate to lead his side to the top flight. Sousa has been working as assistant to Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz and has also coached the Under-15 national team
The 38-year-old won 51 caps and enjoyed a successful playing career with clubs including Benfica, Juventus and Inter Milan before he was forced to retire through injury. Briatore's choice is something of a surprise - it had been reported he was considering appointing himself as Iain Dowie's replacement.
He had been keen for Dowie to include loan-signings such as Real Madrid youngster Daniel Parejo and Samuel Di Carmine in his squad.
However, the former Crystal Palace and Charlton boss was clearly unhappy with the Italian's input when it came to team selection and left the club after only 15 games.
Briatore and Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone completed their takeover of the club just over a year ago and were later joined in their investment by Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal.
Back then, Italian Luigi de Canio was in charge and led the club to a respectable finish in the Championship.
However, his time at Loftus Road was cut short after only 35 games and he left in May this year.
Although reign was brief, De Canio won over the club's supporters, who are likely to be sceptical about Sousa's appointment given his lack of club management, not to mention his knowledge of the English game - though he at least speaks the language.
Sousa's first job will be to boost the club's attacking line-up with more loan signings.
Ainsworth missed out on Bolton Wanderers' Heidar Helguson last week, while Sunderland's Michael Chopra agreed to rejoin Cardiff City.
He is expected to be handed substantial transfer funds in the January transfer window, while Briatore will continue to use his link in Italy to secure more arrivals on loan. Mail
The Mirror/John Cross - QPR to name Paulo Sousa as new manager
Paulo Sousa is the surprise choice as the new QPR manager.
The former Portugal midfielder was at Loftus Road and the club’s training ground yesterday for talks.
Sousa, whose clubs as a player included Benfica, Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, is Portugal assistant coach but did not travel with the team for their friendly in Brazil.
Sousa’s odds to replace axed Iain Dowie plunged from 25-1 to 1-3 favourite yesterday. Mirror
The Sun SHOCK ... Paulo Sousa in line for job-
The Sun - Sousa set for QPR boss job
PAULO SOUSA is Flavio Briatore’s shock choice as the next manager of QPR.
The former Portugal midfielder, 38, has agreed a deal and will replace Gareth Ainsworth.
Ainsworth has been in caretaker charge since co-owner Briatore sacked Iain Dowie last month.
Defeats to Burnley and Ipswich scuppered his chances of getting the job on a permanent basis but he will stay on at the club.
Sousa is currently assistant to Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz and played 51 times for his country.
Briatore also considered ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni but settled on Sousa, who is likely to be at the helm for Saturday’s Championship trip to Watford. The Sun
The Guardian - QPR set to appoint Sousa as manager•
Former Portugal midfielder is friends with Briatore• Will be club's sixth manager in two yearsguardian.co.uk, Wednesday November 19 2008
- Queens Park Rangers are set to name the former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa as their new manager in succession to Iain Dowie, who was sacked last month.
- Sousa, currently a coach with his country's national team, has held talks with the Rangers co-owner Flavio Briatore and is expected to be confirmed as the club's sixth manager, including caretakers, in two years before the weekend.
The club's temporary manager, Gareth Ainsworth, saw his hopes of assuming the reins on a permanent basis wrecked by recent defeats to Ipswich and Burnley.
- Sousa, 38, struck up a friendship with Briatore during his time playing in Italy with Internazionale, Juventus and Parma. The Guardian
Dave McIntyre/BBC606 - Back to the Future
- QPR boss Flavio Briatore is close to installing a new coach to work under him and should have his man in place by the weekend.
- Former Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa, hotly tipped to take over, had a glittering playing career and will no doubt be compared to compatriot Jose Mourinho if he is appointed.
- Betting on the QPR manager's job was suspended yesterday, apparently after a massive bet on Sousa was placed, so someone was very confident ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni won’t be tempted to take the job after being approached.
- Former Italy defender Alessandro Costacurta will come into contention if both Donadoni and Sousa turn Rangers down.
- Several British managers have stayed out of the running because of the board’s role in transfers and team selection.
- That was also the case before the appointment of Gigi De Canio 13 months ago, when Glenn Roeder was the leading British candidate.
- Iain Dowie was later brought in because it was accepted by the owners that having a foreign coach brought various problems.
- He also took the role believing he would have ultimate control over signings and other football matters – again based on lessons learned at QPR previously.
- On both counts, there has been a U-turn and Rangers are back to where they started; looking for a suave foreign coach in the belief he’ll weave his magic while his bosses take the wider – arguably more important – decisions.
- A home defeat to Burnley was enough to end Gareth Ainsworth’s chances of getting the job, but he did his managerial aspirations no harm at all during a spell as caretaker.
- Ainsworth enjoyed his taste of the job and is keen for more of the same – and his credentials have been boosted by his time at the helm of such a volatile club.
- For now, it seems Ainsworth will have a place among the backroom team at QPR. But when managerial jobs are up for grabs elsewhere in the future, expect him to attract some interest. BBC606
The MAIL/Ben Hunt - QPR plump for Paulo Sousa but Ainsworth expected to stay on Paulo Sousa is today expected to be appointed as Queens Park Rangers' new manager.
Player-coach Gareth Ainsworth had been placed in temporary charge and was keen to win the role the full-time, but defeats to Burnley and Ipswich ruined his chances of landing the job on a permanent basis.
Ainsworth is, however, expected to stay at the club as part of the coaching staff under Sousa, who could be in the dug-out for Saturday's Championship match against Watford.
Co-owner Flavio Briatore sees the former Portugal midfielder as the right candidate to lead his side to the top flight. Sousa has been working as assistant to Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz and has also coached the Under-15 national team
The 38-year-old won 51 caps and enjoyed a successful playing career with clubs including Benfica, Juventus and Inter Milan before he was forced to retire through injury. Briatore's choice is something of a surprise - it had been reported he was considering appointing himself as Iain Dowie's replacement.
He had been keen for Dowie to include loan-signings such as Real Madrid youngster Daniel Parejo and Samuel Di Carmine in his squad.
However, the former Crystal Palace and Charlton boss was clearly unhappy with the Italian's input when it came to team selection and left the club after only 15 games.
Briatore and Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone completed their takeover of the club just over a year ago and were later joined in their investment by Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal.
Back then, Italian Luigi de Canio was in charge and led the club to a respectable finish in the Championship.
However, his time at Loftus Road was cut short after only 35 games and he left in May this year.
Although reign was brief, De Canio won over the club's supporters, who are likely to be sceptical about Sousa's appointment given his lack of club management, not to mention his knowledge of the English game - though he at least speaks the language.
Sousa's first job will be to boost the club's attacking line-up with more loan signings.
Ainsworth missed out on Bolton Wanderers' Heidar Helguson last week, while Sunderland's Michael Chopra agreed to rejoin Cardiff City.
He is expected to be handed substantial transfer funds in the January transfer window, while Briatore will continue to use his link in Italy to secure more arrivals on loan. Mail
The Mirror/John Cross - QPR to name Paulo Sousa as new manager
Paulo Sousa is the surprise choice as the new QPR manager.
The former Portugal midfielder was at Loftus Road and the club’s training ground yesterday for talks.
Sousa, whose clubs as a player included Benfica, Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, is Portugal assistant coach but did not travel with the team for their friendly in Brazil.
Sousa’s odds to replace axed Iain Dowie plunged from 25-1 to 1-3 favourite yesterday. Mirror
The Sun SHOCK ... Paulo Sousa in line for job-
The Sun - Sousa set for QPR boss job
PAULO SOUSA is Flavio Briatore’s shock choice as the next manager of QPR.
The former Portugal midfielder, 38, has agreed a deal and will replace Gareth Ainsworth.
Ainsworth has been in caretaker charge since co-owner Briatore sacked Iain Dowie last month.
Defeats to Burnley and Ipswich scuppered his chances of getting the job on a permanent basis but he will stay on at the club.
Sousa is currently assistant to Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz and played 51 times for his country.
Briatore also considered ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni but settled on Sousa, who is likely to be at the helm for Saturday’s Championship trip to Watford. The Sun
Caliendo Asks About His QPR Payments...Ex-QPR Birthdays..."On This Day" Flashbacks
-
- See also: Flashback I: Seven Years Ago, QPR's FA Cup Humiliation........ Flashback II: Three Years Ago; Nine QPR Players Booked......QPR Fans Fly in From The Gulf .....Ben Sahar Update.......Examining the Rise of Hull......West Ham Could be in Financial Trouble
- As noted on the QPR Italia blog: Antonio Caliendo is asking about payments (English Web Translation) --- And in the original Italian:
Antonio Caliendo is asking about payment !
English Web Translation: Caliendo to Briatore: "When you pay me?"
CALIENDO A Briatore: WHEN PAID MY CREDIT?
Can you tell us when will paid my debts? Briatore can deny that QPR was bought for 90 million and say what he really paid myself and my associates to buy the club? I hope that answers will not wait"
. The prosecutor and former chairman and shareholder of Queens Park Rangers, Antonio Caliendo, so back with a long note on the property of another English club.
"I agree - writes Caliendo addressing Briatore - when claims that football in England is a business, starting from the stadium property that can create wealth in different ways. In that respect we are still waiting for permission to go with our experts for the evaluation of it, so far denied. It 'a business also sell shares of QPR! can say what he earned from the sale of my shares of QPR by Mr Mittal? Can you tell us if you are giving more shares to other potential buyers and at what price ?
La Repubblica.it The Repubblica.it
- See also: Caliendo's October blog postings re payments
Birthdays Today: David Seaman, Ian Evatt and Justin Channing-
David Seaman Turns 45:
Born November 19, 1963. Signed by Jim Smith from Birmingham for £250,000 in 1986. Seaman made his QPR debut in the club's 5-1 defeat at Southampton (future QPR forward scoring a hatrick on his Southampton debut). Seaman played almost 150 league games over 4 seasons before he was reluctanctly allowed to join Arsenal for £1.3 million in May 1990 (where he played 400+ league games). Seaman was also capped 75 times by England
Ian Evatt turns 27
Born November 19, 1981). Signed from Chesterfield for about £150,000 in the Summer of 2005. Played 27 games for QPR in his first season season. Joined Blackpool last season, initially on loan, and then permanently.
Justin Channing Turns 39
(Born November 19, 1968) The defender/midfielder played about 50 games over a number of seasons for QPR before joining Bristol Rovers. Channing made his QPR debut in the 1986-87 season. He best season was 1989-1990, where he played 23 games for QPR.
