QPR REPORT

Compilation of Aston Villa Reports...QPR CEO Beard on Transfer Deadline Day...OTD Flashback: Chris Wright Resigns...Strip Terry of Captaincy Petition!

2012-02-02T08:07:00.012Z

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- Series of Photos from Aston Villa vs QPR
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- PETITION to Strip John Terry of the England Captaincy - If you Agree Sign and send on!

- Martin Rowlands Gets a New Club: Colchester United

- 11 Years Ago Today: Chairman Chris Wright Announces QPR Resignation....Five Years Ago QPR Announce "No China Game at Loftus Road"...The QPR Team Lineup from Nine Years Ago

- Dave Clement (RIP): Would Have Been Sixty-Four Today

TELEGRAPH/Philip Beard

Deadline day at Queens Park Rangers - the inside story, by Philip Beard, the club's chief executive

Transfer deadline day started at 5.30am with me worrying whether Djibril Cissé had been forced to sleep in the reception of the hotel where we had sent him. The last I had seen of Djibril had been less than four hours earlier when he and his agent were bundled into the back of a car after he had passed his medical ahead of his move to QPR.

I was then driving home, absolutely on my last legs, when I had got a call at 2.30am from the agent saying they were at the hotel but the hotel could not find their booking. So I was then on the phone to the night porter saying “whatever you do, get him the best room you have – this is a multi-million pound footballer”. I got home at 3am, struggling to sleep, wondering about Djibril.

Almost 24 hours earlier, my seven-year-old daughter had woken me up. Of course, she did not have a clue that I was entering a day that would define QPR's season.

I headed for the stadium, parked up and the television cameras were outside. That was about 8.30am and, soon after, Djibril arrived with us smuggling him through the doors.

My first impression of him – when I had met him the night before – is that he’s a fantastic guy. He has a great sense of humour and was very happy even though he had waited around in Rome all that day. We had a plane on standby that kept missing its slot as negotiations continued with Lazio. Their president eventually spoke to the airport authorities so it could take off.

We got Djibril to a clinic for his medical that night and, while he went in and out of rooms over the next two hours for various scans, I thrashed out his personal terms.

Once at Loftus Road, we went through the paperwork and spent more time with him to ensure he was happy that he had made the right decision and to explain the structure of the club, what we want to achieve and to hear about him and his family. He was then smuggled to the training ground to meet Mark Hughes and the players.

Throughout the transfer window I have tried to focus only on the players on our wanted list. Being newly promoted and under new ownership, we are a buying club. As a result, I get hundreds of calls from hundreds of agents about hundreds of players. The phone did not stop. Yet, in our minds, we had three or four targets.

Some crazy numbers been bandied about over what we have to spend. Most are fictitious, some ridiculous, but the squad read about them. So I have had a lot of conversations with players explaining that, though ambitious, we are also running a business that has to be realistic.

With Djibril done, I turned my attention to Bobby Zamora. With his club being Fulham and with us a rival London side and also in the lower half of the league, I was unsure whether they would sell but had heard that they might.

I called Alistair MacKintosh, their chief executive, and said: “If we made an offer, is it something we could talk about?” I got the feeling that it was. That was about 9am.

Zamora was Plan A and everything was geared to him. But we had to think of a Plan B, C and D. The transfer window is a bit like a chess game. As we were trying to bring Zamora in, we could see how that could work because Fulham were trying to sign a player in Germany. But if that didn’t happen, did we go for Nikica Jelavic, who looked like he was going to Everton, say, or Hugo Rodallega? Or change tack and go for Steven Pienaar?

I focused 100 per cent on Bobby but in the back of my mind I had to be prepared. We agreed Bobby should go for a medical. At that stage I was in discussion with his agent but our figures were miles apart. I was seriously concerned about whether we would find common ground.

While waiting for Bobby to return, we had time to consider one more loan deal. I sat with the club’s owners, Amit Bhatia and Tony Fernandes, on the line. I made about 20 calls to different clubs to see if they were prepared to loan. Most just laughed and said “you have to be kidding”. We were also on the phone to Mark saying “we can do one more thing if Bobby doesn’t happen” but he was just saying “make it happen”.

Bobby returned at about 7pm. I spent some time with him and explained about the takeover, the owners and the vision for the club. I realised this was possibly the most important decision of his career.

He was also interested that we had brought Mark in. That was a big attraction for him, as was the fact that he knew Anton Ferdinand and Shaun Wright-Phillips. We then reconvened with the agent.

As often happens, it was a bit like a Brian Rix farce because you have people in all these different roles — agent, owners, finance people – and you are moving between each trying to make it work.

Then Man City v Everton came on the television and I watched it with Bobby. I saw the handcuffing and wondered whether I should try to handcuff Bobby to one of the goalposts at QPR, using that as a negotiating tactic.

But seriously, you just have to make it work. It’s a compromise, just like any negotiation, but ultimately it had to be a football decision.

At 10.15pm we shook hands on a deal, got the paperwork done and everyone relaxed. We did a bit of high-fiving then, suddenly, everyone was gone and it was finished and I was in my car on the way home. I got there at about 12.15am and realised I was starving.

The buzz was just extraordinary. I was involved in the Olympic bid. It’s not quite like awaiting that decision but, when you’re shaking hands Bobby Zamora or Djibril Cissé having agreed a deal, you feel that you have done something that will be important to the fans. You hope that it means that they will get to watch a team that will stay in the Premier League.

If I can play a small part in that, it will be fantastic. Telegraph

ESPN - QPR's Cisse hits back over racist comments

February 2, 2012

QPR striker Djibril Cisse has reacted angrily after apparently being subjected to racist abuse on Twitter.

Cisse, who joined the west Londoners from Italian side Lazio this week, retweeted two messages seemingly from supporters of the Rome club before turning on his tormentors.

A Twitter user initially targeted the former Liverpool forward with a message saying: "Die n***** b****** Lazio fans hate you!!!!"

Another user then added: "djibril is a big monkey."

The France international, who scored in his new team's 2-2 draw with Aston Villa on Wednesday evening, responded in a series of Tweets.

"Wow u are an idiot man insulting me like this coz I left lazio wow u are a real idiot,'' he responded to the first user.

After the second message was posted Cisse added: "Wow is it the idiot parade today.

"I retweeted them just to show how some people are f****** stupids just because I left a club I'm a f****** n***** who deserve to die or a big monkey?wow I'm really shocked u 2 guys are f****** brainless and u should be f****** ashamed."

The incident is the latest in a number of recent racial flashpoints, with Liverpool striker Luis Suarez currently serving a suspension for comments made to Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra and England captain John Terry standing accused of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand, allegations he denies. ESPN

ASTON VILLA 2 QPR 2 - REPORTS & COMMENTS

Sunderland 23 5 4 3 19 11 3 2 6 13 13 30 8
Stoke 23 4 4 3 15 13 4 2 6 8 22 30 -12
Everton 23 4 3 5 12 13 4 2 5 11 13 29 -3
Norwich 23 4 4 3 17 15 3 4 5 15 24 29 -7
Aston Villa 23 3 4 5 14 16 3 6 2 14 15 28 -3
Fulham 23 5 4 3 22 18 1 5 5 7 14 27 -3
Swansea 23 5 6 1 16 7 1 3 7 8 21 27 -4
West Brom 23 2 2 7 8 14 5 3 4 15 18 26 -9
QPR 23 2 4 5 12 18 3 2 7 12 21 21 -15
Bolton 23 2 2 8 14 25 4 0 7 14 22 20 -19
_____________________________________________
Blackburn 23 3 0 9 16 24 1 6 4 17 23 18 -14
Wolverhampton 23 3 2 7 16 23 1 4 6 9 20 18 -18
Wigan 23 1 4 6 10 21 2 2 8 10 27 15 -28

QPR Official Site - HUGHES: 'A GOOD POINT IN THE END'
Posted on: Thu 02 Feb 2012

Mark Hughes refused to be downbeat, despite seeing his Rangers side surrender a two goal lead to draw 2-2 at Villa Park.

Djibril Cisse's debut goal and a Stephen Warnock own goal handed the R's a dream start, before Darren Bent pulled a goal back on the stroke of half-time.

Charles N'Zogbia set up a grandstand finish with an equaliser 11 minutes from time, but Rangers held on to earn a vital point.

Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Hughes said: "The lads are disappointed in the dressing room, but we've got to look at the positives and this is a good point.

"We had a fantastic start - playing well, creating chances.

"If we'd have gone into the break two goals up at half-time, it might have been a different outcome.

"It would have been more difficult for Villa, but the goal lifted them.

"We knew we'd have to dig in during the second half.

"They were always going to push on in the second period, but we stuck at it and it's a good point in the end.

"A point at Villa Park, especially in the circumstances with very little preparation time with this group, is a good point."

Speaking about Cisse's impact, Hughes added: "We were absolutely delighted with the impact Djibril made.

"I think everybody saw his qualities.

"He was tired towards the end and was cramping up. I had to take him off.

"He's had a long few days and we had to protect him.

"There's so much more to come from him, but he's made a promising start."

http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/TheGaffer/0,,10373~2597066,00.html

SPORTING LIFE

HUGHES SALUTES CISSE IMPACT

Mark Hughes praised QPR striker Djibril Cisse after he marked his debut with a stunning goal in the 2-2 draw at Aston Villa.

Cisse only received clearance to play 90 minutes before kick-off but needed just 12 minutes to score the opening goal.

A Stephen Warnock own goal doubled QPR's lead but Villa snatched a point thanks to Darren Bent's 100th Premier League goal and Charles N'Zogbia's first for the club.

Hughes said: "I thought Cisse was excellent and everyone can understand now why I wanted to bring him to the club.

"We only got clearance for him to play as I was walking into the entrance at Villa Park when a text came through.

"But he is going to be vital for us. He was bright, intelligent and powerful.

"The fact he has already played in the Premier League (with Sunderland and Liverpool) was a factor in signing him because it means he can hit the ground running.

"It is difficult in January to bring players in who do not know the Premier League."

Hughes felt Bent's goal shortly before half-time was the turning point.

He said: "Had we gone in 2-0 up, it would have been more difficult for Villa to come back into the game.

"But the goal gave them a lift, they gained momentum in the second half and we could not stop an equaliser.

"But I was delighted to get something away from home as we have not picked up too many points on our travels this season."

Alex McLeish is demanding his side reproduce their second-half performance for 90 minutes in games after being unhappy with their first-half efforts.

He said: "We showed a lot of resilience again to come back but I was not pleased with the first-half performance.

"The goals were a joke but we were pedestrian, there was no imagination or creation.

"The goal just before half-time gave us an injection and during the break we demanded that we played with a much greater tempo.

"They responded and full credit to them but we need to see that for 90 minutes in games."

N'Zogbia scored his first goal since his £9million summer move from Wigan and McLeish said: "Hopefully that will help to kick-start his season."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/liv.....html&B ID=3660

GUARDIANStuart James

Charles N'Zogbia helps Aston Villa rescue lost cause against QPR

A night that began with Queens Park Rangers celebrating an immediate return on their £4.5m investment in Djibril Cissé on deadline day, ended with Aston Villa rejoicing at the sight of Charles N'Zogbia finally opening his account for the club to complete a stirring comeback.

Trailing to Cissé's brilliantly taken opener – the striker also scored on his Premier League debut for Liverpool and Sunderland – and an own goal that Stephen Warnock will have nightmares about for weeks to come, Villa looked down and out until Darren Bent registered his 100th Premier League goal just before the interval to provide a flicker of hope.

Booed off at the break, Villa were transformed in the second half and got the equaliser they richly deserved when N'Zogbia, a £9.5m signing from Wigan in the summer, crashed home Stilian Petrov's centre with a superb volley. It was a goal that denied Mark Hughes his first win at Villa Park as a manager in eight attempts and, in the process, provided Alex McLeish with some respite. The natives remain restless in these parts and a fifth home defeat in six matches would have been hard to stomach.

For Rangers, there was disappointment that such a promising start had failed to yield the three points that would have put daylight between themselves and the bottom three. Jamie Mackie will rue the moment he was unable to connect with a cross from Shaun Wright-Phillips to make it 3-1, although that was a rare Rangers attack in a second half when Villa's creative trio of Stephen Ireland, Robbie Keane and N'Zogbia became increasingly influential.

Cissé was certainly that in the easy stages, his pace and movement catching the eye every bit as much as his blue boots and Mohican haircut. His early goal, which was his first in the Premier League since he scored for Sunderland against Hull in April 2009, was dispatched with aplomb, his low shot drilled into the far corner after the ball had dropped kindly for him following Ireland's attempted block on Wright-Phillips.

"I thought Cissé was excellent," Hughes said. "I think everybody understands why I wanted to bring him to the club. I thought he was bright, he was intelligent with his running and showed the power and pace that we all now that he has, and it was a good finish as well. He's going to be vital for us because that's something we haven't had in the football club before, in terms of his quality, power and technical ability."

Bobby Zamora, another deadline day signing, was ineligible and Hughes revealed that it had been a close call as to whether Cissé took part. Asked when he knew that Cissé had been granted international clearance, Hughes replied: "I think we were about 20 yards from the [Villa Park] entrance. I got a text but I didn't tell him because I wanted him to focus. I thought I was being clever but when I got in the dressing room his agent had told him already, so it was a waste of time."

If McLeish was annoyed that Cissé was left totally unmarked for his goal, it was nothing compared to the dismay he felt when Warnock headed a cross from another Rangers debutant, Taye Taiwo, into his own net in farcical circumstances. Warnock, who was booed by the Villa fans later in the half, after a wayward cross ended up in row Z, seemed to think that Richard Dunne was going to head the ball clear. McLeish buried his head in his hands in the dug-out and not even the sight of Bent stabbing home Alan Hutton's cross on the stroke of half-time could paper over the cracks of a listless opening 45 minutes.

"I just couldn't believe the first-half performance," McLeish said. "The goals were a joke. It was a pedestrian performance. We never penetrated, there was no running off the ball, no imagination or creation. We spoke at half-time and we demanded that if you play in a Villa jersey, it's got to be a much quicker tempo, especially in front of our own fans. And they responded. But I would love to see them playing in the first half, like we did in the second half. We've got to be at it every game."

Villa should have had a chance to level from the penalty spot early in the second half, when Shaun Derry clearly blocked Ciaran Clark's shot with a raised hand, but the referee, Neil Swarbrick, waved away the home appeals.

The home team were, though, cranking up the pressure on Rangers and there was a sense of inevitability about the equaliser. Ireland helped to create it, with a sublime reverse pass that released Petrov. When the Bulgarian crossed to the far post, N'Zogbia executed a sumptuous volley. "Hopefully that kick-starts his Villa career," said McLeish. "In the second half he was much more electric."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/feb/01/aston-villa-qpr-premier-league

TELEGRAPH/Henry Winter

Aston Villa 2 Queens Park Rangers 2: match report
Read a full match report of the Premier League game between Aston Villa and Queens Park Rangers at Villa Park on Wednesday Jan 31, 2012.

Djibril Cissé and QPR started this entertaining game in style but Aston Villa finished by far the stronger, and were unfortunate not to win. Only Paddy Kenny’s reflexes kept QPR in it.
So cautious in the early stages, when a Cissé strike and a surreal Stephen Warnock own goal put Rangers in charge, Villa responded impressively. Darren Bent clinically and Charles N’Zogbia flamboyantly brought Villa level but Kenny denied them further reward. Rangers ended with a point and the memory of Cissé’s strong debut.
The final piece of paperwork from Lazio to the FA had gone through 90 minutes before kick-off, so clearing Cissé to play. After the red tape had been unravelled, the £4 million striker cut through the claret-and-blue defence as if were ribbon. QPR’s tactics had clearly been to release Cissé as quickly as possible, using his pace to get behind Richard Dunne and the hapless Warnock on the left of Villa’s back four.