Some Recent "Missed" Birthdays
Bobby Turpie - 13 November 1949
QPR apprentice who made 2 QPR appearances in 1969/1970. As Tony Currie said in an interview on QPR's Official Site: "I first joined QPR on amateur forms when I was 14 to 15 years-old. Then when I left school the Club didn't think I was good enough to sign as an apprentice. Instead, they signed Bob Turpie who was a mate of mine and went to the same School as me. So I then had to go and work for a small building firm..."
Keith Pritchett - 8 November 1953
Signed by Dave Sexton from Doncaster in 1975, he made four appearances
in the 1974/1975 season before being sold to Brentford
Bryan Williams - 5 November 1955
Signed by Frank Sibley from Bury in 1977/1978. Spent one season with QPR before being sold to Swindon
Michael Mahoney Johnson - 6 November 1976
With QPR in the late 1990s. Eventually joined Portadown in 2000.
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional articles and opinions
- See also: Flashback I: Seven Years Ago, QPR's FA Cup Humiliation........ Flashback II: Three Years Ago; Nine QPR Players Booked......QPR Fans Fly in From The Gulf .....Ben Sahar Update.......Examining the Rise of Hull......West Ham Could be in Financial Trouble
- As noted on the QPR Italia blog: Antonio Caliendo is asking about payments (English Web Translation) --- And in the original Italian:
Antonio Caliendo is asking about payment !
English Web Translation: Caliendo to Briatore: "When you pay me?"
CALIENDO A Briatore: WHEN PAID MY CREDIT?
Can you tell us when will paid my debts? Briatore can deny that QPR was bought for 90 million and say what he really paid myself and my associates to buy the club? I hope that answers will not wait"
. The prosecutor and former chairman and shareholder of Queens Park Rangers, Antonio Caliendo, so back with a long note on the property of another English club.
"I agree - writes Caliendo addressing Briatore - when claims that football in England is a business, starting from the stadium property that can create wealth in different ways. In that respect we are still waiting for permission to go with our experts for the evaluation of it, so far denied. It 'a business also sell shares of QPR! can say what he earned from the sale of my shares of QPR by Mr Mittal? Can you tell us if you are giving more shares to other potential buyers and at what price ?
La Repubblica.it The Repubblica.it
- See also: Caliendo's October blog postings re payments
Birthdays Today: David Seaman, Ian Evatt and Justin Channing-
David Seaman Turns 45:
Born November 19, 1963. Signed by Jim Smith from Birmingham for £250,000 in 1986. Seaman made his QPR debut in the club's 5-1 defeat at Southampton (future QPR forward scoring a hatrick on his Southampton debut). Seaman played almost 150 league games over 4 seasons before he was reluctanctly allowed to join Arsenal for £1.3 million in May 1990 (where he played 400+ league games). Seaman was also capped 75 times by England
Ian Evatt turns 27
Born November 19, 1981). Signed from Chesterfield for about £150,000 in the Summer of 2005. Played 27 games for QPR in his first season season. Joined Blackpool last season, initially on loan, and then permanently.
Justin Channing Turns 39
(Born November 19, 1968) The defender/midfielder played about 50 games over a number of seasons for QPR before joining Bristol Rovers. Channing made his QPR debut in the 1986-87 season. He best season was 1989-1990, where he played 23 games for QPR.
Some Recent "Missed" Birthdays
Bobby Turpie - 13 November 1949
QPR apprentice who made 2 QPR appearances in 1969/1970. As Tony Currie said in an interview on QPR's Official Site: "I first joined QPR on amateur forms when I was 14 to 15 years-old. Then when I left school the Club didn't think I was good enough to sign as an apprentice. Instead, they signed Bob Turpie who was a mate of mine and went to the same School as me. So I then had to go and work for a small building firm..."
Keith Pritchett - 8 November 1953
Signed by Dave Sexton from Doncaster in 1975, he made four appearances
in the 1974/1975 season before being sold to Brentford
Bryan Williams - 5 November 1955
Signed by Frank Sibley from Bury in 1977/1978. Spent one season with QPR before being sold to Swindon
Michael Mahoney Johnson - 6 November 1976
With QPR in the late 1990s. Eventually joined Portadown in 2000.
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard for additional articles and opinions
Lee Cook's Claim to Knowledge about Tommasi: Championship Manager
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Mail/Alex Kay - Lee Cook says QPR team-mate Tommasi's form is virtual reality
QPR winger Lee Cook said he knew new signing Damiano Tommasi would a star at Loftus Road — from playing computer game Championship Manager.
Midfielder Tommasi signed on a free from Spanish side Levante in September and made his debut at the end of last month as Gareth Ainsworth's side shocked Birmingham 1-0.
The Italian also impressed when Rangers saw off fellow play-off hopefuls Cardiff two weeks ago, something which came as no surprise to Cook.
'Damiano Tommasi is just starting to play some games for us. I knew he was going to be a top player because I always signed him on Champ Man and he always did a job for me,' said the former Fulham winger on his personal blog.
And Cook also praised the former Italian international's language skills, saying he has fitted in well at the club. 'I've been really impressed by his English as well,' said Cook.
'He's the best English speaker of all the lads who've come in from abroad and he's very easy to talk to.
'He's 34 now, has about 25 caps for Italy and was at Roma for ages so his experience is second to none. I think he´ll be a great addition to the squad in terms of both his play and bringing the young lads along too.' Mail
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Mail/Alex Kay - Lee Cook says QPR team-mate Tommasi's form is virtual reality
QPR winger Lee Cook said he knew new signing Damiano Tommasi would a star at Loftus Road — from playing computer game Championship Manager.
Midfielder Tommasi signed on a free from Spanish side Levante in September and made his debut at the end of last month as Gareth Ainsworth's side shocked Birmingham 1-0.
The Italian also impressed when Rangers saw off fellow play-off hopefuls Cardiff two weeks ago, something which came as no surprise to Cook.
'Damiano Tommasi is just starting to play some games for us. I knew he was going to be a top player because I always signed him on Champ Man and he always did a job for me,' said the former Fulham winger on his personal blog.
And Cook also praised the former Italian international's language skills, saying he has fitted in well at the club. 'I've been really impressed by his English as well,' said Cook.
'He's the best English speaker of all the lads who've come in from abroad and he's very easy to talk to.
'He's 34 now, has about 25 caps for Italy and was at Roma for ages so his experience is second to none. I think he´ll be a great addition to the squad in terms of both his play and bringing the young lads along too.' Mail
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Amazing Claim: "Briatore was tempted to appoint himself as Iain Dowie's successor..."
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Daily Mail/Neil Ashton -Portugal legend Paulo Sousa set to become new QPR manager
Portugal legend Paulo Sousa will be appointed the new QPR manager after holding talks with Flavio Briatore in London on Tuesday night.
Briatore was tempted to appoint himself as Iain Dowie's successor at Loftus Road but has instead turned to the former Inter Milan and Juventus midfielder, who is currently assistant manager to Carlos Queiroz with the Portuguese national team.
It means Gareth Ainsworth, who has been coaching the team since Dowie's departure last month, will be moved aside after failing to convince Briatore.
Rangers were beaten narrowly at Manchester United in the Carling Cup last week but it was the home defeat to Burnley last Saturday that sealed his fate.
Sousa, 38, began his coaching career with Portugal Under 15s but stepped up to the first team when Luiz Felipe Scolari left for Chelsea in the summer. Mail
- Feel free to visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Daily Mail/Neil Ashton -Portugal legend Paulo Sousa set to become new QPR manager
Portugal legend Paulo Sousa will be appointed the new QPR manager after holding talks with Flavio Briatore in London on Tuesday night.
Briatore was tempted to appoint himself as Iain Dowie's successor at Loftus Road but has instead turned to the former Inter Milan and Juventus midfielder, who is currently assistant manager to Carlos Queiroz with the Portuguese national team.
It means Gareth Ainsworth, who has been coaching the team since Dowie's departure last month, will be moved aside after failing to convince Briatore.
Rangers were beaten narrowly at Manchester United in the Carling Cup last week but it was the home defeat to Burnley last Saturday that sealed his fate.
Sousa, 38, began his coaching career with Portugal Under 15s but stepped up to the first team when Luiz Felipe Scolari left for Chelsea in the summer. Mail
- Feel free to visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Sousa to Be Announced as QPR Manager (Seen at Training Ground)
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Telegraph/Sandy Macaskill - Queens Park Rangers poised to appoint Paulo Sousa as new manager
- Championship side Queens Park Rangers are understood to be on the verge of appointing Paulo Sousa as their manager, after the former Portuguese international was seen at the club's training ground on Tuesday.
- Sousa has reportedly agreed contractual terms, although the club have made no official announcement.
The development comes in spite of pledges made by the club's board to support Gareth Ainsworth, who was appointed in a caretaker role immediately after Iain Dowie was sacked last month. Ainsworth's strong start has been soured by recent defeats to Burnley and Ipswich, and while the 35-year-old will stay at the club, it will be in a different role.
- Sousa, 38, played 51 times for Portugal, but he has little management experience – although he is presently assisting Carlos Queiroz with the Portuguese national team. Considering the club's Italian connection, through Flavio Briatore, the chairman, many will say that his qualification for the role comes via the virtue of having spent a large portion of his playing career with Juventus and Inter Milan.
- Briatore is believed to have considered former Italy manager Roberto Donadoni and former AC Milan centre-back Alessandro Costacurta for the position before deciding on Sousa, who is likely to be instated in time for Saturday's Championship visit to Watford. Telegraph
- Feel free to visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Telegraph/Sandy Macaskill - Queens Park Rangers poised to appoint Paulo Sousa as new manager
- Championship side Queens Park Rangers are understood to be on the verge of appointing Paulo Sousa as their manager, after the former Portuguese international was seen at the club's training ground on Tuesday.
- Sousa has reportedly agreed contractual terms, although the club have made no official announcement.
The development comes in spite of pledges made by the club's board to support Gareth Ainsworth, who was appointed in a caretaker role immediately after Iain Dowie was sacked last month. Ainsworth's strong start has been soured by recent defeats to Burnley and Ipswich, and while the 35-year-old will stay at the club, it will be in a different role.
- Sousa, 38, played 51 times for Portugal, but he has little management experience – although he is presently assisting Carlos Queiroz with the Portuguese national team. Considering the club's Italian connection, through Flavio Briatore, the chairman, many will say that his qualification for the role comes via the virtue of having spent a large portion of his playing career with Juventus and Inter Milan.