The Frenchman, returning to the Premier League, hit the ground running, scoring and putting in a first-half display of back-heels and back-flips that had the visiting fans purring. “There’s only one Cissé,’’ they chanted. Newcastle United fans will disagree but this was love at first sight between QPR and their new No 23.

Cisse was unstoppable, scoring a good goal after Shaun Wright-Phillips had somehow laid the ball into his path. As the Holte End looked on in horror, the unmarked Cissé hammered the ball past Shay Given. His celebration was even better, that familiar collection of flips getting an airing.

Villa could not deal with him. Warnock had already welcomed him back with a strong challenge, leaving him spinning on the turf and appealing to Neil Swarbrick for action. The referee ignored the claims.
His movement was too much for Villa. He almost scored a second with an acrobatic volley. He then raced away from Dunne, never an equal sprint race, and lifted in a cross that was just too high for Wright-Phillips. The England winger was working the left, occasionally moving central, and linking well with Cissé, who found him with a neat back-heel midway through the half.

Jamie Mackie provided the width on the right while Rob Hulse partnered Cissé . The prospect of Bobby Zamora, who did not sign in time for this game, forming an exciting attacking axis with Cissé also warmed the hearts of the QPR fans on a freezing night.
Alex McLeish became increasingly frustrated with Warnock, shouting instructions at the left-back, who had rarely been in favour with Gerard Houllier. Warnock’s stock fell even lower than the temperature when addressing a seemingly harmless cross from Taye Taiwo, the visitors’ new left-back.
Warnock’s reaction was extraordinary, resembling a sports-shy schoolboy trying to get out of games. Instead of heading clear, Warnock headed the ball firmly past Given. Villa’s keeper has been down this road before with Warnock, even saving from his team-mate against Everton, but he had no chance there. Warnock’s header flew between Given and upright.
The Holte End howled. McLeish held his head in his hands. Yet his team responded, their momentum accelerated by the waning of QPR’s initial adrenalin charge.
Robbie Keane was inevitably involved, firing goalwards and forcing Paddy Kenny to push the danger away. Dunne then Ciaran Clark threatened. Villa screamed for a penalty when Mackie appeared to handle. Still the hosts pressed, knowing the level of opprobrium that could await them at the break. Bent headed wide.
The pressure told when Keane found Alan Hutton down the right and the Scot drilled the ball across low and hard, perfectly for the clever run of Bent. The England striker stole a march on his marker, nipping in to score with a typical first-time finish for his 100th Premier League, becoming the 22nd man to achieve the feat.
Though trailing only 2-1, the mood among the Villa faithful was initially still unforgiving, with some boos ringin out.

But the Holte End was soon at its supportive best as the second half opened. Villa were attacking this famous bank of humanity, and every fan shouted for a penalty when Clark’s strike hit Shaun Derry’s hand. Swarbick waved play on.
Back came Villa again, Stiliyan Petrov and Keane thwarted by Kenny.Then Charles N’Zogbia raced through the gears, sprinting into the box until closed down by Joey Barton.
Rangers’ third debutant, Nedum Onuoha, was settling in well in defence, helping Barton to frustrate N’Zogbia and attempting to deal with the rising claret-and-blue tide. Bent almost found a way through but Taiwo was too substantial a barrier.

McLeish had introduced Barry Bannan’s subtle gifts into the fray. He tried his luck with a long-range free-kick that thudded into the QPR wall.
Hughes’ side were defending increasingly deep. Cissé was a distant figure.
Villa took increasing advantage. Stephen Ireland released Petrov down the right and his cross was met magnificently by N’Zogbia, who drove the ball past Kenny.
Villa were terrific. Bent had a shot cleared off the line then Kenny saved brilliantly from N’Zogbia. Again. Telegraph

ASTON VILLA OFFICIAL SITE

McLeish proud of fightback but frustrated with start against QPR
Alex McLeish on QPR draw.1st Feb 2012

By Paul Brown

Alex McLeish was proud of the brilliant fightback from his players against QPR - but annoyed that they couldn't turn on the style from the start.

McLeish was impressed with the way his stars dug in to turn the match around from two-down early on.

But he was frustrated with the way they conceded two "joke" goals and gave themselves a mountain to climb.

The boss wants accomplished displays for 90 minutes in coming games.

He said: "I just couldn't believe the first half performance. The goals were a joke.

"It was a pedestrian performance. Although we probably had more of the ball, we never penetrated.

"There was no running off the ball, no imagination, no creation.

"But the goal just before half-time gave us an injection.

"We spoke at half-time and we told them that wearing the Villa jersey it has to be a much quicker tempo, especially in front of the home fans.

"They responded, credit to them for their recovery.

"They have done that a few times this season but I would love to see us play in the first half the way we played in the second half.

"We have to be at it in every single game. We can't turn it on and off.

"We can't have slow possession and then turn speed up like Man City. We have to play at a more dynamic style.

"You do think 'is it going to be our night' after the chances we had but the one thing about the education of players is that you never give up. You just never give up. You go to final whistle.

"But they should have done that from the start, they may have won the game.

"It's a little bit of nervousness for some reason. We had 10 internationals out there and I feel they must show that international experience.

"International players have 15-20 games in a row showing consistency. But we are having a wee bit of inconsistency just now and we need to put that right.

"It's sucker goals we're losing, not in keeping with what I expect in terms of the experience we have back there.

"But they have shown their resilience in other games, like Chelsea in the fantastic win, Wolves in the second half where they rolled up the sleeves and showed great character.

"If we can show more composure throughout, we will be a better team for it."

While McLeish felt mixed-emotions after the slow start and stunning comeback, he was steadfast in his view on Villa's penalty appeal in the second half.

Shaun Derry appeared to handle in the box but referee Neil Swarbrick waved away protests.

McLeish added: "We were unlucky.

"Shaun definitely stopped the ball heading for the top corner.

"I don't know why his hand is up by his face, maybe he was protecting it.

"You weren't allowed to put your hand in front of your stomach or your chest or your face when I played. You have to take it square on and be brave."
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2597116,00.html

BBC - Alistair Magowan
BBC Sport
Aston Villa recovered from two goals down to draw with Queens Park Rangers as Djibril Cisse scored on his debut.
The French striker, who signed for QPR from Lazio on Tuesday, fired in after a blocked Shaun Wright-Phillips shot.
Stephen Warnock scored a bizarre own goal from Taye Taiwo's cross to double the lead, before Darren Bent pulled one back from Alan Hutton's centre.
Villa bossed the second half and grabbed a second when Charles N'Zogbia volleyed in Stiliyan Petrov's cross.
Having spluttered through the first half, Villa were only prevented from completing a superb turnaround by some last-ditch QPR defending.
Tommy Smith denied Darren Bent on the line, while Paddy Kenny was called into action on several occasions as the hosts looked a completely different team after the break.
But with his side having failed to win any of their previous five home games, McLeish will at least be thankful he got a response after the visitors dominated the opening period.
BENT AND CISSE LANDMARKS
Darren Bent's goal was his 100th in the Premier League, the 22nd player to achieve that mark
Cisse's goal means he has scored on his debut for Liverpool, Sunderland and QPR
QPR boss Mark Hughes captured Cisse and Bobby Zamora barely 24 hours before this game. Zamora was unable to feature, and Cisse was only cleared to play an hour before kick-off after paperwork delays from his former club.
But after a firm challenge from Warnock welcoming him back to English football, the 30-year-old former Liverpool striker wasted little time in having an impact on his first game in the Premier League since May 2009.
Jamie Mackie was involved in the build-up and when Wright-Phillips had his shot blocked the ball fell to Cisse, who made no mistake by firing an angled shot into the bottom corner from 12 yards.
With both teams knocked out of the FA Cup at the weekend, this game gave them the opportunity to concentrate on their league form and despite being four places beneath their opponents in the table, it was QPR who started with far more purpose.
Despite featuring debutants Taiwo and Nedum Onuoha, they doubled their lead in fortunate circumstances just before the half hour when Warnock, under no pressure, headed Taiwo's cross past Shay Given into his own net from eight yards.
McLeish was understandably dumbfounded but the goal finally drew a response from the hosts with Richard Dunne's header saved by Kenny, while Robbie Keane's deflected shot hit the bar.
Villa also had a handball claim when N'Zogbia's through ball clipped Mackie's hand, but it was not long before they reduced the deficit.
Keane approached the QPR defence before passing wide to Hutton, and the Scot's low cross was met by Bent for his 10th goal of the season.
The hosts continued in the same vein after the break, with Kenny saving shots from Petrov and Keane, while Ciaran Clark had a very good penalty appeal rejected after his strike cannoned off Shaun Derry's arm.
And by the hour mark the game had turned, with QPR struggling to contain Villa, who were stringing together a series of attacks.
Hughes's side had a great opportunity to restore their two-goal lead against the run of play when, following a corner, Mackie mistimed an attempted shot from Wright-Phillips's low centre with the ball fizzing through his legs.
But that remained an isolated chance for the visitors, and Bent could have drawn Villa level before N'Zogbia made his mark on his return to the side in place of the injured Gabriel Agbonlahor by hitting a sweetly-timed volley to level matters.
That was the cue for the Villa supporters to find their voice and only Tommy Smith's goal-line clearance prevented Bent from grabbing a winner.
QPR were also thankful to debutant Onuhoa who, along with Kenny, was a solid foil in defence as the visitors grabbed a well-earned point.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16714062

QPR Official Site

Aston Villa came from two goals behind to earn a share of the spoils with the R's.

QPR enjoyed the perfect start when Djibril Cisse put the visitors in front just 12 minutes into his Rangers debut.

Stephen Warnock then put through his own net in the 29th minute to double the R's advantage, with Mark Hughes' men appearing to be on their way to back-to-back Premier League victories for the first time since December 1995.

Darren Bent, however, reduced the arrears when he struck his 100th Premier League goal on the stroke of half-time - and that shaped how the second period would pan out.

Indeed, Villa dominating proceedings after the break and, after Charles N'Zogbia equalised for the hosts on 79 minutes, they laid siege on the R's goal.

But Rangers held on - that despite four minutes of second-half stoppage time - to earn a point.

Hughes handed debuts to three new signings at Villa Park - and made five changes in total from the team that lined up against Chelsea in the FA Cup last weekend.

Cisse, Nedum Onuoha and Taiwo all began for Rangers, while there were also places in the starting XI for Shaun Derry and Rob Hulse - making his first QPR start since April.

Paddy Kenny was in goal for Rangers, in a now accustomed 4-4-2 formation under Hughes.

Former Villan Luke Young, Onuoha, Anton Ferdinand and Taiwo made up Rangers' back four.

Jamie Mackie and Shaun Wright-Phillips occupied the wide positions in midfield, with skipper Joey Barton and Shaun Derry in the middle.

Cisse was partnered by Hulse in attack.

Ironically, it was 35 years to the day that these two sides met in a semi-final first leg in the 1967 League Cup - a goalless draw at Loftus Road.

The R's, of course, would go on to win that particular competition and Hoops fans will no doubt remember our third round Carling Cup defeat of Villa back in September 2008.

Damion Stewart's second-half header sealed a memorable victory in the Midlands.

This time, it was the bread and butter of the league campaign, but a similar result would have provided a timely tonic for QPR in the battle to beat the drop.

Seven points separated these two prior to kick-off. The R's knew that a win would close the gap on hosts Villa and, with that, increase the distance between themselves and the bottom three.

The conditions were bitter but Rangers made a dream start, taking the lead after only 12 minutes.

Neat interplay in midfield involving Derry and Mackie concluded with the ball finding Wright-Phillips, whose scuffed shot fell into the path of Cisse in the box.

The R's debutant needed no second invitation thereafter, lashing an unstoppable drive into the left-hand corner of the net, leaving Villa keeper Shay Given with no chance.

The home side responded two minutes later, with Bent shooting straight at Kenny from just outside the penalty area.

But Rangers - and Cisse - almost added a second goal under a minute later.

Barton picked up possession down the left-hand channel and, when the Liverpudlian's clip into the box found Cisse at the back post, his downward volley was collected by Given.

Play soon switched to the opposite end, where Ciaran Clark fired an effort into the hands of Kenny, following Stiliyan Petrov's knock-down.

QPR's second goal of the night eventually arrived just short of the half-hour mark - that thanks to helping hand from the home side.

Wright-Phillips found the advancing Taiwo on the left and, when his looping centre fell to Warnock in the box, the Villa defender got his attempted cushioned header back to Given all wrong, diverting the ball into the bottom left-hand corner.

Despite going two behind, Villa raised their performance as the half wore on.

Rangers had Kenny to thank for a fine point-blank save from Richard Dunne's header on 33 minutes, following Petrov's corner from the right.

Soon after, Robbie Keane saw an effort from the edge of the box deflect off Derry and crash back off the bar.

Bent then saw a header go just wide after Hutton's centre on 41 minutes - but the England hot-shot didn't spurn his next opportunity, halving the deficit on the stroke of half-time.

Stephen Ireland and Keane combined to free Hutton down the right-hand side of the box, before the Scot's low centre was fired home by Bent.

Villa continued to threaten at the start of the second period.

Kenny was forced into a low stop to block away Petrov's stinging effort on 50 minutes, after the R's failed to clear their lines following a free-kick.

Alex McLeish's side then had strong appeals for a penalty waived away, after Petrov's shot appeared to clatter against the outstretched arm of Derry in the box.

The home side's strong start to the second half saw Rangers chief Hughes take action, with Tommy Smith brought on to replace Hulse.

However, Villa siege continued. Kenny was forced into a superb low save to thwart Keane, before Rangers cleared the danger.

At the other end, Taiwo's low shot from an acute angle was taken at the second attempt by Given, before Mackie somehow swiped at Wright-Phillips' cross-come-shot without connecting from close range.

But the R's were still defending for their lives. Bent was unlucky not to see his header creep in at the right-hand post, following Hutton's centre from the right.

Villa's unrelenting pressure forced Hughes into another substitution in the 73rd minute, with Hogan Ephraim replacing Derry. That also saw QPR adopt a 4-1-4-1 formation.

The change in personnel - and shape - couldn't halt the home side's revival, however, with Villa notching a deserved leveller 11 minutes from time.

Ireland picked out Keane down the right and, when his cross found N'Zogbia at the back post, he drilled a low effort into the bottom left-hand corner of the net.

Villa almost struck a winner with seven minutes left on the clock.

Petrov's corner eventually fell to Bent, whose snap-shot was cleared off the line by Smith, before Keane's second effort was blocked away by Mackie for a corner.

N'Zogbia's blast from 20 yards was then tipped away by the diving right arm of Kenny four minutes from time.

Aston Villa: Given, Hutton, Cuellar, Dunne, Warnock, Petrov, Clark (Bannan 70), Ireland, Keane, N'Zogbia, Bent.

Subs: Guzan, Weimann, Baker, Lichaj, Heskey, Gardner.

Goals: Bent (45), N'Zogbia (79)

QPR: Kenny, Derry (Ephraim 73), Mackie, Barton, Young, Hulse (Smith 54), Cisse (Macheda 81), Wright-Phillips, Taiwo, Ferdinand, Onuoha.

Subs: Cerny, Hill, Hall, Ephraim, Balanta.

Goals: Cisse (12), Warnock (OG 29)

Bookings: Young (50)

Referee: Mr N Swarbrick

Attendance: 32,063
http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10373~59504,00.htm

QPR Report Wednesday Update: Transfer Day Aftermath...Aston Villa

2012-02-01T07:52:00.013Z

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- Petition to Strip John Terry of the England Captaincy - If you Agree Sign and send on!
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QPR's encounter earlier this season against Aston Villa: Match Reports
- QPR: Kenny, Young, Ferdinand, Hall, Traore, Faurlin, Derry, Wright-Phillips, Taarabt, Barton, Bothroyd. Subs: Murphy, Orr, Campbell, Buzsaky, Connolly, Smith, Helguson.
- Aston Villa: Given, Hutton, Collins, Dunne, Warnock, Petrov, Ireland, Delph, N'Zogbia, Agbonlahor, Bannan. Subs: Guzan, Albrighton, Delfouneso, Beye, Weimann, Lowry, Gardner.
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- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_______________________________________________________________________________________

Welcome to Cisse and Zamora: Goodbye and good luck to Rowlands (many years of QPR Service), Bradley Orr, Moen and Connolly (Loaned to Reading)

- NEXT: Aston Villa: Flashback Results/Shared Players/Photos/Video

- Deadline Day Transfers

- Why Does the PRemier League Have a January Transfer Window?

- Updated QPR Transfer Gossip Articles (Go to last page and work back!)

- Birthdays today for Two Great QPR #10s...and 35 Years AGo Today: QPR's League Cup Semi Final (First Leg) vs Aston Villa

- Five Year Flashback: Dean Parrett Sold to Spurs

- Judgement Day (Part I) Today for John Terry.

GUARDIAN/Jamie Jackson
Lure of Mark Hughes attracts Bobby Zamora and Djibril Cissé to QPR
• Zamora rejoins manager he 'got on really well with at Fulham'
• 'I am finally here with him,' says long-term Hughes target Cissé

QPR have signed Bobby Zamora from Fulham, where he worked under Mark Hughes last season. Photograph: Glyn Kirk/AFP/Getty Images
Bobby Zamora moved to Queens Park Rangers from Fulham inside the final hour of the transfer window in a deal worth up to £7m, with the club also securing Djibril Cissé from Lazio for £4m.

QPR were the only club interested in buying Zamora, who worked under Mark Hughes at Craven Cottage when the latter was manager during the 2010‑11 season. An initial fee of £6m could rise when add‑ons based on appearances, goals and the club's finishing position this season are factored in.

The deal dragged on late into the night while the 31-year-old discussed personal terms. Sources at Fulham stated that Zamora had wanted to double his £45,000 weekly wage before he would agree to move.

However, it is thought Zamora finally settled for a wage of around £50,000, and signed a two‑and‑a‑half‑year deal. The striker has scored seven goals in 30 appearances this season for Fulham, although there have been rumours of a breakdown in relations with the manager, Martin Jol. He will wear the No52 shirt at QPR but is not eligible to feature against Aston Villa on Wednesday night.

"QPR are certainly a club that are looking to go forward," Zamora said. "That's something that I'm looking forward to being a part of. I got on really well with the manager at Fulham. We all grew to like Mark. I think that will be the case here. He's looking to take the club forward.

"I think this was the right time for me to have a fresh challenge. I had some great experiences at Fulham. Going to a European final is special. But this is a new challenge for myself and I'm thoroughly looking forward to it.

"The ambition of the club was certainly a drawing factor as well. I've been lucky enough to speak to Tony [Fernandes, the owner], and Phil [Beard, the chief executive] relayed a lot of messages about where this club want to go. For me, it was quite an easy decision to be a part of this. The sky's the limit. We're looking to go forward and to grow and I want to be a part of that."

Hughes said: "Bobby is a guy that makes things happen on the pitch, be it scoring goals or creating chances for others. He's a great foil for any team. We needed a player of his ilk at the club and I couldn't be more delighted.

"He was the difference for us at Fulham last season. He came back from injury and he made such an impact in the second half of the campaign. He's got great power and pace and his technical ability is top class. He's got an excellent left foot."

With QPR just two points above the relegation zone having scored 22 league goals – more only than Wigan – Hughes further bolstered his attacking options with the recruitment of Cissé to partner Zamora.

"When I talked to the manager, he spoke highly of the club and where he wants to take it over the next few years," said Cissé. "He wanted to sign me at Manchester City and now I am finally here with him at QPR. He wants to achieve big things here – that was all I needed to hear from him."

The 30-year-old joined on a two-and-a-half‑year contract and he could feature at Aston Villa on Wednesday evening, with Hughes saying of him: "I rate Djibril very, very highly. I've watched him for many years and always been impressed by what he brings to the table. He's a huge threat to opposition's defences. He's got great pace, power and movement and that's something we will hopefully benefit from.

"His goal record is there for everyone to see. He's scored goals wherever he's played. His record speaks for itself. He was desperate to come here once we showed our interest in him and we can't wait to get the best out of him."

Cissé has scored 161 goals in 282 league appearances, the Frenchman scoring in the top flights of England, France, Italy and Greece. Guardian

With almost all the focus (naturally) on the signings, not to forget the departures, who in the case of Rowlands, Orr and Connolly played their part in putting us where we are today:

QPR Official Site

ROWLANDS DEPARTS
Posted on: Tue 31 Jan 2012

Long-serving midfielder Martin Rowlands has left the Club by mutual consent with immediate effect.

Rowlands, 32, was brought to Loftus Road by then-QPR boss Ian Holloway back in July 2003 from Brentford.

The former Rangers skipper went on to make over 200 appearances in all competitions for the R's during an eight-and-a-half year stay, scoring 37 goals.

The Club would like to thank Martin for his huge contribution to the Club during his time here and wish him every success for the future. QPR

QPR Official Site
CONNORS PENS ROYALS LOAN
Posted on: Tue 31 Jan 2012

R's defender Matt Connolly has joined npower Championship outfit Reading on loan until the end of the campaign.
The versatile 24 year-old, who originally moved to Loftus Road from Arsenal back in January 2008, has made 125 appearances for the R's, scoring twice.

Connolly will remain at the Madejski Stadium until the end of the season. QPR

QPR Official Site - ORR PENS ROVERS MOVE
Posted on: Tue 31 Jan 2012

Bradley Orr has joined Blackburn Rovers for an undisclosed fee.

The 29 year-old has penned a two-and-a-half year deal at Ewood Park.

Orr joined QPR from Bristol City in July 2010 and was a regular in our Championship-winning squad last season.

This season, he featured in eight league and cup fixtures, including making two starts in the Premier League.

The Club wishes Bradley all the best for the future. QPR

QPR Official Site - PVM DEPARTS
Posted on: Tue 31 Jan 2012

Petter Vaagan Moen has left QPR by mutual consent with immediate effect.

The Norwegian midfielder, who joined the R's in January 2011 following the expiration of his deal at SK Brann, made just two starts and six substitute appearances for the Club.

The Club would like to wish Petter all the best for the future. QPR

- Two Year Flashback: "Red Nose Day" Protest vs Briatore - as Mick Harford's QPR Crash at Home to Scunthorpe

Transfer Deadline Day: A Day of "Wishing and Hoping and Thinking and Praying...."

2012-01-31T09:54:00.005Z

QPR Report Monday Update: Signings & Departures?...Chelsea...Aston Villa...Flashback: "Red Nose Day" Protest

2012-01-30T08:35:00.017Z

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- Bert Adinall (RIP): Would Have been 91 Today - Bert Addinall middle of the Front Row - (Back row: Left to Right: Lew Clayton John Poppitt Harry Brown George Powell Des Farrow Reg Chapman. Front Row Seated: Left to Right: Billy Waugh Conway Smith, Bert Addinall, Harry Gilberg Ernie Shepherd).
-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_______________________________________________________________________________________

- NEXT: Aston Villa: Flashback Results/Shared Players/Photos/Video

- Updated QPR Transfer Gossip Articles (Go to last page and work back!)

- Two Year Flashback: "Red Nose Day" Protest vs Briatore - as Mick Harford's QPR Crash at Home to Scunthorpe

- Compilation of QPR vs Chelsea Match Reports

- Today's QPR Birthdays: Peter Crouch turns 31...Bert Adinall (RIP) would have been 91)

- SHOCK AS CHARITY REVEAL 122 FOOTBALLERS ARE IN JAIL

- Photo Compilation of QPR and Chelsea Fans and the Security/Police Measures
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- See Also: 130 Photos from QPR vs Chelsea

- Oliver Holt/The Mirror -Oliver Holt on bullets and boos - the cost of being black and standing your ground

- Ex-QPR Director, Kevin Steele (Under Caliendo-Paladini) Sentenced to 5 1/2 Prison - and Steele/QPR Flashbacks

PLAYERS OUT?

Dave McIntyre/West London Sport QPR look to offload unwanted players

QPR are set to step up efforts to offload their unwanted players and reduce the size of their huge squad.

Norwegian misfit Petter Vaagan Moen is looking for a new club having failed to make an impact since his move to Loftus Road.

And the likes of Martin Rowlands, Patrick Agyemang, Lee Cook, Bruno Perone, Dan Shittu, Rowan Vine and Gary Borrowdale will all cut their ties with Rangers before their contracts expire if a financial agreement can be reached.

“We’re near to the transfer window closing and these decisions have got to be made.”

Discussions took place with some of those players prior to Mark Hughes’ recent appointment and the new manager intends to make a fresh effort to pay them up and move them on.

Hughes said: “It was an option discussed with a number prior to me getting the job here. We’ll have to revisit those conversations and see if they’re appropriate now.”

But Hughes also admitted he had sympathy for the likes of Hogan Ephraim and Rob Hulse, who have endured a period of uncertainty since his arrival.

They were set to leave after being told they would not feature under Warnock, but Hughes put a temporary block on outgoing transfers in order to assess all of the squad he inherited.

Hughes has no plans to hand them a reprieve, with confirmation of their availability alerting a number of clubs.

Ephraim is set to move on.
Ephraim is a target for a couple of Championship sides and League One leaders Charlton, where he spent a spell on loan this season, while Hulse last year snubbed a loan move to Doncaster because his family now live in the south.

Clint Hill’s future is also in some doubt following the arrival of Nigerian left-back Taye Taiwo, while Bradley Orr has been made available to other clubs.

Hughes told West London Sport: “I’ve been really impressed by Bradley to be fair. But we’re near to the transfer window closing and these decisions have got to be made.

“There are players who had been told that maybe their future lay elsewhere prior to me coming in and they made plans - then all of a sudden there’s been a change [of manager].

“That put a few guys in two minds over whether or not they might have a future here.

“It’s been difficult because we’re right in the middle of a transfer window. Ideally you would give everybody a real crack of the whip.

“We’ve tried to get an understanding of what we’ve got in the building while at the same time try to win matches, and that’s been difficult. West London Sport

Paul Warbutron/Fulham Chronicle - QPR ready to terminate six contracts

QPR are set to terminate the contracts of six players in an overcrowded training ground that could also herald surprise loan exits for Clint Hill and Bradley Orr.

The two full backs have been part of new boss Mark Hughes’s squads, with Hill starting the last eight games including Saturday’s FA Cup defeat to Chelsea where he was unlucky to concede the match-winning penalty.

However, the imminent arrival of Taye Taiwo on loan from AC Milan and Armand Traore returning from the African Cup of Nations duty sees Hill (pic) down the pecking order. And the Liverpool-born defender already admitted he planned to sort out his Rs future this month.

Hughes revealed the option to pay up others was discussed before he arrived, and was ready to wield an axe sharpened by previous manager Neil Warnock.

The most likely to leave with some sort of settlement on their remaining deals are Martin Rowlands, Lee Cook, Petter Vaagan Moen, Gary Borrowdale, Bruno Andrade and Rowan Vine – none of whom have featured in Rangers Premier League campaign.

Patrick Agyemang and Hogan Ephraim are also thought be looking for new clubs either as loanees or as permanent signings.

Hughes said: “There are a few guys in two minds as to whether they have a future here. And we’ve tried to involve people in the training that wasn’t happening before. But there will come a moment when we’ve got to name a 25-man squad and that might affect players’ decisions.

“(Paying up contracts) was an option discussed with a number prior to me getting the job here.

“So we’ll have to revisit those conversations and see if they’re appropriate now.” Fulham Chronicle

Dave McIntyre/West London Sport - Defender Orr set for Loftus Road exit

Defender Bradley Orr has been made available by QPR ahead of the transfer deadline.

The 29-year-old was told prior to Neil Warnock’s sacking as manager that his future probably lay elsewhere.

And with the signing of Nedum Onuoha having pushed him further down the pecking order, Orr will be allowed to leave Loftus Road either on a permanent basis or on loan if an offer is made.

Warnock’s successor Mark Hughes placed a temporary block on players leaving the club in order to assess his squad, but has now paved the way for Orr to move on.

Two Championship clubs have shown an interest in the full-back, who joined Rangers from Bristol City in the summer of 2010 in what was effectively an exchange deal involving Damion Stewart.

He played over 250 times for City during six years at Ashton Gate and has made 39 league appearances for QPR, six of them coming this season. West London Sport

Guardian/Dominic Fifield

QPR co-owner calls for video challenge system for referee decisions
• Amit Bhatia unhappy at award of crucial Chelsea penalty
• QPR sign midfielder Samba Diakité on loan from Nancy

The Queens Park Rangers co-owner and vice-chairman, Amit Bhatia, has called for the introduction of a challenge system similar to that used in cricket and tennis after seeing the club eliminated from the FA Cup by Chelsea courtesy of a dubious penalty.

The referee, Mike Dean, awarded the visitors a spot-kick just after the hour on Saturday when Daniel Sturridge fell to the turf under challenge from Clint Hill. Contact appeared minimal, with QPR incensed at the decision as Juan Mata converted the resultant spot-kick.

The Rangers manager, Mark Hughes, said Sturridge had gone down "a little bit easily" and claimed Dean had told his goalkeeper, Paddy Kenny, that he had felt obliged to give the penalty "because the lad was about to head the ball in, which wasn't my take on it, to be perfectly honest".

"A very unfortunate penalty," said Bhatia via Twitter. "I'm convinced it's time to allow the challenge system in football. Almost all other sports around the world allow it now. We have to have some kind of video replay system so that harsh decisions can be reviewed. So much is at stake in every game. In a season when results count, every decision really does matter and I can already think of a few decisions that have cost us points [in the Premier League].

"And it's not just us, but all the other clubs too. Mistakes are made. Decisions are difficult and that's fine, but why not allow those difficult decisions to be reviewed? One challenge per half per manager wouldn't slow the game down by any more than 30 seconds. I think it's got to happen. Every fan and player in the land would appreciate a fair review of a difficult decision. It's not rocket science. And my rant isn't about today's decision. It's a general observation about football and applies to us all who want fairer decisions."

Those sentiments were shared by the QPR captain, Joey Barton, who described the penalty award as "very, very soft" having seen footage of the incident. "Sturridge stepping on that landmine does not help the ref, either," he tweeted. "This is why referees should be allowed to look at penalty and red card decisions during the game. These things are happening every week now. Something needs to be done. [It's] ruining the game."