- Briatore is believed to have considered former Italy manager Roberto Donadoni and former AC Milan centre-back Alessandro Costacurta for the position before deciding on Sousa, who is likely to be instated in time for Saturday's Championship visit to Watford. Telegraph
- Feel free to visit the QPR Report Messageboard
Being Reported it's Sousa (But NOT been announced)
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Sport.co.uk - Nigel Brown
Briatore goes Portuguese as Sousa gets QPR job
Paulo Sousa is Flavio Briatore's shock choice as the new manager of QPR. The former Portugal midfielder, 38, has agreed a deal with Briatore after negotiations at Loftus Road.Gareth Ainsworth has been in caretaker charge since Briatore sacked Iain Dowie last month, but defeats to Burnely and Ipswich scuppered the 35-year-old's chances of getting the job on a permanent basis, although he will stay at the club in a different role.
Sousa is currently assistant to Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz and played 51 times for his country, as well as enjoying illustrious spells at Juventus, Inter Milan and Borussia Dortmund.
And the Portuguese will bring the glitz and glamour Briatore wants in west London.
Briatore also considered ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni and former AC Milan centre-back Alessandro Costacurta for the Loftus Road hot-seat.
But the Italian has settled on Sousa, who is likely to be in the dugout for Saturday's Championship trip to Watford. Sports.co.uk
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard to discuss this and other subjects
Sport.co.uk - Nigel Brown
Briatore goes Portuguese as Sousa gets QPR job
Paulo Sousa is Flavio Briatore's shock choice as the new manager of QPR. The former Portugal midfielder, 38, has agreed a deal with Briatore after negotiations at Loftus Road.Gareth Ainsworth has been in caretaker charge since Briatore sacked Iain Dowie last month, but defeats to Burnely and Ipswich scuppered the 35-year-old's chances of getting the job on a permanent basis, although he will stay at the club in a different role.
Sousa is currently assistant to Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz and played 51 times for his country, as well as enjoying illustrious spells at Juventus, Inter Milan and Borussia Dortmund.
And the Portuguese will bring the glitz and glamour Briatore wants in west London.
Briatore also considered ex-Italy boss Roberto Donadoni and former AC Milan centre-back Alessandro Costacurta for the Loftus Road hot-seat.
But the Italian has settled on Sousa, who is likely to be in the dugout for Saturday's Championship trip to Watford. Sports.co.uk
Visit the QPR Report Messageboard to discuss this and other subjects
Alternatively: Roberto Donadoni as Possible QPR Manager
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Ealing Gazette/Dave McIntyre - Donadoni in the frame for QPR job
- QPR are set to offer former Italy boss Roberto Donadoni the job of first-team coach at Loftus Road, with ex-Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa also in the frame.
Donadoni and Sousa have emerged as the Rangers board’s preferred choices and former Italy defender Alessandro Costacurta is likely to be offered the role if both men turn it down.
- Donadoni was sacked as Italy manager after his side were beaten in the quarter-finals of the European Championships earlier this year.
- The 45-year-old, who made 63 appearances for Italy as a player, has also had spells in charge of Genoa, Livorno and Lecco.
- He was approached by QPR boss Flavio Briatore after the search for a new coach was stepped up following Rangers’ home defeat to Burnley on Saturday.
- Sousa, 38, is currently assistant coach of the Portuguese national team and has also been approached.
- He played 51 times for his country and had spells with Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund.
- Costacurta, 42, was capped 59 times by Italy during a distinguished playing career in which he made over 450 appearances for AC Milan.
-He is currently head coach of Italian Serie B outfit Mantova and has been was linked the QPR job prior to Iain Dowie’s appointment in the summer.
- Briatore is determined to have a new man at the helm by the time Rangers play Watford at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
- Gareth Ainsworth, who has been in caretaker charge since Dowie’s dismissal last month, was initially the frontrunner to take over on a full-time basis despite a number of big names being linked.
- Ainsworth is now not being considered for the position but is expected to stay at the club in some capacity.
- Dowie was axed after refusing to select a team suggested to him by Briatore, who has had a major say in team affairs under Ainsworth.
- Several British managers have stayed out of the running for the job because of the Rangers board's role in team selection and transfers. Ealing Gazette
Ealing Gazette/Dave McIntyre - Donadoni in the frame for QPR job
- QPR are set to offer former Italy boss Roberto Donadoni the job of first-team coach at Loftus Road, with ex-Portugal midfielder Paulo Sousa also in the frame.
Donadoni and Sousa have emerged as the Rangers board’s preferred choices and former Italy defender Alessandro Costacurta is likely to be offered the role if both men turn it down.
- Donadoni was sacked as Italy manager after his side were beaten in the quarter-finals of the European Championships earlier this year.
- The 45-year-old, who made 63 appearances for Italy as a player, has also had spells in charge of Genoa, Livorno and Lecco.
- He was approached by QPR boss Flavio Briatore after the search for a new coach was stepped up following Rangers’ home defeat to Burnley on Saturday.
- Sousa, 38, is currently assistant coach of the Portuguese national team and has also been approached.
- He played 51 times for his country and had spells with Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, Inter Milan, Parma and Borussia Dortmund.
- Costacurta, 42, was capped 59 times by Italy during a distinguished playing career in which he made over 450 appearances for AC Milan.
-He is currently head coach of Italian Serie B outfit Mantova and has been was linked the QPR job prior to Iain Dowie’s appointment in the summer.
- Briatore is determined to have a new man at the helm by the time Rangers play Watford at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
- Gareth Ainsworth, who has been in caretaker charge since Dowie’s dismissal last month, was initially the frontrunner to take over on a full-time basis despite a number of big names being linked.
- Ainsworth is now not being considered for the position but is expected to stay at the club in some capacity.
- Dowie was axed after refusing to select a team suggested to him by Briatore, who has had a major say in team affairs under Ainsworth.
- Several British managers have stayed out of the running for the job because of the Rangers board's role in team selection and transfers. Ealing Gazette
Paolo Sousa As QPR Manager - Supposedly The New Favourite
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As others have already noted on the messageboards;
Clubcall - Ex-Juventus ace tipped to take Rangers reins
- Bookmakers have made ex-Portugal and Juventus star Paolo Sousa the odds-on favourite to be the next manager of QPR.
- One major firm slashed their odds on the 38-year-old becoming the next permanent boss at Loftus Road from 25-1 to 1-3 after taking a frenzy of bets.
- Sousa has been a dark horse in the running to replace Iain Dowie since chairman Flavio Briatore parted company with him and installed Gareth Ainsworth as his fourth manager, temporary or otherwise, since the new investors came in.
- The Portuguese coach is currently an assistant to Carlos Queiroz with the national team in Lisbon, but has obvious connections to Briatore's home country after several years spent in Serie A as a player with Juve, Inter and Parma.
Clubcall
- Retired from Playing in 2002
Elsewhere, QPR Reserves lost today to Watford reserves: Match Report
Visit QPR Report Messageboard
As others have already noted on the messageboards;
Clubcall - Ex-Juventus ace tipped to take Rangers reins
- Bookmakers have made ex-Portugal and Juventus star Paolo Sousa the odds-on favourite to be the next manager of QPR.
- One major firm slashed their odds on the 38-year-old becoming the next permanent boss at Loftus Road from 25-1 to 1-3 after taking a frenzy of bets.
- Sousa has been a dark horse in the running to replace Iain Dowie since chairman Flavio Briatore parted company with him and installed Gareth Ainsworth as his fourth manager, temporary or otherwise, since the new investors came in.
- The Portuguese coach is currently an assistant to Carlos Queiroz with the national team in Lisbon, but has obvious connections to Briatore's home country after several years spent in Serie A as a player with Juve, Inter and Parma.
Clubcall
- Retired from Playing in 2002
Elsewhere, QPR Reserves lost today to Watford reserves: Match Report
Visit QPR Report Messageboard
Off to South Africa Next Week: QPR's Ali Russell and David Orman
-
- As noted a couple of weeks ago on QPR Report, there's a big conference in South Africa next week: Soccerex 2008, November 23-26 in Gauteng, South Africa. "Representing" QPR: "Ali Russell Deputy Managing Director Queens Park Rangers FC" and "David Orman Commercial Director Queens Park Rangers FC"
From Soccerex: 2008 THE BUSINESS CONVENTION FOR FOOTBALL WORLDWIDE SOCCEREX 2008 will take place from 23 - 26 November in Gauteng, South Africa. The 4 day event will provide the global football community with a unique platform to learn, network and do business, under one roof, in the province that will host the FIFA 2010 World Cup final. With over 4000 delegates and 300 exhibitors, from over 95 countries expected to attend Soccerex 2008, this year's event is sure to be our biggest and best yet. For more information on Soccerex 2008, including this year's conference programme and exhibitor list, please choose from the options on the left.
In addition to the Soccerex 2008 convention, Soccerex serves the global football community through its networking and conference forums and other supplementary products like Soccerex Business Magazine and our new online networking facility, SoccerExchange. ..."
IFCS Sponsorship : How to attract, manage and deliver the perfect partnership
This workshop sponsored by Navyblue will focus on sponsorship deals from both sides of the fence – how clubs can find a sponsor that will work for them and the ways in which sponsors can leverage their involvement with Rights Holders. Keynote address from Navyblue on the importance of your brand and interactive sponsorship. Speakers: Jeff Slack, Executive Vice President Europe, Marketing, Wassermann Media Group * Jeremy Dale, Corporate VP Global Marketing Communications, Motorola Ali Russell, Deputy Managing Director, QPR Christopher Pepe, Vice-President of Global Sponsorships, VISA International Ron Cregan, Director, Navyblue"
From November 4, 2008 QPR Report
QPR's Deputy Managing Director Ali Russell Off to South Africa for Soccerex Conference on Sponsorship, Licensing and Branding
All Africa News -South Africa: Soccerex Workshops to Focus on Licensing, Sponsorship
- As part of the new industry-focused approach for Soccerex 2008, the inaugural International Football Club Summit (IFCS) will feature essential panels dedicated to Licensing and Sponsorship.
- The world's biggest business-to-business soccer convention will take place from 23 to 26 November 2008.
- Soccerex on Tuesday announced that the final two IFCS workshops will feature industry experts discussing and sharing their knowledge on two of the key revenue streams of any sport.
- Licensing is a key revenue stream for clubs of all sizes and the IFCS Licensing workshop will look at the different ways in which Rights Holders can reach their markets both at home and abroad.
- The in-depth session will feature senior representatives from Global Brands, Superleague Formula and AC Milan.
- Mark Matheny, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Chairman of Global Brands, will discuss his company's appointment as FIFA's exclusive licensing representative to create a range of FIFA official licensed products as well as on-site concessionaire for all FIFA events throughout this 8-year term.
- Alex Andreu, President of Superleague Formula, will examine partnership opportunities between Football and the world of motor racing.
- Laura Masi, Vice Commercial and Marketing Director of AC Milan will impart her knowledge on how a club can ensure its brand is successfully marketed domestically as well as globally.
- The IFCS Sponsorship workshop will focus on sponsorship deals from both sides of the fence - how clubs can find a sponsor that will work for them and the ways in which sponsors can leverage their involvement with Rights Holders.