QPR hope to strengthen their squad ahead of the closure of the transfer window on Tuesday night, with attempts ongoing are to recruit the former Liverpool and Sunderland striker Djibril Cissé from Lazio, and have completed a loan move for Nancy's Mali midfielder Samba Diakité. The latter was granted permission on Sunday to fly from Gabon, where he is competing in the Africa Cup of Nations, to undergo a medical with the Londoners and finalise a move.The Nancy president, Jacques Rousselot, said there was "an option to make the move permanent for €4m [£3.5m] at the end of the season if QPR remain in the Premier League". Guardian

REUTERS
About Thomson Reuters
Soccer-Mali midfielder Diakite joins QPR on loan
Sun Jan 29, 2012 9:03pm GMT

NANCY, France Jan 29 (Reuters) - Mali midfielder Samba Diakite has joined Queens Park Rangers from Nancy on loan until the end of the season, the Ligue 1 club said on Sunday.

Diakite, 23, had been allowed by Mali coach Alain Giresse to fly from Gabon, where he is playing in the African Nations Cup, to London to sign his contract.

"It will become a permanent transfer if the London club stay in the Premier League," Nancy said in a statement.

QPR, who are two points above the Premier League relegation zone, will have to wait to see when Diakite can join them as it will depend on how far Mali get in the African Nations Cup which runs until Feb. 12.

Mali are third in their four-team group with three points from two games, level on points with second-placed Guinea with one Group D game to play. The top two teams in a group go through to the quarter-finals.

(Reporting by Dimitri Rahmelow; Writing by Julien Pretot; Editing by Sonia Oxley; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL4E8CT0NO20120129

29/01/2012 - Nancy Official Site
DiakitÃ© a signÃ© Ã QPR

Samba DiakitÃ© est officiellement prÃªtÃ© au club anglais de Queens Park Rangers jusqu'Ã la fin de la saison. Ce prÃªt se transformera automatiquement en transfert dÃ©finitif en cas de maintien du club londonien, actuellement 16e avec deux points d'avance sur le premier relÃ©gable. Actuellement au Gabon avec la sÃ©lection malienne pour y disputer la CAN, le joueur a bÃ©nÃ©ficiÃ© dâ€™une permission du sÃ©lectionneur Alain Giresse pour effectuer lâ€™aller-retour Ã Londres afin de passer la visite mÃ©dicale puis de signer son contrat.

http://www.asnl.net/102/asnl_24_24/actualites/fiche/3249

Article re Icelandic Footballers - Including of Course Heidar Helguson
"...celand has by far the most English Premier League players per capita of all countries, four in total. In fact, Iceland has more EPL players than quite a few much more populous countries, such as Russia and Mexico to name but a couple.

One of them is QPR‘s Heiðar Helguson, who shouldn‘t need any introduction. The 34- year-old striker has been enjoying a marvellous season with Rangers and is their top goalscorer with seven league goals and one in the FA Cup. It will be interesting to see what impact Mark Hughes‘ arrival will have on his squad status, but it will be hard for the Welshman to ignore his contribution at Loftus Road....World Soccer

Soccerway - Taarabt furious over Morocco exit

Morocco forward Adel Taarabt has expressed his anger at seeing his country suffer a group stage exit from the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Atlas Lions surprisingly bowed out of the competition on Friday after being defeated 3-2 by host nation Gabon, but the QPR star admits their elimination was justified following a couple of below-par performances in Group C.

"I am very angry about our early elimination from the cup - we played terrible and we disappointed our fans," Taarabt told Itasport.

As a result of Morocco's failings, Taarabt revealed he wants to bounce back as quickly as possible by resuming his Premier League sojourn with QPR, who have enjoyed a recent upturn in fortunes with the appointment of Mark Hughes.

"I want to return to QPR and help the team as soon as I can. I'm happy to go back to London, but to leave without even a victory is really disappointing," the former Lens man said.
Morocco play out their remaining group match against Niger on Tuesday Soccerway

The Sweeper understands that the approach, believed to have been made last autumn, received a lukewarm response because of Fulham’s plans to expand the club’s home since 1896.

A planning application to develop the Riverside Stand and increase Craven Cottage’s capacity to 30,000 from 25,700 was submitted to the council earlier this month. Fulham, who were tenants at Loftus Road between 2002 and 2004 while the Cottage was developed, will only reconsider the possibility of a ground share if the proposal is rejected by the council.

QPR’s first choice is to buy a parcel of land that belongs to the BBC at White City, which is next to the vast Westfield shopping development and adjacent to the A40.

However, the cost of building a 30,000-capacity stadium from scratch in an area where land and construction costs are so expensive is proving prohibitive and the plan to go it alone at the site has been put on ice.

Sources have told The Sweeper that one suggestion that has been aired is for QPR to move from Hammersmith and Fulham to the adjacent borough of Ealing and a site in Acton, which is close enough to the club’s current Shepherd’s Bush home not to anger the hardcore support.

QPR refused to comment on their stadium plans but it is understood that the club’s priority when the transfer window shuts is to source a site for a new training ground.

No stadium share would get off the ground without the approval of Hammersmith and Fulham Borough Council, who insist they have not been pushing for the two clubs, who are 2.5 miles apart, to build a new stadium.

“There is always speculation and rumour about our premiership football clubs,” said a council spokesman. “However, suggestions that Fulham and QPR have held any discussions with the council about a possible ground share are wide of the mark." Goal.com

QPR Report Sunday: Compilation of QPR-Chelsea Match Reports, Managerial Comments and Match Day Photos

2012-01-29T07:37:00.009Z

-

- Photo Compilation of QPR and Chelsea Fans and the Security/Police Measures
-
- See Also: 130 Photos from QPR vs Chelsea
-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_______________________________________________________________________________________

- On This Day Flashback: QPR's League Cup Quarter Final Win at Chelsea (VIDEO)...Birthdays for Ex-QPR Mark Stein & Steve Yates

- Updated QPR Transfer Gossip Articles (Go to last page and work back!)

- Ex-QPR Director, Kevin Steele (Under Caliendo-Paladini) Sentenced to 5 1/2 Prison - and Steele/QPR Flashbacks

- Next: Aston Villa

Soccerway - Taarabt furious over Morocco exit

Morocco forward Adel Taarabt has expressed his anger at seeing his country suffer a group stage exit from the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Atlas Lions surprisingly bowed out of the competition on Friday after being defeated 3-2 by host nation Gabon, but the QPR star admits their elimination was justified following a couple of below-par performances in Group C.

"I am very angry about our early elimination from the cup - we played terrible and we disappointed our fans," Taarabt told Itasport.

As a result of Morocco's failings, Taarabt revealed he wants to bounce back as quickly as possible by resuming his Premier League sojourn with QPR, who have enjoyed a recent upturn in fortunes with the appointment of Mark Hughes.

"I want to return to QPR and help the team as soon as I can. I'm happy to go back to London, but to leave without even a victory is really disappointing," the former Lens man said.
Morocco play out their remaining group match against Niger on Tuesday Soccerway

FA CUP FOURTH ROUND: QPR 0 CHELSEA 1

QPR Official Site

HUGHES: NOT A PENALTY
Posted on: Sat 28 Jan 2012

Mark Hughes believes QPR were unfortunate to concede what proved to be a match-deciding penalty as Chelsea edged through to the fifth round of the FA Cup with a 1-0 victory at Loftus Road.

Referee Mike Dean awarded the spot-kick on 62 minutes, adjudging Clint Hill to have felled Daniel Sturridge at the far post.

"It wasn't a penalty, not at all," Hughes said after the final whistle.

"I think if Mike Dean looks at the incident again he'll see Daniel Sturridge has gone down very easily.

"He (Sturridge) knows in those circumstances he isn't going to win the header so he's looking for something in the box.

"Unfortunately the referee has seen that as a foul and we have paid the consequences of conceding the penalty.

"The referee will be disappointed with the decision because there is no way that it is a penalty.

"We are disappointed obviously and I felt that decision came during our best period when we were looking to affect the game in an attacking sense.

"That really took the wind out of our sails. It is disappointing but I am really proud of the effort the lads put in today."

Despite his understandable frustration, Hughes was able to take a number of positives from what was a tight affair against Andre Villas Boas's side.

"We have worked exceptionally hard today," said the R's boss. "We had good shape, good discipline, we understood what we needed to do.

"In key moments we needed to retain possession a little bit better than we did today but obviously we are playing an accomplished side in Chelsea.

"But in terms of our discipline and shape I thought we were excellent."

In the lead up to the game, the focus of many was on the expected handshakes between the two teams.

However, both QPR and Chelsea - in consultation with the FA - took the decision to drop the normal pre-match protocol.

And Hughes explained: "It got to the point where everybody was talking about the handshake when they should have been talking about a football match to be perfectly honest.

"It was ridiculous. So we decided to take it out of the equation and that was exactly the right thing to do."

Now QPR head into a crucial Premier League fixture at Aston Villa on Wednesday evening, and Hughes is looking ahead with confidence.

"We have got players to come in," he said. "We've got Nedum Onuoha and Taye Taiwo who we have added to the squad and hopefully we can bring a couple more in which will help us.

"What I have been really pleased with is the effort and the aptitude of the players.

"They work exceptionally hard for each other and I can't emphasise that too much. If I have that in the group I'm happy because I know I have got something to work with."
http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/TheGaffer/0,,10373~2591797,00.html

Chelsea Official Site

REACTION: BETTER AFTER THE BREAK
Posted on: Sat 28 Jan 2012

Andre Villas-Boas praised the team's discipline and was impressed by improvement shown after half-time in our FA Cup victory at QPR on Saturday.

Pre-match talk was dominated by the on-going John Terry and Anton Ferdinand saga, and this early kick-off did little to switch the focus back to football with neither side creating many goalscoring chances in an unremarkable and unmemorable encounter.

The goal this afternoon came from the penalty spot, Juan Mata finding the bottom corner after Daniel Sturridge had been nudged to the ground by Rangers defender Clint Hill in the second half. That we then went on to keep a clean sheet, with David Luiz and Terry exemplary, will also be food for thought with new signing Gary Cahill waiting on the bench.

'I think the excellent positive today was our change from the first half to the second,' the 34-year-old highlighted. 'We looked dominant for the whole game but in the first half we looked one-paced, slow in our possession, still creating danger but maybe with less incisiveness than in the second half and in the second half we were better and improved as a team.

'Because of that amount of attack we created in the second half we eventually got the penalty. It was a good solid display. QPR are difficult on the counter and create problems, mainly from our mistakes, but we move on with a good 1-0 and go through.'

The manager reserved praise for his defensive players, and in particular the captain who dealt admirably with a barrage of abuse from the home support.

'It was a good solid display defensively,' he said. 'To be fair this January we have shown we have organised ourselves a little better in defence, not conceding so many goals, and it is repaying us. We look more organised and solid and when we scored we managed to hang on to the match.

'Individually John had an excellent performance and was very focused, he managed to get the off-field events out of his mind and concentrate fully on his job.

'There was a tendency from the players to focus only on the game. To be fair the QPR players were also outstanding on that commitment. Emotions were kept low and both teams set out to play football and it worked as a spectacle.'

Villas-Boas felt the decision of referee Mike Dean to award us the penalty was justified, and pointed to the one given against us in October as justification.

'They reacted angrily of course, not satisfied with the penalty,' he said. 'Mike has given it and if you guys can recall it is very similar to the David Luiz and Helguson here, and nobody seemed to criticise anything, instead pointing the finger at David Luiz for his mistake.'

QPR boss Mark Hughes felt otherwise.

'I am pleased with the effort and performance but disappointed with
the penalty which I thought was very harsh,' said the Welshman.
'I think he said to Paddy Kenny that he had to give the penalty because the lad was going to head the ball in. I felt Daniel Sturridge went down a bit easily. It was one of our better periods in the game, where Cech made a good save.'

Hughes conceded QPR had not done enough to win but felt they were good for a replay.

'We're disappointed because we worked exceptionally hard today. In fairness we weren't able to retain possession higher up the field after defending so well, where our discipline was excellent,' the former Chelsea striker said.

'Along with that if you're working exceptionally hard you have to go the other way and we weren't able to do that as much as I would have liked, but we lost a number of players through injury during the week and Heidar Helguson had to come off at half-time.

'We didn't do enough to win but easily could have got a draw out of the game.'

Villas-Boas put out the strongest team available to him, but lost Ramires with what looks to be medial ligament damage in the second half.

'I think the team that we showed today was the team that has been competing extremely well in training. Everyone has been up a level on the winter trip [to Mallorca], and we had to make a decision for the starting 11 - it was strong,' the Portuguese said. 'Normally in cup competitions we see slight changes to the starting 11, not that I haven't done it in the past but bearing in mind our position in the league and the history and prestige of this trophy it sends a good sign for our commitment to the trophy and the people in our team competing for a place. It is still a competition for the players and today we set up with the best possible team.
'[Ramires] looks like a medial ligament injury, not so bad in terms of knee injuries. He will have an MRI tomorrow and we will know the full extent. Hopefully he will avoid an operation and be back soon. We could look at four weeks, but we have to know the extent of the injury to give a good assessment.'
It is possible Frank Lampard could return for Tuesday's Barclays Premier League game at Swansea.
'Frank we have to see how he comes back for training, he is still a doubt, a 50 percent chance, and Mikel shouldn't make it.
'We are within a five-point margin from the third-placed team and five points more than Arsenal in fifth. It's important to try and reach the top and go to Swansea fully motivated. They lost to Sunderland but are on a good run, plus they are one of the teams that play fantastic football. It should build up to an exciting game, and it's important for us to show consistency in the away games but do better than Norwich.'
Both managers discussed the decision, made jointly between Chelsea, QPR and the FA not to stage a pre-game handshake, given the attention that had been building.
'I think it was a wise decision bearing in mind the expectancy aroused from the fact a couple of events could happen in that handshake,' Villas-Boas said. 'Bearing that in mind it was wise not to do it because it could impact crowd behaviour straight after. Everything was clear and both teams got on. It was sensible.'
Hughes added: 'I thought it was the correct decision. There was so much attention shown to such a brief moment it was clouding the issue, which today was surely the FA Cup tie. It was exactly the right thing to do.
There were discussions yesterday, and we had a meeting last night and we gave our view on what should happen. We all came to the same decision.
'In the end it was about taking it out of the equation. I have a bit of history to do with handshakes myself and if they're not done with integrity why do it at all? They're an irritation and I don't know where they've come from. People think it is vitally important teams do this, I thought there was nothing wrong with the old days where you just run out and play a game of football.'

Finally, Villas-Boas had praise for the travelling Chelsea support.
'It was positive. We got more ticket allocation than the league game and filled out the stand,' he said. 'We had good support throughout the game, important for us. It is the environment we want to transfer to Stamford Bridge, which is much more anxious. Away it is more supportive and helps the players feel better.'
http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268~2591806,00.html

Dave McIntyre/West London Sport

Penalty decision angers QPR boss

Hughes believes QPR have a bright future.

QPR manager Mark Hughes insisted referee Mike Dean was wrong to award the penalty which led to Chelseaâ€™s winner in the FA Cup clash at Loftus Road.

Dean pointed to the spot after Daniel Sturridge went down under a challenge from Clint Hill, who angrily argued that the Blues forward had dived.

Hill protested bitterly after a penalty was awarded against him.

Juan Mata made no mistake from 12 yards, sending his team into the fifth round and leaving Hughes furious.

â€œI think it was very harsh and Mike Dean will be disappointed when he sees the decision heâ€™s made,â€ said Hughes.