- This session will bring together leading decision-makers from Wasserman Media Group, Motorola, Gulf Air, QPR and Navyblue.- Jeff Slack, Executive Vice President Europe, Marketing of Wasserman Media Group, the leading sports management and marketing company, will discuss the potential for sponsorship within the football industry.
- Jeremy Dale, Corporate VP Global Marketing Communications, Motorola, will examine Player Sponsorship opportunities with particular focus on Motorola's sponsorship deal with David Beckham.
- Jon Barnett, Sponsorship Manager of Gulf Air and Ali Russell, Deputy Managing Director of QPR, will examine their recent sponsorship deal, and provide advice for clubs and sponsors on forming a mutually-beneficial partnership.
- This session will feature a key note address by Director of brand consultants Navyblue, Ron Cregan, on the importance of brands in attracting sponsorship.
The two 90-minute workshops will present an extraordinary opportunity for any football club wishing to maximise revenue from Licensing and Sponsorship deals, as well as for suppliers to speak directly with clubs' key decision makers.
-The Licensing and Sponsorship workshops are just two of six IFCS workshops that will focus on the key revenue streams available to football clubs such as player development, stadia, law & finance, media, licensing and sponsorship." - Ali Russell off to South Africa - Sponsorship, Licensing and Branding"
- Complete Programme
- List of Conference Attendees
- See also:Soccerex Latest News
- As noted a couple of weeks ago on QPR Report, there's a big conference in South Africa next week: Soccerex 2008, November 23-26 in Gauteng, South Africa. "Representing" QPR: "Ali Russell Deputy Managing Director Queens Park Rangers FC" and "David Orman Commercial Director Queens Park Rangers FC"
From Soccerex: 2008 THE BUSINESS CONVENTION FOR FOOTBALL WORLDWIDE SOCCEREX 2008 will take place from 23 - 26 November in Gauteng, South Africa. The 4 day event will provide the global football community with a unique platform to learn, network and do business, under one roof, in the province that will host the FIFA 2010 World Cup final. With over 4000 delegates and 300 exhibitors, from over 95 countries expected to attend Soccerex 2008, this year's event is sure to be our biggest and best yet. For more information on Soccerex 2008, including this year's conference programme and exhibitor list, please choose from the options on the left.
In addition to the Soccerex 2008 convention, Soccerex serves the global football community through its networking and conference forums and other supplementary products like Soccerex Business Magazine and our new online networking facility, SoccerExchange. ..."
IFCS Sponsorship : How to attract, manage and deliver the perfect partnership
This workshop sponsored by Navyblue will focus on sponsorship deals from both sides of the fence – how clubs can find a sponsor that will work for them and the ways in which sponsors can leverage their involvement with Rights Holders. Keynote address from Navyblue on the importance of your brand and interactive sponsorship. Speakers: Jeff Slack, Executive Vice President Europe, Marketing, Wassermann Media Group * Jeremy Dale, Corporate VP Global Marketing Communications, Motorola Ali Russell, Deputy Managing Director, QPR Christopher Pepe, Vice-President of Global Sponsorships, VISA International Ron Cregan, Director, Navyblue"
From November 4, 2008 QPR Report
QPR's Deputy Managing Director Ali Russell Off to South Africa for Soccerex Conference on Sponsorship, Licensing and Branding
All Africa News -South Africa: Soccerex Workshops to Focus on Licensing, Sponsorship
- As part of the new industry-focused approach for Soccerex 2008, the inaugural International Football Club Summit (IFCS) will feature essential panels dedicated to Licensing and Sponsorship.
- The world's biggest business-to-business soccer convention will take place from 23 to 26 November 2008.
- Soccerex on Tuesday announced that the final two IFCS workshops will feature industry experts discussing and sharing their knowledge on two of the key revenue streams of any sport.
- Licensing is a key revenue stream for clubs of all sizes and the IFCS Licensing workshop will look at the different ways in which Rights Holders can reach their markets both at home and abroad.
- The in-depth session will feature senior representatives from Global Brands, Superleague Formula and AC Milan.
- Mark Matheny, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Chairman of Global Brands, will discuss his company's appointment as FIFA's exclusive licensing representative to create a range of FIFA official licensed products as well as on-site concessionaire for all FIFA events throughout this 8-year term.
- Alex Andreu, President of Superleague Formula, will examine partnership opportunities between Football and the world of motor racing.
- Laura Masi, Vice Commercial and Marketing Director of AC Milan will impart her knowledge on how a club can ensure its brand is successfully marketed domestically as well as globally.
- The IFCS Sponsorship workshop will focus on sponsorship deals from both sides of the fence - how clubs can find a sponsor that will work for them and the ways in which sponsors can leverage their involvement with Rights Holders.
- This session will bring together leading decision-makers from Wasserman Media Group, Motorola, Gulf Air, QPR and Navyblue.- Jeff Slack, Executive Vice President Europe, Marketing of Wasserman Media Group, the leading sports management and marketing company, will discuss the potential for sponsorship within the football industry.
- Jeremy Dale, Corporate VP Global Marketing Communications, Motorola, will examine Player Sponsorship opportunities with particular focus on Motorola's sponsorship deal with David Beckham.
- Jon Barnett, Sponsorship Manager of Gulf Air and Ali Russell, Deputy Managing Director of QPR, will examine their recent sponsorship deal, and provide advice for clubs and sponsors on forming a mutually-beneficial partnership.
- This session will feature a key note address by Director of brand consultants Navyblue, Ron Cregan, on the importance of brands in attracting sponsorship.
The two 90-minute workshops will present an extraordinary opportunity for any football club wishing to maximise revenue from Licensing and Sponsorship deals, as well as for suppliers to speak directly with clubs' key decision makers.
-The Licensing and Sponsorship workshops are just two of six IFCS workshops that will focus on the key revenue streams available to football clubs such as player development, stadia, law & finance, media, licensing and sponsorship." - Ali Russell off to South Africa - Sponsorship, Licensing and Branding"
- Complete Programme
- List of Conference Attendees
- See also:Soccerex Latest News
QPR's Managers: Two QPR Report/Vital Football QPR Articles (Reposted)
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As QPR approach the four week mark (this Friday) since Chairman's Flavior Briatore's abrupt axing of manager Iain Dowie, Gareth Ainsworth remains QPR's "Acting Manager"...So a second look at two recent pieces re QPR Managers
Vital Football/QPR - The Byzantine World of QPR FC by QPR Report
In his second instalment of contributions, QPR Report looks at the current managerial plight at Queens Park Rangers, and what an English manager would have to sacrifice to work for owners of our calibre.
IT IS now three weeks since Iain Dowie became the latest addition to the QPR Managerial Alumni Association - dismissed after only a few months as QPR's 'Head Coach.' The timing of the axing was a surprise; but scarcely a shock - although the reports of why he was axed were stunning. Meanwhile the usual process of appointing a manager - either from within; or from without - appear from reports to be absent at Loftus Road .
Among the names mentioned in the press as Dowie`s managerial successor are: Terry Venables, Joe Kinnear, Sam Allardyce, Darren Ferguson, David O'Leary, Roberto Mancini, Kenny Jackett and Roberto Landi. But there is a growing belief based not least on comments by the only people who actually matter on this issue - QPR`s owners - that acting manager Gareth Ainsworth has the job in his grasp. And Ainsworth has increasingly said he's be interested (but would want to remain at the club if he's not appointed.)
This latest QPR managerial vacancy began with the curt announcement that "The Board of Queens Park Rangers Football Club has terminated the contract of Manager Iain Dowie with immediate effect." Gratingly absent from the QPR statement was the traditional expression of 'future good wishes.'
As was shown in the Recent Vital QPR piece, The Managerial Merry-Go-Round, QPR fans are well accustomed to managerial turnover. However even for QPR fans inured to managerial turmoil, this latest saga is quantitatively different to the norm - either at QPR or even in football general.
QPR's owners have already adopted the 'Continental' system of not having the manager be the one to buy the players. Whether it`s a good idea or is working is debatable but moot. It`s what the owners want; and it`s just a question of them finding a manager prepared to accept those terms. But now, if the reports are true, with the dismissal of Dowie, the club has taken another step down the path of board 'involvement' with the team.
According to reports, Dowie`s dismissal came about at least in part, because he refused to play players team Chairman Flavio Briatore wanted him to play. This 'problem' seems to have been resolved under the caretaker manager, the crowd favourite, but totally inexperienced, Gareth Ainsworth. In his first game, Ainsworth played two of the players - Di Carmine and Tomassi - signed by the Chairman and who he demanded be played and Parejo has frequently figured.
Whether or not Briatore ultimately has a role in team selection, (something that both the Chairman and the Acting manager have vehemently denied), they have both acknowledge they have 'discussions' with the manager over players.
And the latest fillip: As reported in the Sunday papers: QPR co-owners Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone were meeting with the players before the game - and Briatore even gave the players a pre-match pep talk.
Ainsworth put on a positive spin on the situation: 'Flavio [Briatore] was in the dressing room with Bernie Ecclestone, motivating the players and geeing them up...Flavio likes to be involved, he's a winner through and through in sport and it's fantastic to have him on board. And it's great to see Bernie Ecclestone here - he's a bit of a lucky charm for us at the moment.' I have no problems with them being in the dressing room before the game and nor do the players....' Ainsworth added. 'Flavio likes to be involved. But the final team is mine.'
Whatever the intention of Briatore and his co-board members; and whatever the declarations of Ainsworth: this surely has the effect of undermining the man ostensibly in charge.
There has been some scathing criticism of this Board involvement - none more critical that former QPR and England Manager, Terry Venables who was unequivocal in his criticism re QPR:
'...The logical conclusion to a situation like that is what happened at QPR. Co-owner Flavio Briatore sacked Iain Dowie and decided to pick the team himself. - I could never work in a situation like that. My name`s been linked to QPR but it`s not going to happen. - Briatore may think he can do the job himself and he may even succeed in the short-term. But in the end he will fail. - The only way you can pick a team is if you`re on the training ground every day. .. no self-respecting manager would accept working for an owner who picks the team. - When it comes to tactics, team selection and transfers, the manager MUST have total control. ...'
Briatore and Bhatia have repeatedly hinted that Ainsworth is their replacement:
Briatore explained his view: "I was not happy with the football that Dowie was producing, simple as that…I know what I am doing. I have won World Championships in Formula One…, I am from the sport business...The coach is important but the money is coming from us. If we had not made the decision about Dowie, the season could have been a big disaster. I`m not scared to make a decision. Not making a decision is often a bad decision."
"You give a chance to people who deserve it. Gareth deserves a chance. I gave Michael Schumacher a chance in Formula One, so it`s ridiculous we need someone with experience"
QPR Vice- Chairman, Amit Bhatia said: 'A lot has been said about Flavio picking the team. I don't know how involved other owners or other chairmen are, but at our club we care a great deal and as a result we might be more hands-on than most people.
'But we respect the fact that the manager is there to do a job, and the team selected, regardless of what anybody around us says, has to be the manager's. ....'Do I have suggestions over what the team should be? Of course I do, like any fan. But when Gareth puts out a team, it is Gareth's team.'
Bhatia added: 'If Gareth is the best man for the job, then we have to give him a fair shot at it. He may not have much experience of being a manager, but he has the respect of all of the players. 'It is only fair that Gareth gets the chance that he deserves, and for now I am absolutely thrilled."
Thus far, Ainsworth, has actually amassed a pretty credible managerial record: (An away draw at Reading ; followed by a home win against leaders Birmingham . A disappointing defeat at Ipswich and then a late winner at home to a weakened Cardiff . And then the credible result at Old Trafford.
These results have left Rangers well positioned for a playoff challenge, even as a couple of season-long injuries, and a couple of apparent transfer deals have fallen through. But Ainsworth is someone who`s just started coaching and is without experience.
An Ainsworth appointment would be quite a gamble. But if it happens, best of luck to him. Far more troublesome if the concept of Board involvement - direct or indirect - on team selection. And that they might be appointing Ainsworth because he, unlike other managers, is prepared to tolerate this involvement.
Whatever the veracity of Harold Wilson's dictum that 'A week is a long time in politics;' three weeks in the world of football, is an eternity."
Vital Football QPR
Vital Football QPR - The QPR Managerial Merry-Go-Around - By QPR Report
As Rangers go in search of a new boss following the sacking of Iain Dowie, QPR Report takes a look at the managerial Merry-Go Round that surrounds the club.
BEING a Queen's Park Rangers (QPR) fan means never being surprised at what may come the way of QPR. As a QPR fan you've grown accustomed to disappointing results (especially in the Cups); sensationalist tabloid stories and shock developments on and off the field
So it was, once again, this past week when, after weeks of press gossip and messageboard rumours, Chairman Flavio Briatore axed Manager (Chief Coach) Iain Dowie. While the sacking was not exactly a shock; certainly its imminent timing hadn't been predicted or announced by either the media or by board posters ostensibly 'in the know.'
So now, after a brief hiatus, it's back to the QPR Managerial Merry-Go-Round: Already various names are being touted in the press. In many instances, it's a case of 'Round up the usual suspects' as names cited in previous job hunts are again mentioned. Primus inter pares in this list, The perennial Terry Venables who for the last two decades, has had his name touted as the potential 'next' QPR manager.
The announcement that Gareth Ainsworth would be the QPR Acting Manager (even though the ousted Iain Dowie had in fact been designated as First Team Coach) means that Ainsworth is QPR's 13th manager (four of them, including himself, caretaker managers) to manage the club in the 13 seasons since QPR`s relegation in 1996. 10 'permanent' managers in 12 years.
Almost (but not every) QPR Chairman has made his own contribution to this lamentable managerial record; although clearly some Chairmen are more impatient than others (or have made poor managerial selections). QPR fans need no reminding how many permanent and acting managers have come QPR's way since Ian Holloway was placed on 'Gardening Leave' just two-and-a-half years ago.
Since Alec Stock was (shamefully) ousted as QPR's manager almost exactly forty years ago, QPR managers have come and gone; come and gone, constituting some 25 in total. If Terry Venables were really to return - almost a quarter century after he abandoned QPR for Barcelona, QPR have seen 20 managers (including caretakers) 'guide' the club. QPR's longest-serving manager since Stock, was Ian Holloway's almost five years in charge before he was cast out. By QPR standards, with each passing day - and with each ensuing manager - Holloway's five year tenure looks more and more remarkable.
Just their very names conjure up memories: The optimism of their appointment followed by disillusionment and ultimately, departure. Alec Stock, Bill Dodgin, Tommy Docherty, Les Allen, Gordon Jago, Dave Sexton, Frank Sibley, Steve Burtenshaw, Tommy Docherty, Terry Venables, Gordon Jago, Alan Mullery, Jim Smith, Terry Francis, Don Howe, Gerry Francis, Ray Wilkins, Stuart Houston, Ray Harford, Gerry Francis, Ian Holloway, Gary Waddock, John Gregory, Luigi De Canio, Iain Dowie. And whoever is the next manager or scapegoat. (And this list does not include the Acting Managerships of Iain Dowie, John Hollins, Mick Harford, the repeated turns of Frank Sibley, and now Gareth Ainsworth)
All too often, QPR managerial appointments end in grief. Only rarely have QPR managers left QPR for better things or left relatively amicably: Venables went off to Barcelona. Sexton left for Manchester United (after initially having seemed aimed for Arsenal). Gerry Francis, the first time, went off to Spurs (but that was in part a result of a Chairman-Manager dispute). Jim Smith was permitted to move to Newcastle (a lateral move). And Luigi De Canio had a departure shrouded in mystery.
On the bright side: For any QPR fans unhappy with QPR's next managerial appointment, this note: Don't fret. He probably won't be QPR manager for too long!"
Vital Football QPR
As QPR approach the four week mark (this Friday) since Chairman's Flavior Briatore's abrupt axing of manager Iain Dowie, Gareth Ainsworth remains QPR's "Acting Manager"...So a second look at two recent pieces re QPR Managers
Vital Football/QPR - The Byzantine World of QPR FC by QPR Report
In his second instalment of contributions, QPR Report looks at the current managerial plight at Queens Park Rangers, and what an English manager would have to sacrifice to work for owners of our calibre.
IT IS now three weeks since Iain Dowie became the latest addition to the QPR Managerial Alumni Association - dismissed after only a few months as QPR's 'Head Coach.' The timing of the axing was a surprise; but scarcely a shock - although the reports of why he was axed were stunning. Meanwhile the usual process of appointing a manager - either from within; or from without - appear from reports to be absent at Loftus Road .
Among the names mentioned in the press as Dowie`s managerial successor are: Terry Venables, Joe Kinnear, Sam Allardyce, Darren Ferguson, David O'Leary, Roberto Mancini, Kenny Jackett and Roberto Landi. But there is a growing belief based not least on comments by the only people who actually matter on this issue - QPR`s owners - that acting manager Gareth Ainsworth has the job in his grasp. And Ainsworth has increasingly said he's be interested (but would want to remain at the club if he's not appointed.)
This latest QPR managerial vacancy began with the curt announcement that "The Board of Queens Park Rangers Football Club has terminated the contract of Manager Iain Dowie with immediate effect." Gratingly absent from the QPR statement was the traditional expression of 'future good wishes.'
As was shown in the Recent Vital QPR piece, The Managerial Merry-Go-Round, QPR fans are well accustomed to managerial turnover. However even for QPR fans inured to managerial turmoil, this latest saga is quantitatively different to the norm - either at QPR or even in football general.
QPR's owners have already adopted the 'Continental' system of not having the manager be the one to buy the players. Whether it`s a good idea or is working is debatable but moot. It`s what the owners want; and it`s just a question of them finding a manager prepared to accept those terms. But now, if the reports are true, with the dismissal of Dowie, the club has taken another step down the path of board 'involvement' with the team.
According to reports, Dowie`s dismissal came about at least in part, because he refused to play players team Chairman Flavio Briatore wanted him to play. This 'problem' seems to have been resolved under the caretaker manager, the crowd favourite, but totally inexperienced, Gareth Ainsworth. In his first game, Ainsworth played two of the players - Di Carmine and Tomassi - signed by the Chairman and who he demanded be played and Parejo has frequently figured.
Whether or not Briatore ultimately has a role in team selection, (something that both the Chairman and the Acting manager have vehemently denied), they have both acknowledge they have 'discussions' with the manager over players.
And the latest fillip: As reported in the Sunday papers: QPR co-owners Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone were meeting with the players before the game - and Briatore even gave the players a pre-match pep talk.
Ainsworth put on a positive spin on the situation: 'Flavio [Briatore] was in the dressing room with Bernie Ecclestone, motivating the players and geeing them up...Flavio likes to be involved, he's a winner through and through in sport and it's fantastic to have him on board. And it's great to see Bernie Ecclestone here - he's a bit of a lucky charm for us at the moment.' I have no problems with them being in the dressing room before the game and nor do the players....' Ainsworth added. 'Flavio likes to be involved. But the final team is mine.'
Whatever the intention of Briatore and his co-board members; and whatever the declarations of Ainsworth: this surely has the effect of undermining the man ostensibly in charge.
There has been some scathing criticism of this Board involvement - none more critical that former QPR and England Manager, Terry Venables who was unequivocal in his criticism re QPR:
'...The logical conclusion to a situation like that is what happened at QPR. Co-owner Flavio Briatore sacked Iain Dowie and decided to pick the team himself. - I could never work in a situation like that. My name`s been linked to QPR but it`s not going to happen. - Briatore may think he can do the job himself and he may even succeed in the short-term. But in the end he will fail. - The only way you can pick a team is if you`re on the training ground every day. .. no self-respecting manager would accept working for an owner who picks the team. - When it comes to tactics, team selection and transfers, the manager MUST have total control. ...'
Briatore and Bhatia have repeatedly hinted that Ainsworth is their replacement:
Briatore explained his view: "I was not happy with the football that Dowie was producing, simple as that…I know what I am doing. I have won World Championships in Formula One…, I am from the sport business...The coach is important but the money is coming from us. If we had not made the decision about Dowie, the season could have been a big disaster. I`m not scared to make a decision. Not making a decision is often a bad decision."
"You give a chance to people who deserve it. Gareth deserves a chance. I gave Michael Schumacher a chance in Formula One, so it`s ridiculous we need someone with experience"
QPR Vice- Chairman, Amit Bhatia said: 'A lot has been said about Flavio picking the team. I don't know how involved other owners or other chairmen are, but at our club we care a great deal and as a result we might be more hands-on than most people.
'But we respect the fact that the manager is there to do a job, and the team selected, regardless of what anybody around us says, has to be the manager's. ....'Do I have suggestions over what the team should be? Of course I do, like any fan. But when Gareth puts out a team, it is Gareth's team.'
Bhatia added: 'If Gareth is the best man for the job, then we have to give him a fair shot at it. He may not have much experience of being a manager, but he has the respect of all of the players. 'It is only fair that Gareth gets the chance that he deserves, and for now I am absolutely thrilled."
Thus far, Ainsworth, has actually amassed a pretty credible managerial record: (An away draw at Reading ; followed by a home win against leaders Birmingham . A disappointing defeat at Ipswich and then a late winner at home to a weakened Cardiff . And then the credible result at Old Trafford.