â€œHe told Paddy Kenny he had to give a penalty because he thought Sturridge would have scored with the header. I think he [Sturridge] went down a bit too easily.

â€œItâ€™s disappointing for us because the goal came during one of our better periods in the game.â€

Hughes praised Anton Ferdinand, who produced a solid performance despite the furore surrounding the Râ€™s defender and John Terry.

â€œI think Anton has conducted himself really well, not just this week but over a number of weeks,â€ he said.

â€œThe focus was on him, and for him to play as well as he did means he comes away with a lot of credit.â€

Hughes added: â€œWeâ€™re disappointed, because we worked hard in terms of discipline and defensive shape but werenâ€™t able to retain possession higher up the field after defending so well.

â€œIf youâ€™re working extremely hard you still need to be able to go the other way and affect the game. Unfortunately we didnâ€™t do that as well as Iâ€™d have liked.

â€œIt was understandable, because we lost players during the week and during the game.

â€œHeidar Helguson had to come off at half-time and Akos Buzsaky, who hasnâ€™t trained all week, looked leggy towards the end.â€

And Hughes revealed that Helguson, who has been nursing an ongoing groin problem, is â€œvery unlikelyâ€ to play against Aston Villa in midweek

http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/penalty-decision-angers-qpr-boss/.

Dave McIntyre/West London Sport

Mataâ€™s penalty gives Blues derby victory

Mata played a key role in Chelsea's first-half winner.

Juan Mataâ€™s penalty settled the west London grudge match and sent Chelsea into the FA Cup fifth round.

The Spaniard showed great composure to score after Daniel Sturridge had gone down under a challenge from Clint Hill.

Terry played well after a nervous start.

But his teamâ€™s victory was somewhat marred by an injury to Ramires, who was stretchered off 12 minutes from time after falling awkwardly.

The spotlight was inevitably on Anton Ferdinand and John Terry given the furore surrounding the pair since the latter was accused of racially abusing the QPR centre-back when these teams met three month ago.

After much speculation about whether Ferdinand would shake Terryâ€™s hand before kick-off, there were no handshakes at all â€“ as the whole pre-match procedure was scrapped.

Back at Loftus Road for the first time since the alleged incident involving Ferdinand, Terry was predictably barracked by the home fans.

He looked nervous on the ball in the opening stages, but his teamâ€™s display with nine men against Rangers in October suggested the home side had reason to feel anxious.

QPR won that controversial clash courtesy of Heidar Helgusonâ€™s early penalty but spent much of the game chasing shadows despite the first-half dismissals of Jose Bosingwa and Didier Drogba.

That gave an indication of the gulf in class between these two neighbours and it was evident again for much of this encounter.

But for all Chelseaâ€™s neat approach play, it took a hotly disputed penalty on the hour-mark for them to break the deadlock.

Referee Mike Dean pointed to the spot despite Hillâ€™s furious insistence that Sturridge dived, and Mata coolly netted his eighth goal of the season.

It came barely a minute after QPR had almost scored against the run of play.

Shaun Wright-Phillipsâ€™ shot was parried by keeper Petr Cech towards an unmarked Jamie Mackie, who was unable to react quickly enough to make contact.

Nevertheless, Chelseaâ€™s breakthrough was a deserved one as they had been well on top.

They dominated most of the first half and Mata brought a save from Paddy Kenny after a slip by Râ€™s defender Luke Young.

And early in the second period, Fernando Torres cleverly turned away from Ferdinand and Hill to tee up Sturridge, who blazed over.

After Mata picked his spot, sending Kenny the wrong way, Rangers rarely looked like finding an equaliser â€“ although Cech produced an injury-time save to deny Young.

And the loss of Ramires robbed Chelsea of the gameâ€™s most impressive player.

As sweet as this victory will taste for the Blues, the prospect of a long spell without the Brazilian midfielder will cause them real concern.

http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/matas-penalty-gives-blues-derby-victory/

INDPENDENT/Glenn Moore

Mata books Chelsea's passage as neighbours refuse to make a fuss
Not even a controversial penalty fans the flames as players avoid pre-match handshake and remain on best behaviour in wake of Terry-Ferdinand affair

There was no handshake, and precious little football either, at Loftus Road yesterday as a promising FA Cup tie was suffocated by the controversy surrounding it. So determined were both teams to avoidfurther inflaming the tension provoked by John Terry's alleged use of racist language towards Anton Ferdinand in their last meeting that QPR even accepted with only moderate anger the highly dubious penalty award which settled the match in Chelsea's favour.

The spot-kick, converted by Juan Mata on the hour, was given after Daniel Sturridge fell dramatically to the floor after Clint Hill made mild contact with his back. QPR, who beat Chelsea here in thrilling circumstances in October, never looked like levelling and can now return to their relegation battle. For Chelsea, the next items on the agenda are a Premier League match at Swansea on Tuesday, and an appearance at west London magistrates' court for Terry on Wednesday, where he will be formally charged.

If Terry is being affected by the affair it is not showing on the pitch. Yesterday he produced an assured performance, albeit rarely put under pressure by a QPR side overly focused on defence. Ferdinand, whose performances after the incidents faltered, also played well, which was all the more creditable given he was sent a bullet in the post last week.

"I thought Anton conducted himself really, really well, not only this week but for a number of weeks," said Mark Hughes, the QPR manager. "It was important he faced what he had to face, and I'm pleased for him. He was right to be concerned by the content of the letter. I read it and it wasn't particularly nice."

Andre Villas-Boas was equally complimentary about Terry, who was abused throughout by the home support. The Chelsea manager said: "He had an excellent performance, very, very focused. Off-field events were out of his mind and he concentrated on events on the pitch."

Only once did the verbal taunts threaten to spill over into something more sinister, a fan throwing the match ball into Ashley Cole's back as Chelsea prepared to take a throw-in. The refer-ee, Mike Dean, intervened, asking the nearest steward to speak to the man involved. There were no arrests, then or elsewhere in the ground, for which both clubs and the FA will be grateful.

It may have helped that there was not much to get excited about for the game was dire, especially in a lifeless first half. QPR, despite the small capacity of Loftus Road, failed to sell out this west London derby, and the fans who stayed away made the right decision. Hughes has made great play of the fact he has given his new team greater organisation and yesterday he praised his players' work-rate and defensive discipline.

Yet QPR have lost the attacking intent they had under Neil Warnock and only twice exercised Petr Cech. Once was in the seventh minute of injury time, when he parried Luke Young's shot, the other, after 59 minutes, led indirectly to Chelsea's goal.

Shaun Wright-Phillips beat Cole on the right and fired in a rasping shot, which Cech parried perilously close to Tommy Smith. It fell instead to Ramires, who run deep into QPR territory. The move broke down but was resuscitated, and Mata crossed towards Sturridge. Hill nudged the striker in the back and he tumbled to the deck with enthusiasm.

"It was very harsh," said Hughes. "Mike Dean will be disappointed when he sees the decision he's given. He told Paddy Kenny he had to give it as [Sturridge] was going to head the ball, but that was not my view." Chelsea lost to a similar, if more obvious, penalty in October and Villas-Boas said: "We were treated unfairly then, maybe QPR were treated unfairly [today]."

Chelsea fielded a full-strength team and Villas-Boas confirmed afterwards that, with the Premier League title looking out of reach, he was aiming to win the FA Cup. His team produced, as he said, "a good solid display" but lacked panache. Fernando Torres looked to have regressed, Mata only occasionally influenced play and Sturridge continually turned inside, on to his favoured foot but into trouble.

Worryingly, Ramires, who did provide energy, departed on a stretcher late on. The QPR fans suspended hostilities and clapped him off. He was diagnosed with medial ligament damage, but Chelsea hope the Brazilian will be back within a month.

There was one effort on goal in the opening half and that followed a mistake, Mata testing Kenny with a fierce shot. The second half offered little more, with Chelsea largely happy to knock the ball around the back four and QPR, even after falling behind, usually prepared to let them.

With Heidar Helguson suffering a muscle injury, Joey Barton quiet and Akos Buzsaky finding the game rather harder than he had against Wigan last week, QPR lacked firepower.

Hughes will doubtless renew his efforts to add to his squad in the closing days of the transfer window. "The disappointment was that we were unable to build on our defensive platform and attack," he said.

QPR (4-4-2): Kenny; Young, Hall, Ferdinand, Hill; Mackie, Buzsaky (Hulse, 80), Barton, Wright-Phillips; Smith, Helguson (Macheda, h/t).

Chelsea (4-3-3): Cech; Ivanovic, Luiz, Terry, Cole; Ramires (Romeu, 79), Meireles, Malouda; Sturridge, Torres, Mata (Essien, 90).

Referee: Mike Dean.

Man of the match: Ramires (Chelsea)

Match rating: 3/10

Queens Park Rangers 0 Chelsea 1 (Mata, pen)

Spotlight on John Terry

So what happened to the handshake?

There was no formal handshake between the teams after QPR's players said they would refuse to shake hands with John Terry as a gesture of solidarity with AntonFerdinand. Terry did, however, shake the hand of Joey Barton the QPR captain at the coin toss, and those of the match officials. After the game, Barton (pictured) was again the only QPR player whose hand he shook.

How did the fans greet his first touch?

He was booed throughout by QPR fans, but as the match wore on the venom in the booing dropped. There was also a series of chants directed at Terry and his family, some too unsavoury to print. They included: 'John Terry, we know what you said'. The Chelsea fans cheered him.

Did he have any arguments with anybody on the pitch?

None whatsoever. The game was surprisingly bereft of confrontations between players.

How did he play?

Very well. If not quite flawless, Terry won the majority of his headers, tracked his man, won most of his tackles, generally distributed the ball well and made no serious errors. Independent

The Sweeper understands that the approach, believed to have been made last autumn, received a lukewarm response because of Fulham’s plans to expand the club’s home since 1896.

A planning application to develop the Riverside Stand and increase Craven Cottage’s capacity to 30,000 from 25,700 was submitted to the council earlier this month. Fulham, who were tenants at Loftus Road between 2002 and 2004 while the Cottage was developed, will only reconsider the possibility of a ground share if the proposal is rejected by the council.

QPR’s first choice is to buy a parcel of land that belongs to the BBC at White City, which is next to the vast Westfield shopping development and adjacent to the A40.

However, the cost of building a 30,000-capacity stadium from scratch in an area where land and construction costs are so expensive is proving prohibitive and the plan to go it alone at the site has been put on ice.

Sources have told The Sweeper that one suggestion that has been aired is for QPR to move from Hammersmith and Fulham to the adjacent borough of Ealing and a site in Acton, which is close enough to the club’s current Shepherd’s Bush home not to anger the hardcore support.

QPR refused to comment on their stadium plans but it is understood that the club’s priority when the transfer window shuts is to source a site for a new training ground.

No stadium share would get off the ground without the approval of Hammersmith and Fulham Borough Council, who insist they have not been pushing for the two clubs, who are 2.5 miles apart, to build a new stadium.

“There is always speculation and rumour about our premiership football clubs,” said a council spokesman. “However, suggestions that Fulham and QPR have held any discussions with the council about a possible ground share are wide of the mark." Goal.com

QPR Report: QPR & Chelsea Lineups...Fulham Stadium Share?...Prison for Former QPR Director...Warnock on So-Nearly Signing Bellamy and re Buzsaky

2012-01-28T08:09:00.028Z

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- Courtesy of Haqpr1963!
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From Bushman Archives
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- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
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- Ex-QPR Director, Kevin Steele (Under Caliendo-Paladini) Sentenced to 5 1/2 Prison - and Steele Flashbacks

INDEPENDENT - Three are sent to prison for defrauding Swiss bank of $22m
- Three conspirators, including the former owner of the no-win, no-fee firm Claims Direct and an ex-partner at the top-drawer law firm Mischon de Reya, have been jailed for defrauding a Swiss bank.
- The trio defrauded the Swiss bank EFG Private Bank of Zurich of $22m in 2008 by making a loan application supported by fake letters claiming that more £76m was held on deposit at Bank Julius Baer in Guernsey. The money was to be used to fund a Turkish resort where footballers including Wayne Rooney, pictured, had bought villas.
- Kevin Steele, who was a partner at Mischon de Reya in 2008 and was also on the board of Queens Park Rangers, was found guilty of forgery and fraud in December and was sentenced yesterday to five years and six months. Michael Shepherd, a former client of Steele, was sentenced to six years and three months and banned from acting as a director for 15 years. He, like his associate Mark Pattison, who has been sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, had pleaded guilty ahead of the trial. Independent

Goal.com - The Sweeper: Fulham approached by QPR about interest in sharing a new stadium

Goal.com can also reveal why Jose Mourinho will not be the next Manchester City manager, and offer an explanation for Blackburn Rovers' improvement under Steve Kean

SWEEPER - TIDYING UP ALL THE LOOSE STORIES IN FOOTBALL THIS WEEK

Fulham have been sounded out about their interest in sharing a new stadium with west London rivals QPR, The Sweeper can reveal.

But Fulham have told Rangers they would only consider the possibility of leaving Craven Cottage if their ground expansion plans are rejected by Hammersmith and Fulham Borough Council.

Rangers have been openly scouring west London for a new site since Tony Fernandes’ takeover last August and one possibility that has been tentatively explored is linking up with Fulham to build a bespoke ground.

The Sweeper understands that the approach, believed to have been made last autumn, received a lukewarm response because of Fulham’s plans to expand the club’s home since 1896.

A planning application to develop the Riverside Stand and increase Craven Cottage’s capacity to 30,000 from 25,700 was submitted to the council earlier this month. Fulham, who were tenants at Loftus Road between 2002 and 2004 while the Cottage was developed, will only reconsider the possibility of a ground share if the proposal is rejected by the council.

QPR’s first choice is to buy a parcel of land that belongs to the BBC at White City, which is next to the vast Westfield shopping development and adjacent to the A40.

However, the cost of building a 30,000-capacity stadium from scratch in an area where land and construction costs are so expensive is proving prohibitive and the plan to go it alone at the site has been put on ice.

Sources have told The Sweeper that one suggestion that has been aired is for QPR to move from Hammersmith and Fulham to the adjacent borough of Ealing and a site in Acton, which is close enough to the club’s current Shepherd’s Bush home not to anger the hardcore support.

QPR refused to comment on their stadium plans but it is understood that the club’s priority when the transfer window shuts is to source a site for a new training ground.

No stadium share would get off the ground without the approval of Hammersmith and Fulham Borough Council, who insist they have not been pushing for the two clubs, who are 2.5 miles apart, to build a new stadium.

“There is always speculation and rumour about our premiership football clubs,” said a council spokesman. “However, suggestions that Fulham and QPR have held any discussions with the council about a possible ground share are wide of the mark." Goal.com

- Telegraph/Henry Winters: For football's sake, dignity and respect must win the day

- Chelsea Previews

- Should Ferdinand Shake Terry's Hand: The Ongoing Discussion

- QPR Vs Chelsea Stats, Flashbacks, Photos, Videos

- Updated QPR Transfer Gossip Articles (Go to last page and work back!)

- On This Day in Football: January 28

NEIL WARNOCK/INDPENDENT COLUMN

- At six o'clock, the day before the transfer deadline shut in August, I had a telephone conversation with Craig Bellamy. He was leaving Manchester City and I was trying to persuade him to come to QPR. I'd almost done it, but he'd heard there was the possibility of returning to Liverpool. He told me: "If Liverpool don't come in for me, I'll come [to Rangers]."

He was determined to hang on to see if Liverpool came in for him at the death, and unfortunately for me, they did. I'll never forget that moment. It was about 10pm the following mad night, as I was trying to sign players right, left and centre. I saw one of those "breaking news" flashes on Sky Sports News: "Craig Bellamy signs for Liverpool." I'd heard from his agent about 6pm that Liverpool had been in touch, so I wasn't that surprised, but it was a blow. As he's shown since, he's still a very good player and he could have made a real difference for us.

An hour after the deadline shut I had a phone call from Craig, thanking me for my interest and telling me he always wanted to go back to Liverpool, which I knew. I wished him all the best. The memory came back to me on Wednesday when he scored the goal that sent Liverpool back to Wembley for the first time in 16 years. He was absolutely magnificent, he covered every blade of grass. I bet Roberto Mancini was sat there thinking, "Why on earth did I let him go?"

It'll be strange for Bellers playing against his old team, and his hometown team, Cardiff, but he's such a good pro that when the whistle goes he'll only think about one thing: winning the game. If Cardiff had gone up last season I'm convinced he would have signed for them permanently, but things haven't worked out too badly for him.

2. Palace pride despite pain of penalties

Football managers always watch matches involving other teams with a view to how it might affect your own club. If a player gets injured, or gets a card which will lead to a suspension you think, '"Which matches is he going to miss?" You hope games involving promotion or relegation rivals, or your next opponents, go into extra time. And you are always looking out for players who might be able to do a job for your own team, and looking at the tactics used by future opponents.

When you are not in work you can watch matches from a more detached perspective, but you never stop thinking about what the managers are going through, because on another day it could be you.

That was certainly the case as I watched the midweek Carling Cup semi-finals, which both showed what a fine line there is between winning and losing. Having been through a few penalty shoot-outs, I could empathise with Dougie Freedman (below) and Malky Mackay, two of the most promising managers in the game and two young men I have a lot of time for, when the Cardiff-Palace match went to spot-kicks.

I'm sure the disappointment for Dougie and the lads at Crystal Palace was immense, but they should all be proud of their achievements in getting that far. I've watched Malky from his early days at Watford and I love how he goes about his job with no frills. You can tell the enjoyment he gets out of being manager of a great club like Cardiff City.

The second semi was also decided by narrow margins, in this case two refereeing decisions. I thought it was a penalty when Charlie Adam fouled Edin Dzeko, but not when Daniel Agger's shot deflected on to Micah Richards' hands. Phil Dowd thought differently and I could see why. It was impossible to give the Dzeko penalty from his position, while the other happened so fast I'm convinced Phil never saw the ball come off Richards' foot before it hit his hands. I would imagine after the game he couldn't believe his eyes, but then it's too late.

Three days earlier, though, City got the breaks against Spurs. I still can't believe they won that game. Mario Balotelli should have been off for a stamp on Scott Parker, and I bet Jermain Defoe has made those last few inches to score what would have been Spurs' winner every night in his head when he's gone to bed. I had to smile when Balotelli's agent said he was being picked on. Just tell him not to stamp on people. It's not rocket science.

3. A week off, but my life is going down the Tube

So what have I been doing in my week of leisure? As well as the semi-finals I watched the cricket (I think the lack of spectators might explain why some England players found it hard to get going), the golf (it was great to see Tiger striking the ball well again) and the tennis (though if I watch those shriekers Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka this morning it'll be with the sound turned down).

Today I'm at the ITV studios to watch QPR v Chelsea for tonight's highlights show. I do fancy QPR repeating our Premier League win over Chelsea. Tomorrow I'm at the Emirates with ESPN for Arsenal v Aston Villa. Surely Arsène will go out to try and win the FA Cup? I think they have a great chance.

I've not just been watching television and appearing on it. I've had two more teeth out – with my mouth I've got to have major surgery on most things – and been out and about in London. I went on the Tube twice to London on my own. I try not to make eye contact, but as you can imagine, I get a few supporters giving me some gentle banter – fortunately, at the moment that's all it's been, but I'm sure that won't last.

There's all the world on the Tube. You look around and wonder what people do, where are they going? I think it does me a bit of good to see how everyone else lives in the capital. One night, to avoid the rush hour, I waited until 7pm to come back. Yet when the train came into the platform at Hyde Park Corner and the doors opened everyone was standing up, jammed in like sardines. I had to push my way on.

4. Trying to book concert tickets is Sheer torture

Amy asked me to get some tickets for an Ed Sheeran concert in Plymouth. They went on sale at midday on Wednesday. Come the time, we logged on to be told we could not book online but had to ring the box office. I think the website had crashed. We rang for an hour and 10 minutes. First we got a recorded man's voice telling us to "press one for tickets for today's concert" and so on. The next voice, a woman, gave us more options. Finally, we had another recorded voice telling us "all lines to the ticket office are busy, please call back". Each call took 75 seconds. We eventually got through to hear another recorded voice that said "sorry, all tickets have been sold". All this time, while I was on the phone, on the internet you could buy £22 tickets for £70 from every ticket agency you could imagine. It really is a disgrace that you waste all that time and find the majority seem to have been sold off to ticket agencies. I felt really stitched up.

At least there's been compensation in sport. Amy won at netball while Will scored a fabulous try for his rugby team and a cracking goal in five-a-side football.

5. Time for a tong lashing over Sharon's curlers

Sharon asked me to pop into Boots to pick up gas refills for her Braun curling tongs. I tried four shops, all said they didn't have any. I went to Kingston and tried five more shops. Same response. It looks like they might even have stopped selling them. But there is obviously demand because on the Internet I can buy two for £40 – it's normally £5 a pair. So Sharon now has these useless tongs. I'm told Twitter is good for making complaints like this, but you know what I think about Twitter, so I'm using my column. If anyone from Braun is reading, please get in touch.

6. Akos was left out due to Faurlin being a hero

I had to smile when I read the comments from Akos Buzsaky after his fabulous goal for QPR last weekend. I can imagine the press asking him: "Why haven't you been playing?" The answer is simple, Ali Faurlin plays in his position and he has been QPR's best player this season. However, in my last match as manager Ali was badly injured, enabling Akos to get back in the side.

Akos told the press "at Christmas I wasn't even in the squad, I wasn't even travelling with the team. It was really testing me." I thought to myself: "I wonder if this is the same player that asked for five days' compassionate leave at Christmas?" Independent

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - YOUR BEHAVIOUR - A REMINDER
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Queens Park Rangers Football Club is committed to confronting and eliminating discrimination, whether by reason of race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, ethnic and national origin, disability, nationality, religion or belief or gender reassignment.
- The Club is proud of the atmosphere we have at Loftus Road and by working together we can stop any discrimination or behavior that has no place in football.
Loftus Road is governed by Ground Regulations and we would like to remind all visitors that by entering the ground they are agreeing to abide by these rules.
Entry to the Ground is expressly subject to acceptance by the visitor of these Ground Regulations and the rules and regulations of FIFA, UEFA, The Football Association, The Premier League and The Football League in respect of the relevant competition. The Ground Regulations incorporate the Club's Customer Charter (if any). Entry to the Ground shall constitute acceptance of the Ground Regulations.
- Racial, homophobic or discriminatory abuse, chanting or harassment is strictly forbidden and will result in arrest and / or ejection from the Ground, and in addition the Club will impose a ban for one or more matches.
QPR will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment, or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal and where required we will work in full co-operation with the Metropolitan Police to provide CCTV footage and staff statements to ensure prosecution.
- Any actions that lead to prosecution or removal from the ground will result in a ban.
No supporter needs to tolerate discrimination of any kind at Loftus Road, on the pitch or in the stands. If you experience any form of discrimination, help us to eliminate it from football. Please report this to the Club by texting the Matchday Control Room on 07557 435421. We will treat your correspondence in strictest confidence.

GUARDIAN/DOMINIC FIFIELD

Police investigate death threat against Anton Ferdinand

• Spent gun cartridge sent to Queens Park Rangers
• Ferdinand to face John Terry for first time since league meeting

Anton Ferdinand was the target of a death threat on the eve of Saturday's potentially explosive west London derby against Chelsea. Hammersmith and Fulham police are investigating a letter, containing a spent gun cartridge, which was received by Queens Park Rangers and is understood to have been addressed to the defender.

The buildup to the FA Cup fourth-round tie has been dominated by the first meeting of Ferdinand and John Terry on the pitch since the England captain was charged with a racially aggravated public order offence relating to an altercation with the QPR defender during the fractious league meeting at Loftus Road in October.

Terry's case is due to be heard at Westminster magistrates court on Wednesday, though he will not be in attendance, with his legal team to enter a not guilty plea on his behalf.

It is not clear whether Ferdinandwas made immediately aware of the letter but a Metropolitan police spokesman said: "I can confirm we are investigating an allegation of malicious communication received today at Queens Park Rangers Football Club. Officers from Hammersmith and Fulham are investigating."

QPR and Chelsea subsequently stated that "full searches" would be carried out on all spectators before entry and advised fans to arrive early. "Entry to the stadium will be permitted from 10.30am for the midday kick-off," the clubs said.

Confirmation of the threat to Ferdinand will dismay both clubs, who had been hoping to ease the tension before the tie. The two chairmen issued a joint statement this week appealing for calm.

Immediately before kick-off the focus will inevitably be drawn to whether Ferdinand will accept Terry's offer of a handshake. André Villas-Boas, the Chelsea manager, believes it is "extremely important" that the pair shake hands to set an example, though it is understood Ferdinand is minded not to do so. QPR officials have spoken to their player and suggested shaking hands may help defuse what is expected to be a tense occasion but the centre-half is concerned it may appear hypocritical to make the gesture given the gravity of the charges faced by Terry.

"It is extremely important [they shake hands]," Villas-Boas said. "Firstly, it's a question of respect for the opponent and everybody should do it. When it reaches that moment, the players should set out an example and do it. A lot of the situation has been spoken about but it's good for the players to show that, whatever is happening off the pitch, they are playing against each other on it. It's important they shake hands. This game is based on good values more than anything else. These two players should continue to promote those good values."

The QPR manager, Mark Hughes, has said the decision should rest with Ferdinand alone and, with his squad severely depleted by injury, has no qualms about selecting the player. "It could change from one day to the next – Anton could wake up in the morning, think: 'What's the big deal?' and shake hands," Hughes said. "Or he might feel strongly about it and decide he definitely won't. I don't know if he will shake hands. I'm not Anton.

"I like to think I can judge if a player is ready to play on a Saturday and he's given me no sign that anything is weighing heavily on him. He wants to play and his team-mates want him to play. He'll get support from them and from me so that will be enough and, obviously, our fans will back him wholeheartedly."

Terry will enter the arena braced for a hostile reception from the home supporters even if Chelsea's manager is confident he will thrive in the volatile atmosphere. "The top players have this ability to concentrate fully on the task they have in a game," said Villas-Boas. "I have no doubts about him.

"John is one of the greatest central defenders in the world, maybe one of the best ever. His progression has been outstanding, his qualities are amazing. He's a player who almost guarantees you success, in terms of his individual performance helping our collective, and a player we hold in the highest esteem. All these players went through performances in their lives that make them ready to play in any circumstance, but Chelsea players get stick from every opposition crowd. No opposition crowd loves you or 'incentivates' you. It's a London derby fuelled by emotion, and the fact Chelsea lost there in dramatic circumstances [in October] makes it an even more emotional game.

"You have to value the player and the person. The player, John Terry, has been extremely successful in the world game, with high individual success. John Terry, the person, is someone I have great empathy with, and great respect for. A player who was involved in my knowledge-making and my process of gaining experience as a manager, and a person I will always hold as a friend whichever route our lives take."

Chelsea, who have sold their centre-half Alex to Paris St-Germain for £4.2m, are unlikely to pursue the Shakhtar Donetsk forward Willian, aware that the Brazilian may struggle to gain a work permit and with their valuation of the player a considerable distance from that of the Ukrainian club. Talks continue with Genk in an effort to secure Kevin De Bruyne, who would stay in Belgium on loan until the summer. The youngster is considered a "club signing" rather than a player the manager has targeted.

"He's a good bet for the future, a player the club have scouted for some time, and I'm a manager who respects club policy," added Villas-Boas. "I'll do everything in my power for him to reach maximum potential. But it's down to the club in decision-making."

A similar arrangement could be struck with the Brazilian club São Paulo for their highly rated 19-year-old midfielder Lucas Moura. Chelsea will renew their interest in the summer if no deal can be agreed before Tuesday night. Guardian

QPR Official Site - SHARIFF JOINS WOKING
Posted on: Fri 27 Jan 2012

Mo Shariff has joined Blue Square Bet South table toppers Woking on a month's loan.

The 18 year-old penned a two-year contract extension with the R's in February 2011 to keep him at the Club until the summer of 2013.
Shariff will remain at the Kingfield Stadium until Saturday 25th February 2012.
QPR

Woking Official Site - Mo Shariff Joins on Loan

John Moore - 27th January 2012
- Woking Football Club are pleased to announce the signing of striker Mo Shariff from QPR on a one month loan deal. Mo will go straight into the squad for tomorrow’s match at Boreham Wood.
- The 18 year-old penned a two-year contract extension with the R's in February 2011 to keep him at the Club until the summer of 2013. Woking

Independent Ireland

Driven Murphy makes netting QPR spot his No 1 priority

By Ruaidhri O'Connor
Saturday January 28 2012

ALL eyes will be on FA Cup clash at Loftus Road this afternoon when John Terry and Anton Ferdinand come face-to-face for the first time since their hostile clash in the league earlier in the season.

While all this is going on, though, Brian Murphy will be slipping into his seat in the stand and watching his club play in yet another big game without him involved.

The former Bohemians man joined QPR on a free transfer last summer, but, at the moment, he has to be content with the third-choice goalkeeping spot.

In context, that's not so bad. He gets all of the trappings of being a professional footballer without the stress of having to perform.

But you don't get to where Murphy has in the game without striving for improvement and, while he is certain he made the right move by joining Neil Warnock's side -- after endorsements from Roy Keane among others -- he wants to keep his progress going and get into the first team, even if it means a loan move after the transfer window ends.

"You're not at a club like this without ability," he told the Irish Independent. "You're depending on one person's view of you and I was under no illusions when I came here. I turned down an offer from Ipswich to stay; took a risk not knowing if I had anything concrete, but I was delighted to get the offer from QPR.

"I wasn't expecting straight away to come in and challenge for No 1, I was hoping to be No 2, which I was after I worked hard in pre-season, but I was unfortunate to get an injury at the wrong time."

He was second choice on arrival, but tore his groin in the warm-up before the Stoke City match. During the game Paddy Kenny tore his gluteal muscle and it was Radek Cerny, rather than Murphy, who stepped in and subsequently produced a host of man-of-the-match performances.

When Kenny came back, Cerny dropped to the bench, meaning Murphy -- who has only played once against Rochdale in the League Cup this season -- has been out of the match-day 18 since. Rather than dwelling on his frustration, the former Ipswich No 1 is remarkably positive.

"I didn't come into the Premier League with hundreds of games under my belt. Paddy Kenny's here and he's had hundreds of clean sheets at this club," he said.

"You have to earn your right to be No 1. I just come in and work hard and see who is in the match-day squad; things can change very quickly in football."

Since Warnock's departure and Mark Hughes' appointment, the Waterford native has been getting positive noises from the Welshman's new goalkeeping coach Kevin Hitchcock and is hoping that his chance will come soon.

That will have to come first before his mind starts to wander towards reclaiming his place in the Ireland set-up.