These results have left Rangers well positioned for a playoff challenge, even as a couple of season-long injuries, and a couple of apparent transfer deals have fallen through. But Ainsworth is someone who`s just started coaching and is without experience.
An Ainsworth appointment would be quite a gamble. But if it happens, best of luck to him. Far more troublesome if the concept of Board involvement - direct or indirect - on team selection. And that they might be appointing Ainsworth because he, unlike other managers, is prepared to tolerate this involvement.
Whatever the veracity of Harold Wilson's dictum that 'A week is a long time in politics;' three weeks in the world of football, is an eternity."
Vital Football QPR
Vital Football QPR - The QPR Managerial Merry-Go-Around - By QPR Report
As Rangers go in search of a new boss following the sacking of Iain Dowie, QPR Report takes a look at the managerial Merry-Go Round that surrounds the club.
BEING a Queen's Park Rangers (QPR) fan means never being surprised at what may come the way of QPR. As a QPR fan you've grown accustomed to disappointing results (especially in the Cups); sensationalist tabloid stories and shock developments on and off the field
So it was, once again, this past week when, after weeks of press gossip and messageboard rumours, Chairman Flavio Briatore axed Manager (Chief Coach) Iain Dowie. While the sacking was not exactly a shock; certainly its imminent timing hadn't been predicted or announced by either the media or by board posters ostensibly 'in the know.'
So now, after a brief hiatus, it's back to the QPR Managerial Merry-Go-Round: Already various names are being touted in the press. In many instances, it's a case of 'Round up the usual suspects' as names cited in previous job hunts are again mentioned. Primus inter pares in this list, The perennial Terry Venables who for the last two decades, has had his name touted as the potential 'next' QPR manager.
The announcement that Gareth Ainsworth would be the QPR Acting Manager (even though the ousted Iain Dowie had in fact been designated as First Team Coach) means that Ainsworth is QPR's 13th manager (four of them, including himself, caretaker managers) to manage the club in the 13 seasons since QPR`s relegation in 1996. 10 'permanent' managers in 12 years.
Almost (but not every) QPR Chairman has made his own contribution to this lamentable managerial record; although clearly some Chairmen are more impatient than others (or have made poor managerial selections). QPR fans need no reminding how many permanent and acting managers have come QPR's way since Ian Holloway was placed on 'Gardening Leave' just two-and-a-half years ago.
Since Alec Stock was (shamefully) ousted as QPR's manager almost exactly forty years ago, QPR managers have come and gone; come and gone, constituting some 25 in total. If Terry Venables were really to return - almost a quarter century after he abandoned QPR for Barcelona, QPR have seen 20 managers (including caretakers) 'guide' the club. QPR's longest-serving manager since Stock, was Ian Holloway's almost five years in charge before he was cast out. By QPR standards, with each passing day - and with each ensuing manager - Holloway's five year tenure looks more and more remarkable.
Just their very names conjure up memories: The optimism of their appointment followed by disillusionment and ultimately, departure. Alec Stock, Bill Dodgin, Tommy Docherty, Les Allen, Gordon Jago, Dave Sexton, Frank Sibley, Steve Burtenshaw, Tommy Docherty, Terry Venables, Gordon Jago, Alan Mullery, Jim Smith, Terry Francis, Don Howe, Gerry Francis, Ray Wilkins, Stuart Houston, Ray Harford, Gerry Francis, Ian Holloway, Gary Waddock, John Gregory, Luigi De Canio, Iain Dowie. And whoever is the next manager or scapegoat. (And this list does not include the Acting Managerships of Iain Dowie, John Hollins, Mick Harford, the repeated turns of Frank Sibley, and now Gareth Ainsworth)
All too often, QPR managerial appointments end in grief. Only rarely have QPR managers left QPR for better things or left relatively amicably: Venables went off to Barcelona. Sexton left for Manchester United (after initially having seemed aimed for Arsenal). Gerry Francis, the first time, went off to Spurs (but that was in part a result of a Chairman-Manager dispute). Jim Smith was permitted to move to Newcastle (a lateral move). And Luigi De Canio had a departure shrouded in mystery.
On the bright side: For any QPR fans unhappy with QPR's next managerial appointment, this note: Don't fret. He probably won't be QPR manager for too long!"
Vital Football QPR
Wolves Want Blackstock...Dunga Role?...Gorkss to Preston?...Gregory on Mancienne...Walton Rejects Crewe...Reserves Play...Camp...Gallen...St.Aimie
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- Also: Roberto Mancini Named Serie A Coach of the Year......
- And an observation: With all the QPR transfer rumours/press talk, the deadline for signing loan players is next week. Then the window is closed (except maybe for "emergency loans") till the transfer window opens again, January 1.
Vital Football/QPR on Gorkss to Preston
"Vital QPR can exclusively reveal that Queens Park Rangers defender Kaspars Gorkss is in preliminary talks with another Championship club with a view to a loan deal...has recently been in talks with Preston North End..." - See Full story at: QPR Vital Football
Miror - Wolves target QPR top scorer Dexter Blackstock
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy is ready to make a £1.5million move for QPR striker Dexter Blackstock.
McCarthy is keen to strengthen his side's promotion bid but the wealthy Londoners will not want to lose one of their top players.
QPR are hoping Brazil manager Dunga will help persuade Manchester City's Samba star Elano to join them.
Elano is wanted on loan but he is worried about his international chances if he drops into the Championship. Mirror
BBC: John Gregory on Michael Mancienne
'...And having watched him "cruise" through those reserve games, it was not long before the then QPR boss John Gregory snapped up Mancienne on loan in October 2006.
"I'm a huge fan," Gregory told BBC Sport. "He is better than Terry was at the same age. We fell in love with him at the club. He's very quick, reads the game brilliantly and has the pace to get out of trouble.
"When the ball was played over the top there was no one quicker in the division. He's a dominant central defender and tidies up brilliantly.
"He's brave, tackles well and is really good in the air for not a tall player."
The former Aston Villa and Derby boss managed QPR for a year until October 2007 and despite initially utilising Mancienne as a right-back, enjoyed watching his development into a central defender.
"We questioned whether he would be strong enough," Gregory added. "Chelsea reserves is one thing but Championship life or death games were another.
"He was caught ball-watching occasionally but he has learned from his mistakes. He is outstanding now."
After rejecting the offer of representing the Seychelles (his family moved to the UK three years before his birth), Mancienne captained the England Under 18s before he was called up by Pearce last year.
Mancienne helped England U-21s qualify for the 2009 European Champs
And with a month remaining on his loan period at Wolves, manager Mick McCarthy says Mancienne has been a huge factor in helping his team to a six-point lead at the top of the Championship.
But is he good enough to make the international grade?
McCarthy thinks so, saying Mancienne was "ready" for the next step up, claiming his senior call-up is just part of a "natural progression".
Gregory sees no reason why Mancienne will not earn many England caps, comparing his situation to a similar baptism of fire for Gareth Barry when he was introduced to the senior set-up aged 17.
"So far Mancienne has coped admirably with everything thrown at him," said Gregory, Barry's manager at Aston Villa between 1998-2002.
"Barry came through it all and there is no reason why Mancienne can't do the same.
"If you look at him play you see there's a Rio Ferdinand there. Wolves is a great club for him right now, he's got a very supportive family and he's got a fantastic future."
With injury forcing Rio Ferdinand's absence on Wednesday, Aston Villa's Curtis Davies and Everton's Joleon Lescott in the squad, and the likes of excluded Jonathan Woodgate in good form for Spurs, competition for the England centre-half spots is hot.
If Mancienne's development continues as it has done, his club career may make a few twists and turns, but as far as his international duties are concerned, there seems to be no turning back. BBC
QPR Official Site - Reserves vs Watford Reserves Today
IN RESERVE: LEDESMA SET TO FEATURE
Emmanuel Ledesma and Kaspars Gorkss are both set to feature for QPR Reserves against Watford this afternoon. The duo have been named in an otherwise inexperienced second string for the Totesportcasino.com Combination Cup tie at Loftus Road.
Rangers will be keen to get back to winning ways in the competition, after succumbing to a 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace in their opening Cup fixture of the season earlier this month. The match kicks off at 2.00pm.
Tickets are priced at £5 for adults and £3 for Under-16's. However, Season Ticket holders can enter free of charge, on the production of their booklets.
QPR Reserves (from): Crowther, Ilesanmi, Oastler, Gorkss, Maguire, Ledesma, Smith, Flood, Nanetti, Parker, German, Putnins, Walters, Vanterpool, Wright, Ehme
QPR
The Plymouth Herald - re Simon Walton
"....Meanwhile, out-of-favour midfielder Simon Walton wants to stay and fight for a first team spot after rejecting a loan move to League One club Crewe Alexandra.
The 21-year-old, who signed from Queens Park Rangers in August, decided on Friday he did not want to make the move to Crewe.
Sturrock said: "I can appreciate his situation. He has just had a kid with his partner and she's going to move down here, so he doesn't want to travel away to Crewe, but I had to give him the option because of the lack of (reserve team) games.
"He wants to fight for his place – that's the commitment he has shown – but there is a learning curve for him...."
" Plymouth Herald
LEE CAMP TALKING "WE" -About Nottingham Forest!
Our confidence is on the rise - Camp
City will have to find a way past one of their former goalkeepers in Saturday's televised game at Nottingham Forest - and even a penalty could be far from a for mality.
Lee Camp has saved spot-kicks in Forest's last two away games to earn them vital points in their battle to escape the Championship relegation zone.
On loan at the City Ground from Queens Park Rangers, the 24-year-old 'keeper turned away Michael McIndoe's injury-time penalty to earn a 2-2 draw at Bristol City on Saturday.
Camp also foiled Nacer Barazite from 12 yards to secure a point against his former club, Derby, at Pride Park.
The former England Under-21 'keeper, who played three times for the Canaries during a three-month loan spell two seasons ago, believes Forest are growing in confidence after extending their unbeaten run to four games.
He said: “The more points we get keeps pulling other teams back into that relegation table that is forming and, if we are picking up points, confidence will get higher.
“If you look at how many saves I have to make and what I have to do in a game, it is very minimal. For me, there has not been a bad performance since I have been here.”
Camp was delighted with his spot-kick save and added: “It was a harsh decision, the penalty, but sometimes they go for you and sometimes against.
“The penalty was the same way as against Derby, a nice distance for me but any penalty save is a good save so I was pleased with it.”