"It's going to be difficult because there are good 'keepers here, there's good competition," he said. "That's what you want, I suppose, you want to prove yourself, that you're good enough and as far as I know, so far, I've done enough to impress the new goalkeeping coach and some of his staff.

"I've been told that if I keep training at the level I am, then I'll get a chance sooner rather than later."

Something that separates Murphy from his Premier League team-mates is his summer pursuits.

While the others are hot-footing it to warmer climes, the 28-year-old has been part of the Kildare Gaelic football set-up, coaching the goalkeepers in Kieran McGeeney's panel.

"I've done a couple of sessions with them. I have a Gaelic background," he explains.

"It's still the same idea, despite being a different sport. Unless they have a soccer background, the Gaelic 'keepers didn't really get goalkeeping coaching until recently.

"I've worked with the lads over a couple of seasons and seen vast improvements. Down the road somewhere, there is definitely something there to improve Gaelic goalkeepers. If you ask the boys that I worked with, they picked up tips."

That can wait, of course, with Murphy's mind firmly getting back into the match-day squads at Loftus Road and taking centre stage again.

QPR v Chelsea,

Live, Setanta Sports 1, 12.0

- Ruaidhri O'Connor - Independent/Ireland

QPR Report Friday Snippets

2012-01-27T08:01:00.009Z

-
- Courtesy of Haqpr1963!
-
-- From Bushman Archives: QPR Team of 1897
-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_______________________________________________________________________________________

- On This Day in Football (January 27): 11 Years Ago: QPR Crushed by Arsenal...Get Knock out of the Cup by Preston....Re-Sign Danny Shittu...Have Taarabt Talking about the Great Neil Warnock...and Priskin Set to join on Loan + 30 Years Ago, Yesterday: Last time a QPR player Scored four in a game

- Football Academies: Brentford Opening One...The Changes in Youth Football means every club will have academies, graded from one to four.

- Ex-QPR Antonio German Joins Brentford

- One-Time QPR Target, Richard Eckersley, released by Burnley

- Interesting Piece re the Process of Football Transfer Registrations: The "nuts and bolts" involved

Taye Taiwo in gay chant rap
http://www.vanguardngr.com/2012/01/taye-taiwo-in-gay-chant-rap/?

QPR have issued a warning to fans about offensive chanting this weekend — just hours after signing a player who was banned for singing a homophobic song last year.

AC Milan left-back Taye Taiwo agreed to join the Hoops on loan for the rest of the season.
QPR hope the Nigerian will receive international clearance in time to make his debut in the FA Cup showdown with rivals Chelsea on Saturday. Both clubs yesterday appealed for fans to watch what they chant during the fourth-round tie.

The match takes place just four days before Blues skipper John Terry appears in court to answer a charge he allegedly racially abused QPR’s Anton Ferdinand during October’s fiery Prem clash — a claim JT denies.

If Taiwo plays, he will have to behave better than he did after scoring the winner to help Marseille beat Montpellier 1-0 in the French League Cup final last April.

Following the final whistle he grabbed a microphone and led fans in an expletive-ridden homophobic song about their bitter rivals Paris St Germain.

French chiefs fined him £17,000 and banned Taiwo, 26, for one game.
The FA Cup tie will be the first time the sides have met since the Terry-Ferdinand row broke.
http://www.vanguardngr.com/2012/01/taye-taiwo-in-gay-chant-rap/?

QPR OFFICIAL SITE
YOUR BEHAVIOUR - A REMINDER

Posted on: Thu 26 Jan 2012
Queens Park Rangers Football Club is committed to confronting and eliminating discrimination, whether by reason of race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, ethnic and national origin, disability, nationality, religion or belief or gender reassignment.
The Club is proud of the atmosphere we have at Loftus Road and by working together we can stop any discrimination or behavior that has no place in football.
Loftus Road is governed by Ground Regulations and we would like to remind all visitors that by entering the ground they are agreeing to abide by these rules.
Entry to the Ground is expressly subject to acceptance by the visitor of these Ground Regulations and the rules and regulations of FIFA, UEFA, The Football Association, The Premier League and The Football League in respect of the relevant competition. The Ground Regulations incorporate the Club's Customer Charter (if any). Entry to the Ground shall constitute acceptance of the Ground Regulations.
Racial, homophobic or discriminatory abuse, chanting or harassment is strictly forbidden and will result in arrest and / or ejection from the Ground, and in addition the Club will impose a ban for one or more matches.
QPR will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment, or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal and where required we will work in full co-operation with the Metropolitan Police to provide CCTV footage and staff statements to ensure prosecution.
Any actions that lead to prosecution or removal from the ground will result in a ban.
No supporter needs to tolerate discrimination of any kind at Loftus Road, on the pitch or in the stands. If you experience any form of discrimination, help us to eliminate it from football. Please report this to the Club by texting the Matchday Control Room on 07557 435421. We will treat your correspondence in strictest confidence.

- Flashback: Two 1923 Videos of QPR vs Sheffield United and additional 1923 video of QPR vs Sheffield United

-
"On This Day in Football: January 26..."

- Video: Three Ultra-brief snippets; Three QPR Goals from early 1970s

- UEFA Warns Clubs about Financial Fair Play Rules...and Consequences of Breaking

- Five Year Flashback: A look at QPR Signings and Releases

- Ex-QPR Chairman Flavio Briatore Scheduled to Testify at Silvio Berlusconi Trial

- 1,000 Children Getting in Free for the Aston Villa-QPR Game

- David Conn/The Guardian: "Onus on clubs to prevent ugly spectre of racism rearing its head again
Liverpool host Manchester United in the FA Cup with the clubs' bitter rivalry soured by the Luis Suárez affair

- The Current Bottom Six Premiership Clubs: Their Remaining Fixtures

- Latest QPR Player Signing Reports/Gossip

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

- Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal Receive Asian Football Award

- NEXT: Chelsea (And New Statement re Chelsea Fans/Racism!)

- African Cup Updates

- Two interesting recent articles: re Managers and Agents (including Mark Hughes) and re Malaysia and Football (including re QPR)

- QPR will Play Newcastle United (Away) in the Fifth Round of the FA Youth Cup

QPR Report Thursday Updates and Flashbacks: Onuoah Joins QPR

2012-01-26T08:52:00.015Z

QPR's Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal Receive "Investors in Football" Award at Asian Football Awards...Loan Signing...Joint QPR-Chelsea Appeal

2012-01-25T07:58:00.014Z

QPR Report Tuesday: Awards Tonight for QPR's Tony Fernandes and Lashmi Mittal?

2012-01-24T07:43:00.006Z

QPR Report Monday Update: Taiwo...Hughes..Barton...Buzsaky...Taarabt...Chelsea...Wigan

2012-01-23T08:30:00.016Z

-
- NEXT: Chelsea (And New Statement re Chelsea Fans/Racism!)
-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- African Cup Updates

- Two interesting recent articles: re Managers and Agents (including Mark Hughes) and re Malaysia and Football (including re QPR)

- Who is Kia Joorabchian?

- Five Year Flashback: QPR Statement "No China Game at Loftus Road"

- Two Year Flashback: Article re Clubs, Owners and Fans: Time to Fight Back

- "On This Day in Football" (and QPR) January 23

- Portsmouth Again in Financial Trouble

- QPR will Play Newcastle United (Away) in the Fifth Round of the FA Youth Cup

- Tuesday, January 24: The Asian Football Awards: Nominees Include Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal...Also a couple of other QPR Nominations

- The Current Bottom Six Premiership Clubs: Their Remaining Fixtures

- Latest QPR Player Signing Reports/Gossip

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

- QPR Podcast this week is with Neil Warnock

West London Sport - QPR to confirm defender signing
-QPR’s signing of Nigerian left-back Taye Taiwo is expected to be confirmed later today.
- Taiwo, 26, is to join the R’s from AC Milan on an initial loan deal with a view to a permanent move in the summer.
The former Marseille player required a work permit before his move to England could be rubber-stamped.
He is likely to make his debut in Saturday’s FA Cup match against Chelsea. West London Sport

BBC/John Bennett - Adel Taarabt keen to stay at Queens Park Rangers

Adel Taarabt has told BBC Sport he wants to stay at Queens Park Rangers.

Taarabt revealed he was set to leave until Mark Hughes was appointed as manager in place of Neil Warnock.

The 22-year-old midfielder, who is currently in Gabon with the Morocco squad ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, believes changing the manager was the right thing for the club.

"I think we needed that. I had good years with Neil Warnock but we were in a bad position," he said.

I think if Mark Hughes was not coming in maybe I was leaving in January. The situation now has changed. They want to keep me

Warnock then made Taarabt a QPR player in August 2010 following a successful loan period, and the Moroccan's good form in the Championship helped his team to win promotion to the top flight the same season.

However, in recent months his relationship with the former QPR boss soured, leading Warnock to state publicly: "If a player wants to leave, he can leave. I've never had a problem with that."

However, since Warnock was replaced by former Fulham manager Hughes earlier this month, Taarabt has resolved to stay in west London.

"I think if Mark Hughes was not coming in maybe I was leaving in January," Taarabt told BBC Sport.

"I spoke with the chairman and the situation now has changed. They want to keep me and we're going to have a discussion when we come back.

CUP OF NATIONS GROUP C FIXTURE LIST

23 Jan: Gabon v Niger
23 Jan: Morocco v Tunisia
27 Jan: Niger v Tunisia
27 Jan: Gabon v Morocco
31 Jan: Gabon v Tunisia
31 Jan: Niger v Morocco

"Mark Hughes is a great manager and I think the chairman is giving him money so he's buying players.

"I'm going to meet him and see what's going to happen."

Morocco begin their Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Tunisia on Monday.

They are one of the favourites to win the trophy and Taarabt believes the squad has the ability to go all the way to the final.

"It's going to be a big game for us, for the country and so I hope we can start well," said Taarabt.

"Yes, we are one of the favourites along with Ivory Coast and Ghana, but we just have to concentrate on our group and see what is going to happen."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16672100.stm

- See COMPILATION OF QPR Vs WIGAN MATCH REPORTS & MANAGERIAL COMMENTS

- Guardian Compilation of QPR-Wigan Photos and QPR vs Wigan: Photos from QPR vs Wigan

- VIDEO: QPR vs WIGAN - Video and also... More Extensive Video of QPR vs Wigan (Via Betacam)

GUARDIAN/Jamie Jackson

Mark Hughes gives his QPR players the structure to escape relegation

• QPR up to 16th place after 3-1 win against Wigan Athletic
• Hughes has no concerns about Joey Barton's use of Twitter

Soccer - Barclays Premier League - Queens Park Rangers v Wigan Athletic - Loftus Road

At the close, Mark Hughes raised a fist at his Queens Park Rangers project achieving lift‑off with this first league win. Nearly two weeks after succeeding Neil Warnock, the Hoops are 16th and clear of the dreaded departure lounge.

While Wigan Athletic remain rooted to the bottom and four points from safety after a tame display, Hughes said of that first win: "Predictable, I know. It was an important game for everybody and I think you saw that from the reaction of the players who stayed out a bit longer to thank the fans, which is important, because they were great today and understood what we were trying to do. So [there will be] more of the same hopefully."

Hughes has been hired to ensure QPR will again operate in the big league next season just as he was when taking over Blackburn Rovers in September 2004, whom he saved. How does it compare? "There are similarities, given the position and the pressure because we needed to win games and we had to do it quickly," Hughes said.

"When I was at Blackburn I had a group of players who were desperate to stay in the Premier League and in a sense that's what I've got here. I'm really encouraged that I've got a similar group of players and hopefully we can get a similar result."

QPR's goals came from a Heidar Helguson penalty and Akos Buzsaky's 25‑yard free-kick in the first half, which was as impressive as Tommy Smith's 30‑yard finish after 81 minutes. Hugo Rodallega produced his own contribution to the game's stunning strikes with a 66th‑minute free-kick but QPR could also afford to miss a second Helguson penalty.

Hughes said of his new charges: "They just needed a little bit of gameplan, a little bit of structure to their work and maybe that's been evident in the games that I've been involved in. That's what I do and my staff does. That's how we work, I've done that for years and years, so I understand very quickly what groups of players need, I would suggest.

"But that's credit to them because I think they worked exceptionally hard to make things happen. Unless you get that effort and commitment to what you're trying to implement on the field of play then you get no chance."

Hughes again reiterated that he has no concerns regarding Joey Barton's use of Twitter, after the midfielder had attacked Warnock on the forum on the eve of this game. "No, not at this stage," the Welshman said. "Joey understands what happens in the dressing room stays there and I don't think it will be a problem. If ever I felt that it was going to compromise us then we'd have a conversation and talk it through but certainly I haven't felt the need to do that up to this point."

Does Barton put pressure on himself? "He's a big personality and he can deal with that, he thrives on that," Hughes said. "Some players carry that well and it doesn't affect them at all. I thought he played really well. Other players try to shy away from all that because it affects their performance level. But for Joey it's water off a duck's back."

For Roberto Martínez the outlook is bleaker. "I would say that every season is tough," he said. "We have done it before [escape from relegation]. This season it will come down to the last game but it is important that we use the January window. It's clear that we need to make sure that we help the players we already have at the club to be stronger and to be brave for the next 16 games but I have huge belief in the talent in the squad." Guardian

TELEGRAPH

Queens Park Rangers manager Mark Hughes insists Joey Barton's feud with Neil Warnock is not a distraction
Mark Hughes is confident that Queens Park Rangers captain Joey Barton’s feud with his former manager, Neil Warnock, will not prove to be a distraction in his side’s attempt to secure Premier League survival.

QPR manager Mark Hughes insists Joey Barton's feud with Neil Warnock is not a distraction as his team fight for survival
No problem: Mark Hughes says Joey Barton's (above) feud with Neil Warnock is no cause for concern Photo: GETTY IMAGES

By Gerry Cox at Loftus Road

11:00PM GMT 22 Jan 2012

QPR's new manager knows his side can lift themselves into a comfortable league position as long as they continue to put in the sort of focused performance that overcame fellow strugglers Wigan on Saturday.

He does not care much for the twitterati, unlike Barton, who was tweeting furiously before and after this game.

The midfielder’s feud with Warnock has been well publicised in the media, but Hughes said: “I don’t think it will be a problem. If ever I felt it was going to compromise us we’d have a conversation and talk it through, but certainly I haven’t felt the need to do that up to this point.”

For all his noise in cyberspace, Barton was muted against Wigan and it was his midfield partner Akos Buzsaky who shone. With Alejandro Faurlin injured, the Hungarian midfielder has taken centre stage and was QPR’s outstanding player.

In between Heidar Helguson’s successful penalty and Tommy Smith’s late strike, Buzsaky scored with a superb free-kick, which was later matched by Hugo Rodallega’s set-piece strike for Wigan.

Buzsaky, who has been given a fresh chance by Hughes, said: “We all know it is a new manager and want to show what we are capable of. Now we are very compact and everyone helps each other out. With the players we have, we shouldn’t talk about survival. We should be in mid-table.”

The Wigan manager, Roberto Martínez, still believes his side can climb off the bottom of the table. “We’ve survived in the Premier League for seven seasons. This result was tough to take, but I remain optimistic that our experience is going to help us.”

Next weekend QPR face Chelsea in the FA Cup fourth round, with John Terry returning to the scene where he is alleged to have racially abused Anton Ferdinand.