He told the Nottingham Evening Post: “I was a bit disappointed with the second goal that went in so I was pleased to have saved the penalty and I think I owed them that one. Their second one has gone through a crowd of players, was a bit of a scuffed shot and I got a little bit on it, but I was disappointed it managed to go into the bottom corner. It is quite easy to make excuses but I still should have saved it.”
Camp's last outing against the Canaries was not a happy one - a 3-0 defeat with QPR at Carrow Road last April. Evening News
Milton Keynes Citizen/James Chard - I was told I wasn't going to play - Gallen
Veteran striker Kevin Gallen has revealed that boss Roberto Di Matteo told him he wasn't part of his plans with the Dons before being loaned out to lowly Luton Town.
The former QPR hitman joins the League Two strugglers until the end of December in order to get some game time.
And the 33-year-old, who has only started one league game for the Dons this season, hinted that his days at stadium:mk are likely to be over, as he searches for more regular football in the twilight of his career.
After starting in the Hatters' 2-1 victory over Dagenham and Redbridge on Saturday Gallen said: "I was pretty much told by the manager that I wasn't going to play. And I'm not one to work all week and sit in the stands or on the bench.
"Mick Harford's given me the chance to come and play some football and I'm really pleased to be doing so."
However Di Matteo said after the 3-1 success at Hartlepool that Gallen had asked him to leave the club.
"He asked me a couple of weeks ago if he could go on the loan transfer list as he wasn't being involved as much as he would have wanted.
"Then Luton came in so we agreed to do the deal until the end of December."
But when asked if the striker would return to action after his loan he said: "It's difficult to say at the moment. Let's just see how he does with Luton and go from there..." Milton Keynes Citizen
BBC- St Aimie has talks with Wrexham
Barnet winger Kieron St Aimie is having further talks with Blue Square Premier side Wrexham.
The 19-year-old former Queens Park Rangers trainee is listed as available for transfer or loan.
St Aimie started this season in the first team but has only made four appearances for the League Two club since, all as a substitute.
Earlier this season the youngster spent a month on loan with Blue Square Premier side Grays Athletic.
Barnet signed St Aimie at the beginning of the year after he was released from Queens Park Rangers. BBC
- Visit the QPR Report Messageboard
- Also: Roberto Mancini Named Serie A Coach of the Year......
- And an observation: With all the QPR transfer rumours/press talk, the deadline for signing loan players is next week. Then the window is closed (except maybe for "emergency loans") till the transfer window opens again, January 1.
Vital Football/QPR on Gorkss to Preston
"Vital QPR can exclusively reveal that Queens Park Rangers defender Kaspars Gorkss is in preliminary talks with another Championship club with a view to a loan deal...has recently been in talks with Preston North End..." - See Full story at: QPR Vital Football
Miror - Wolves target QPR top scorer Dexter Blackstock
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy is ready to make a £1.5million move for QPR striker Dexter Blackstock.
McCarthy is keen to strengthen his side's promotion bid but the wealthy Londoners will not want to lose one of their top players.
QPR are hoping Brazil manager Dunga will help persuade Manchester City's Samba star Elano to join them.
Elano is wanted on loan but he is worried about his international chances if he drops into the Championship. Mirror
BBC: John Gregory on Michael Mancienne
'...And having watched him "cruise" through those reserve games, it was not long before the then QPR boss John Gregory snapped up Mancienne on loan in October 2006.
"I'm a huge fan," Gregory told BBC Sport. "He is better than Terry was at the same age. We fell in love with him at the club. He's very quick, reads the game brilliantly and has the pace to get out of trouble.
"When the ball was played over the top there was no one quicker in the division. He's a dominant central defender and tidies up brilliantly.
"He's brave, tackles well and is really good in the air for not a tall player."
The former Aston Villa and Derby boss managed QPR for a year until October 2007 and despite initially utilising Mancienne as a right-back, enjoyed watching his development into a central defender.
"We questioned whether he would be strong enough," Gregory added. "Chelsea reserves is one thing but Championship life or death games were another.
"He was caught ball-watching occasionally but he has learned from his mistakes. He is outstanding now."
After rejecting the offer of representing the Seychelles (his family moved to the UK three years before his birth), Mancienne captained the England Under 18s before he was called up by Pearce last year.
Mancienne helped England U-21s qualify for the 2009 European Champs
And with a month remaining on his loan period at Wolves, manager Mick McCarthy says Mancienne has been a huge factor in helping his team to a six-point lead at the top of the Championship.
But is he good enough to make the international grade?
McCarthy thinks so, saying Mancienne was "ready" for the next step up, claiming his senior call-up is just part of a "natural progression".
Gregory sees no reason why Mancienne will not earn many England caps, comparing his situation to a similar baptism of fire for Gareth Barry when he was introduced to the senior set-up aged 17.
"So far Mancienne has coped admirably with everything thrown at him," said Gregory, Barry's manager at Aston Villa between 1998-2002.
"Barry came through it all and there is no reason why Mancienne can't do the same.
"If you look at him play you see there's a Rio Ferdinand there. Wolves is a great club for him right now, he's got a very supportive family and he's got a fantastic future."
With injury forcing Rio Ferdinand's absence on Wednesday, Aston Villa's Curtis Davies and Everton's Joleon Lescott in the squad, and the likes of excluded Jonathan Woodgate in good form for Spurs, competition for the England centre-half spots is hot.
If Mancienne's development continues as it has done, his club career may make a few twists and turns, but as far as his international duties are concerned, there seems to be no turning back. BBC
QPR Official Site - Reserves vs Watford Reserves Today
IN RESERVE: LEDESMA SET TO FEATURE
Emmanuel Ledesma and Kaspars Gorkss are both set to feature for QPR Reserves against Watford this afternoon. The duo have been named in an otherwise inexperienced second string for the Totesportcasino.com Combination Cup tie at Loftus Road.
Rangers will be keen to get back to winning ways in the competition, after succumbing to a 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace in their opening Cup fixture of the season earlier this month. The match kicks off at 2.00pm.
Tickets are priced at £5 for adults and £3 for Under-16's. However, Season Ticket holders can enter free of charge, on the production of their booklets.
QPR Reserves (from): Crowther, Ilesanmi, Oastler, Gorkss, Maguire, Ledesma, Smith, Flood, Nanetti, Parker, German, Putnins, Walters, Vanterpool, Wright, Ehme
QPR
The Plymouth Herald - re Simon Walton
"....Meanwhile, out-of-favour midfielder Simon Walton wants to stay and fight for a first team spot after rejecting a loan move to League One club Crewe Alexandra.
The 21-year-old, who signed from Queens Park Rangers in August, decided on Friday he did not want to make the move to Crewe.
Sturrock said: "I can appreciate his situation. He has just had a kid with his partner and she's going to move down here, so he doesn't want to travel away to Crewe, but I had to give him the option because of the lack of (reserve team) games.
"He wants to fight for his place – that's the commitment he has shown – but there is a learning curve for him...."
" Plymouth Herald
LEE CAMP TALKING "WE" -About Nottingham Forest!
Our confidence is on the rise - Camp
City will have to find a way past one of their former goalkeepers in Saturday's televised game at Nottingham Forest - and even a penalty could be far from a for mality.
Lee Camp has saved spot-kicks in Forest's last two away games to earn them vital points in their battle to escape the Championship relegation zone.
On loan at the City Ground from Queens Park Rangers, the 24-year-old 'keeper turned away Michael McIndoe's injury-time penalty to earn a 2-2 draw at Bristol City on Saturday.
Camp also foiled Nacer Barazite from 12 yards to secure a point against his former club, Derby, at Pride Park.
The former England Under-21 'keeper, who played three times for the Canaries during a three-month loan spell two seasons ago, believes Forest are growing in confidence after extending their unbeaten run to four games.
He said: “The more points we get keeps pulling other teams back into that relegation table that is forming and, if we are picking up points, confidence will get higher.
“If you look at how many saves I have to make and what I have to do in a game, it is very minimal. For me, there has not been a bad performance since I have been here.”
Camp was delighted with his spot-kick save and added: “It was a harsh decision, the penalty, but sometimes they go for you and sometimes against.
“The penalty was the same way as against Derby, a nice distance for me but any penalty save is a good save so I was pleased with it.”
He told the Nottingham Evening Post: “I was a bit disappointed with the second goal that went in so I was pleased to have saved the penalty and I think I owed them that one. Their second one has gone through a crowd of players, was a bit of a scuffed shot and I got a little bit on it, but I was disappointed it managed to go into the bottom corner. It is quite easy to make excuses but I still should have saved it.”
Camp's last outing against the Canaries was not a happy one - a 3-0 defeat with QPR at Carrow Road last April. Evening News
Milton Keynes Citizen/James Chard - I was told I wasn't going to play - Gallen
Veteran striker Kevin Gallen has revealed that boss Roberto Di Matteo told him he wasn't part of his plans with the Dons before being loaned out to lowly Luton Town.
The former QPR hitman joins the League Two strugglers until the end of December in order to get some game time.
And the 33-year-old, who has only started one league game for the Dons this season, hinted that his days at stadium:mk are likely to be over, as he searches for more regular football in the twilight of his career.
After starting in the Hatters' 2-1 victory over Dagenham and Redbridge on Saturday Gallen said: "I was pretty much told by the manager that I wasn't going to play. And I'm not one to work all week and sit in the stands or on the bench.
"Mick Harford's given me the chance to come and play some football and I'm really pleased to be doing so."
However Di Matteo said after the 3-1 success at Hartlepool that Gallen had asked him to leave the club.
"He asked me a couple of weeks ago if he could go on the loan transfer list as he wasn't being involved as much as he would have wanted.
"Then Luton came in so we agreed to do the deal until the end of December."
But when asked if the striker would return to action after his loan he said: "It's difficult to say at the moment. Let's just see how he does with Luton and go from there..." Milton Keynes Citizen
BBC- St Aimie has talks with Wrexham
Barnet winger Kieron St Aimie is having further talks with Blue Square Premier side Wrexham.
The 19-year-old former Queens Park Rangers trainee is listed as available for transfer or loan.
St Aimie started this season in the first team but has only made four appearances for the League Two club since, all as a substitute.
Earlier this season the youngster spent a month on loan with Blue Square Premier side Grays Athletic.
Barnet signed St Aimie at the beginning of the year after he was released from Queens Park Rangers. BBC
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Monday, November 17, 2008
Briatore Right. Di Canio Wrong About Mancienne...Helguson Back on?...Managerial Search Back on?
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Interesting Perspective
Dave McIntyre BBC606 - More ammunition for Briatore
- Michael Mancienne’s inclusion in the England squad is potentially bad news for those unhappy with Flavio Briatore’s involvement in team affairs at QPR.
- Like Samuel Di Carmine’s netbuster against Birmingham, news of Mancienne’s call-up will no doubt further convince Briatore that these football ‘experts’ aren’t all they’re cracked up to be, and that he should continue calling the shots.
- Briatore was keen for Rangers to sign Mancienne from Chelsea earlier this year, but former coach Gigi De Canio was against the move.
- De Canio, a man who otherwise had very little say over transfer dealings, managed to convince his bosses not to pursue the player.
- In fact, De Canio was at times reluctant to even select Mancienne when he was at Rangers.
- And even after the Italian was replaced with Iain Dowie, there was no firm move from Rangers to try and bring Mancienne back to Loftus Road.
- I agreed with De Canio and still don’t believe signing Mancienne would have been a good move for Rangers.
- But there are plenty others – England Under-21 boss Stuart Pearce and the vast majority of QPR fans for starters – who regard Mancienne as a top player.
- And since his loan move to Wolves, Mancienne has won new admirers and a place in Fabio Capello’s squad.
- Briatore was an admirer as well, so now has a ready-made response to those who say he should appoint a manager and give him control over buying players.
- And this after Di Carmine, a player he wanted in the team, smashed home a beauty against Birmingham while another of his preferred choices, Damiano Tommasi, won praise for his performance. Briatore has been on a roll.
It won’t last. Anyone who knows anything about football knows that.
- Tommasi, a 34-year-old who has suffered serious injuries to both knees, is beginning to struggle badly after a solid enough start, and was picked apart by Burnley’s youthful midfield on Saturday.
And while Di Carmine has some good attributes, he is not the answer to Rangers’ shortcomings up front.
- Heidar Helguson could be if he can get back his match sharpness and stay fit, but doubts about his long-term fitness led to his proposed transfer from Bolton stalling last week.
- Talks to try and salvage that move will take place over next couple of days, and Helguson could yet join Rangers before Saturday’s match against his former club Watford.
- Whether Gareth Ainsworth is still ‘in charge’ for that game remains to be seen.
- He’s been flavour of the month at Rangers and very much in pole position for the manager’s job since Dowie’s departure, despite more exotic names being linked with the job.
- But the culture of the club is so fickle and volatile, one home defeat was always likely to change that and, sure enough, the search for a manager is now underway in the wake of the loss to Burnley.
- Getting someone to take the job won’t be easy though, for reasons that are now being well documented but existed before the appointment of both De Canio and Dowie - and arguably even before that.
- If Ainsworth stays in caretaker charge and gets a win at Watford, he’ll be the main man again.
- At QPR, you really are only as good as your last game. BBC606
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Interesting Perspective
Dave McIntyre BBC606 - More ammunition for Briatore
- Michael Mancienne’s inclusion in the England squad is potentially bad news for those unhappy with Flavio Briatore’s involvement in team affairs at QPR.
- Like Samuel Di Carmine’s netbuster against Birmingham, news of Mancienne’s call-up will no doubt further convince Briatore that these football ‘experts’ aren’t all they’re cracked up to be, and that he should continue calling the shots.
- Briatore was keen for Rangers to sign Mancienne from Chelsea earlier this year, but former coach Gigi De Canio was against the move.
- De Canio, a man who otherwise had very little say over transfer dealings, managed to convince his bosses not to pursue the player.
- In fact, De Canio was at times reluctant to even select Mancienne when he was at Rangers.
- And even after the Italian was replaced with Iain Dowie, there was no firm move from Rangers to try and bring Mancienne back to Loftus Road.
- I agreed with De Canio and still don’t believe signing Mancienne would have been a good move for Rangers.
- But there are plenty others – England Under-21 boss Stuart Pearce and the vast majority of QPR fans for starters – who regard Mancienne as a top player.
- And since his loan move to Wolves, Mancienne has won new admirers and a place in Fabio Capello’s squad.
- Briatore was an admirer as well, so now has a ready-made response to those who say he should appoint a manager and give him control over buying players.
- And this after Di Carmine, a player he wanted in the team, smashed home a beauty against Birmingham while another of his preferred choices, Damiano Tommasi, won praise for his performance. Briatore has been on a roll.
It won’t last. Anyone who knows anything about football knows that.
- Tommasi, a 34-year-old who has suffered serious injuries to both knees, is beginning to struggle badly after a solid enough start, and was picked apart by Burnley’s youthful midfield on Saturday.
And while Di Carmine has some good attributes, he is not the answer to Rangers’ shortcomings up front.
- Heidar Helguson could be if he can get back his match sharpness and stay fit, but doubts about his long-term fitness led to his proposed transfer from Bolton stalling last week.
- Talks to try and salvage that move will take place over next couple of days, and Helguson could yet join Rangers before Saturday’s match against his former club Watford.
- Whether Gareth Ainsworth is still ‘in charge’ for that game remains to be seen.
- He’s been flavour of the month at Rangers and very much in pole position for the manager’s job since Dowie’s departure, despite more exotic names being linked with the job.
- But the culture of the club is so fickle and volatile, one home defeat was always likely to change that and, sure enough, the search for a manager is now underway in the wake of the loss to Burnley.
- Getting someone to take the job won’t be easy though, for reasons that are now being well documented but existed before the appointment of both De Canio and Dowie - and arguably even before that.
- If Ainsworth stays in caretaker charge and gets a win at Watford, he’ll be the main man again.
- At QPR, you really are only as good as your last game. BBC606
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Roberto Mancini Won't Be QPR's Manager...And Been No Contacts
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Hmm!
Goa.com -Exclusive: Mancini To Real Madrid? Rumours - Agent
Roberto Mancini's representative Maurizio De Giorgis has told Goal.com that reports linking the former Inter coach to Real Madrid are just rumours - although he would welcome the move if the Spanish giants come forward...
Roberto Mancini is currently clubless, but he has been linked with a number of teams around Europe - including Real Madrid
The Spanish giants have been struggling recently and Iberian paper AS had reported that the Italian was the number one candidate for the job if Bernd Schuster was kicked out by unforgiving president Ramon Calderon.
However, Mancio's representative Maurizio De Giorgis has denied the reports - but revealed that Mancini wouldn't mind the Real post should it become available.
"We are pleased with this news regarding the reported interest from Real, it's news for us too but there is nothing official," De Giorgis told Goal.com.
"They are just unfounded rumours as Real Madrid have not been in touch with us regarding Mancini.
"There is nothing official.
"I hope it's not all unfounded news though, but like I said, the Spanish club have not made contact.
"QPR? Absolutely not. We have maximum respect for QPR but I don't think Mancini would go there. If you compare Real Madrid with QPR...
"QPR have not been in touch, neither has Flavio Briatore.
"That is another rumour from the press who have nothing else to write about.
"The Golden Bench award? We are delighted. He deserves the award. He is a great coach and he has won many things and he deserves it."
Mancini will be hoping Real come knocking on the door sooner rather than later.
The former Sampdoria man is looking for a way back into football and there will be no better way than to do it with one of the world's biggest clubs.
Salvatore Landolina - Goal.com
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Hmm!
Goa.com -Exclusive: Mancini To Real Madrid? Rumours - Agent
Roberto Mancini's representative Maurizio De Giorgis has told Goal.com that reports linking the former Inter coach to Real Madrid are just rumours - although he would welcome the move if the Spanish giants come forward...
Roberto Mancini is currently clubless, but he has been linked with a number of teams around Europe - including Real Madrid
The Spanish giants have been struggling recently and Iberian paper AS had reported that the Italian was the number one candidate for the job if Bernd Schuster was kicked out by unforgiving president Ramon Calderon.
However, Mancio's representative Maurizio De Giorgis has denied the reports - but revealed that Mancini wouldn't mind the Real post should it become available.
"We are pleased with this news regarding the reported interest from Real, it's news for us too but there is nothing official," De Giorgis told Goal.com.
"They are just unfounded rumours as Real Madrid have not been in touch with us regarding Mancini.
"There is nothing official.
"I hope it's not all unfounded news though, but like I said, the Spanish club have not made contact.
"QPR? Absolutely not. We have maximum respect for QPR but I don't think Mancini would go there. If you compare Real Madrid with QPR...
"QPR have not been in touch, neither has Flavio Briatore.
"That is another rumour from the press who have nothing else to write about.
"The Golden Bench award? We are delighted. He deserves the award. He is a great coach and he has won many things and he deserves it."
Mancini will be hoping Real come knocking on the door sooner rather than later.
The former Sampdoria man is looking for a way back into football and there will be no better way than to do it with one of the world's biggest clubs.
Salvatore Landolina - Goal.com
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Snippets: Burnley Win Over QPR Bigger Than Chelsea - Teams of the Week...Top 100 Players....Holloway and Dowie Supposedly in Swindon Running
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- No QPR players in Championship Team of the Week. Two Ex-QPRs lower down the League....Top 100 Players of the Year(none from QPR!)
Lancashire Telegraph/Suzanen Geldard - Burnley boss: QPR win was bigger than Chelsea
- BURNLEY manager Owen Coyle admitted Saturday’s Championship win over Queens Park Rangers meant more to him than beating Chelsea.
The Clarets shocked the football world by dumping the Premier League leaders out of the Carling Cup 5-4 on penalties last week.
But Coyle admitted it would have counted for nothing if they hadn’t been able to follow it up by taking three points from Loftus Road.
“This might sound bizarre but I’ll take more enjoyment and pleasure from Saturday’s game,” said the Scot.
“When I was manager of St Johnstone we beat Rangers in a quarter final and on the Saturday we had a poor result; so it was so important to me, as a manager, that we went out and showed we didn’t win (at Chelsea) by accident.
“We didn’t want it to be after the Lord Mayor’s show so that it went flat and lost the sparkle.
“What it does, by winning, I think it helps you enjoy even more what you did d
- No QPR players in Championship Team of the Week. Two Ex-QPRs lower down the League....Top 100 Players of the Year(none from QPR!)
Lancashire Telegraph/Suzanen Geldard - Burnley boss: QPR win was bigger than Chelsea
- BURNLEY manager Owen Coyle admitted Saturday’s Championship win over Queens Park Rangers meant more to him than beating Chelsea.
The Clarets shocked the football world by dumping the Premier League leaders out of the Carling Cup 5-4 on penalties last week.
But Coyle admitted it would have counted for nothing if they hadn’t been able to follow it up by taking three points from Loftus Road.
“This might sound bizarre but I’ll take more enjoyment and pleasure from Saturday’s game,” said the Scot.
“When I was manager of St Johnstone we beat Rangers in a quarter final and on the Saturday we had a poor result; so it was so important to me, as a manager, that we went out and showed we didn’t win (at Chelsea) by accident.
“We didn’t want it to be after the Lord Mayor’s show so that it went flat and lost the sparkle.
“What it does, by winning, I think it helps you enjoy even more what you did d