Asked if he would speak to Ferdinand about it, Hughes said: “Only to get it clear in my own mind where everybody is with it. I’d like to think football will take the real lead. We hope we can have a good game of football here next week.” Telegraph
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/footbal....istraction.html

SPORTING LIFE
SPORTING LIFE

AKOS HAPPY TO GET HIS BUZZ BACK

Akos Buzsaky contemplated walking out of QPR at the start of this month, but the forgotten man is now looking forward to a prolonged run in Mark Hughes' first-team after handing the Welshman his first league win in charge.

Buzsaky received a huge standing ovation when he came off towards the end of Saturday's 3-1 win over Wigan after playing a big part in orchestrating the Latics' downfall.

The Hungarian put QPR 2-0 up after Heidar Helguson's spot-kick with an exquisite free-kick on the stroke of half-time, and he could have ended the match with a hat-trick had it not been for the brilliant performance of Wigan goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi.

Had it not been for a change of manager, and an injury to team-mate Alejandro Faurlin, however, Buzsaky may have been lining up for another team.

The 29-year-old had hit rock bottom after being frozen out by former manager Neil Warnock - Saturday was his first home league start of the season - and had thought about leaving the Londoners.

"In the Christmas period I wasn't even travelling with the team," Buzsaky said.

"That was a really hard, testing time for me, to be as low (as that).

"Of course I thought about maybe moving. When you are sidelined that much you think about everything because I wanted to play football.

"I tried to give 100 per cent in training but for some reason I wasn't in the plans."

With Faurlin out for the rest of the season, Buzsaky is now determined to put the past behind him and be a part of the Rangers renaissance under Hughes.

"All that is in the past now. I have been there and I have shown that I am strong enough to get through it," he said.

"It was very unfortunate (Faurlin) had the injury.

"Everyone thought of him and we have tried to support him. We needed someone to fill his position and I have always been available and have always wanted to play so now I have my chance and I want to take it."

Hughes has been active in his pursuit of new players since his appointment, with Nedum Onuoha, Taye Taiwo, Alex and Henrique all in talks with the club over potential moves to Loftus Road.

His players did their best to persuade him no new arrivals are needed yesterday, however.

Helguson, despite missing a second-half penalty, put in a good shift up front and substitute Tommy Smith fired home a memorable 25-yard drive with 10 minutes to go to seal the win.

Rangers are now two points clear of the drop zone and Buzsaky thinks the club can stop worrying about the prospect of relegation.

"Today showed that we are better than where we sit in the table and we have to push forward now," he said.

"With the players we have, we shouldn't talk about surviving, we should be confident about finishing mid-table."

Bottom side Wigan wasted two early chances to go ahead through Steve Gohouri and Victor Moses and other than picking the ball out of the net from Hugo Rodallega's free-kick - which made it 2-1 - Rangers keeper Paddy Kenny had a quiet day.

Wigan have the worst scoring record in the top four divisions but manager Roberto Martinez admits he will not be able to bring in a prolific striker this month so he wants his team to start chipping in with more goals from all positions.

"That 20 goals a season man is the hardest thing is to find in world football," Martinez said.

"They cost you a lot of money. We need to be creative and need to score more goals from other areas of the pitch.

"That's something we need to develop from within the squad because unfortunately we won't be able to go out and spend the money that a clinical goal scorer costs." Sporting Life

SKY

Dyer not quitting yet

QPR man hopes to be back for last month of season

Last updated: 22nd January 2012

Dyer: injury nightmare

It's paramount though that we stay in the league this season and we will really kick on with the new manager.

Kieron Dyer told Goals on Sunday about his battle to recover his fitness - and admitted he would consider retiring if he injured his hamstrings again.

The former England international has endured a series of serious injuries in the last four seasons and his hoodoo struck again three minutes into his QPR debut against Bolton in August when he injured his foot.

He admits it has been tough to spend more time on the sidelines, but says he is not ready to hang up his boots because his latest injury is not connected to the hamstring problems he has struggled with in the last few years.

He told Goals on Sunday: "If I'd been injured on my hamstrings, because I was getting hamstring injuries in the past, then I probably would call it a day.

"But this was a freak injury and I should have had the surgery the first time around. If I'd had it when I first did it then I'd be back playing by now.

"It was a one-off injury and there's nothing as a player you can do. That's why I will continue to play football.

"I'm used to it now because it's been like it for the last four years. Obviously you have your low points and it's hard, but you want to play football.

"When you're not it's frustrating because you want to help your team-mates and you want to help your team because they need you. That's what keeps you going."

Operation

Dyer said his latest lay-off has been particularly frustrating because the foot should have been operated on in August.

Instead, his doctors opted for a programme of rehabilitation, only for the injury to reoccur three months later, and that has delayed his return to action.

He said: "I thought I'd be okay, but after a few weeks we knew something was wrong and I've finally had to have an operation, which is unfortunate.

"When we first saw the specialist he decided not to operate and said to do a three-month rehab programme and hopefully that would do the trick.

"I did the three months, worked my socks off and was looking great in training, then five minutes into the first reserve game the same thing happened again. That's when we knew it was time to operate."

Squad
If his recovery goes to plan then Dyer believes he could be fit to feature for QPR in the last month of the season.

However, he fears that he could be left out of Mark Hughes' 25-man Premier League squad, which has to be finalised by the end of January, and that would exclude him from playing again this season.

He said: "I'll probably be back for the last month of the season, but the problem is obviously that Premier League teams have to put the 25-man squad in by the end of January.

"So if the manager Mark Hughes uses the whole 25 then I will not play this season, although you can play in cup games so hopefully we make it to the FA Cup Final!

"If he only names 23 or 24 in the squad then I have a chance of maybe featuring in the last month of the season.

"If you know you're not going to be involved then from a rehab point of view you take it easier and you don't go flat out. You just get yourself right for pre-season.

"It can work in both ways. If you're not in the 25 you can take your time and not rush back, but if there's a chance then you're going to do everything in your power."

Professional
Dyer was also full of praise for new manager Hughes, who replaced Neil Warnock in the QPR hotseat last week.

He believes his new boss brings plenty of pedigree to the club and has backed him to steer them to Premier League survival this season.

Dyer added: "He nearly got the Chelsea job in the summer, so that goes to show what kind of manager he is.

"He's got a professional outfit with Eddie Niedzwiecki, Mark Bowen and Kevin Hitchcock; they're very professional and thorough.

"He left Fulham, who finished eighth in the league, to come and take a job at QPR. If he can keep us up this season with the owners and their vision then QPR is a great place to be.

"It's paramount though that we stay in the league this season and we will really kick on with the new manager."
http://www.skysports.com/tv_show/story/0,,12384_7448308,00.html?

- Two Year Flashback: Adel Taarabt "Slams Axed QPR Boss"

- Two Year Flashback: Nigel Quashie (Re)Joins QPR

- The Explanation for AC Milan's Player, Kevin Boateng’s Frequent Injuries!

- QPR Video Flashbacks: Some 1990 Era QPR Goals/Wins

QPR Report Sunday: Wigan Reports and Photos...QPR Flashbacks: Quashie ReJoins QPR...Taarabt "Slams Axed QPR Boss"...African Cup Updates

2012-01-22T08:27:00.018Z

-
- Guardian Compilation of QPR-Wigan Photos
-
- See Also: - QPR vs Wigan: Photos from QPR vs Wigan

- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- See COMPILATION OF QPR Vs WIGAN MATCH REPORTS & MANAGERIAL COMMENTS

- VIDEO: QPR vs WIGAN - Video and also... More Extensive Video of QPR vs Wigan (Via Betacam)

- NEXT: Chelsea (And New Statement re Chelsea Fans/Racism!)

- African Cup Updates

- Year Ago: Ishmael Miller Joins QPR on Loan...And "On This Day in Football"

- Two Year Flashback: Adel Taarabt "Slams Axed QPR Boss"

- Two Year Flashback: Nigel Quashie (Re)Joins QPR

- The Explanation for AC Milan's Player, Kevin Boateng’s Frequent Injuries!

- QPR Video Flashbacks: Some 1990 Era QPR Goals/Wins

- Portsmouth Again in Financial Trouble

- QPR will Play Newcastle United (Away) in the Fifth Round of the FA Youth Cup

- Tuesday, January 24: The Asian Football Awards: Nominees Include Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal...Also a couple of other QPR Nominations

- The Current Bottom Six Premiership Clubs: Their Remaining Fixtures

- Latest QPR Player Signing Reports/Gossip

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

1 Man City 21 41 51
2 Man Utd 21 32 48
3 Tottenham 21 18 46
4 Chelsea 22 15 41
5 Arsenal 21 7 36
6 Newcastle 22 2 36
7 Liverpool 22 4 35
8 Stoke 22 -10 30
9 Norwich 22 -4 29
10 Sunderland 22 5 27
11 Aston Villa 22 -3 27
12 Fulham 22 -3 26
13 Swansea 22 -4 26
14 Everton 22 -4 26
15 West Brom 22 -9 25
16 QPR 22 -15 20
17 Bolton 22 -19 19
18 Blackburn 22 -12 18
19 Wolves 22 -15 18
20 Wigan 22 -26 15--

QPR's First Prem Home Win Since Chelsea: Compilation of Match Reports & Managerial Comments

2012-01-21T20:45:00.007Z

-
- QPR vs Wigan: Photos from Today

- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- QPR will Play Newcastle United (Away) in the Fifth Round of the FA Youth Cup

- Three Days From Now: The Asian Football Awards: Nominees Include Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal...Also a couple of other QPR Nominations

- The Current Bottom Six Premiership Clubs: Their Remaining Fixtures

- Latest QPR Player Signing Reports/Gossip

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

QPR vs WIGAN - Video

- More Extensive Video of QPR vs Wigan (Via Betacam)

1 Man City 21 41 51
2 Man Utd 21 32 48
3 Tottenham 21 18 46
4 Chelsea 22 15 41
5 Arsenal 21 7 36
6 Newcastle 22 2 36
7 Liverpool 22 4 35
8 Stoke 22 -10 30
9 Norwich 22 -4 29
10 Sunderland 22 5 27
11 Aston Villa 22 -3 27
12 Fulham 22 -3 26
13 Swansea 22 -4 26
14 Everton 22 -4 26
15 West Brom 22 -9 25
16 QPR 22 -15 20
17 Bolton 22 -19 19
18 Blackburn 22 -12 18
19 Wolves 22 -15 18
20 Wigan 22 -26 15

QPR Official Site

HUGHES: 'JUST THE BEGINNING'
Posted on: Sat 21 Jan 2012

Mark Hughes insists this is 'just the beginning' for his new QPR side.

Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk after the R's eased to a 3-1 win against rock-bottom Wigan Athletic at Loftus Road, the Rangers gaffer heaped praise on his charges.

"I'm delighted for the guys," he said.

"They've been first class in their attitude since the day I walked through the door.

"We've asked them to take a hell of a lot on board, but they've been excellent.

"Today they worked exceptionally hard to make the game happen.

"It was all happening.

"It was a great game for the neutral.

"When you're as emotionally involved as I am, and the players and the fans are, it's always a little bit more difficult to watch, but I'm sure we'll all go home with a smile on our face tonight.

"It was end-to-end, but we fully deserved to come out on top."

After Heidar Helguson's penalty opened the scoring, Akos Buzsaky doubled the R's lead with a free-kick of the highest order.

Hugo Rodallega pulled one back for the Latics with a fine set-piece of his own, before Tommy Smith saved the best until last, with a 30-yard blockbuster.

"No Premier League games are easy, but each and every player stepped up, and of course, we scored two fantastic goals," Hughes said.

"They were equally as outstanding as each other - and Rodallega's was top drawer too.

"When Smith's went in I felt we were quite comfortable."

Despite the result, Hughes refused to get too carried away, concluding: "We fully understand what's ahead of us.

"This is just the beginning for this group of players.

"We know we need home wins and we've got one today, so we're all delighted.

"All in all, it was a very satisfying win.

http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/TheGaffer/0,,10373~2584316,00.html

DAVE MCINTYRE/WEST LONDON SPORT

QPR boss hails ‘excellent’ Buzsaky

Boss Mark Hughes praised Akos Buzsaky after the Hungarian played a starring role in QPR’s 3-1 victory over Wigan.

Buzsaky, frozen out by Hughes’ predecessor Neil Warnock, scored with a spectacular free-kick to help Rangers to their first league win under the new manager.

Buzsaky netted QPR’s second goal.
“Technically, Akos is a good player and it’s obvious he has ability,” said Hughes.

“He hasn’t played many games and was flagging towards the end so I took him off, but he was excellent today.”

Rangers’ win against the Premier League’s bottom side took them out of the bottom three and eased their fears of an immediate return to the Championship.

But Hughes warned that they still have a tough battle ahead as they look to avoid the drop.

He said: “We’ve now got to show that kind of attitude and determination in every game.

“We know it’s going to be tough, but you’ve obviously got a better chance when you play with that kind of commitment.”

Meanwhile, Rangers are assessing a hamstring strain suffered by striker DJ Campbell, who was substituted at half-time.

“It’s a tweak. We’re hopeful it’s not too bad,” Hughes revealed.

http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/qpr-boss-hails-excellent-buzsaky/

SPORTING LIFE

HUGHES HAILS RANGERS' TOGETHERNESS

Mark Hughes hailed the performance of his players after seeing them deliver him his first Premier League win as QPR manager against Wigan this afternoon.

Rangers seemed in freefall under Hughes' predecessor Neil Warnock, but the Welshman steered his team out of the relegation zone with a comprehensive 3-1 victory over bottom side Wigan.

Despite an edgy start, Rangers never looked in danger of not recording their first league home win since October as goals from Akos Buszaky, Heidar Helguson and Tommy Smith sealed the victory in front of a jubilant Loftus Road crowd while Hugo Rodallega was on the scoresheet for the visitors.

Rumours of dressing room unrest had dogged Warnock during the latter part of his tenure at the west London club, but Rangers put on a united display today, much to Hughes' pleasure.

"I'm delighted. It was a good performance," Hughes said.

"It's not easy winning Premier League games you give yourself a better chance if you are committed and you work hard. That's what we did today.

"The lads have been working exceptionally hard since I came here. I have only been here two weeks but when you are down near the bottom of the league it's important to show commitment and the right attitude and the lads are doing that so a lot of credit has to go to them.

"It hasn't been easy for them but they have shown character, they have come together as a group and I have sensed there is a real togetherness here."

Rangers' task was made a lot easier when James McCarthy inexplicably handled Joey Barton's corner in the 32nd minute when he realised he could not get across to head the midfielder's in-swinging ball clear.

Helguson made no mistake from 12 yards and the home side dominated the match from then on.

Roberto Martinez, whose Wigan side have won just three times this term, lamented the midfielder's error.

"It was the wrong decision (from McCarthy)," the Spaniard said.

"Somehow he felt that someone was going to get across him and he used his arm to hit the ball. That was a really disappointing decision because it cost us dearly.

"The first goal in this kind of game is always very important and from then on we were a little bit nervous."

Martinez's team remain rooted to the foot of the table and their next fixture is against high-flying Tottenham a week on Tuesday.

The Latics have not been out of the bottom three since October, but their manager is confident his team will avoid the drop once more after flirting with relegation ever since they were promoted in 2005.

"I am really, really confident we will stay up," Martinez said.

"We have to play a lot better than today, though, that's clear. We went through a spell of eight straight defeats but we overcame that. We are ready. There are 16 games to go. We know we need to get eight wins and I feel we are well capable of doing that.

"We will carry on working to try to improve the squad. We had a couple of injuries today and without them we were a bit soft.

"We will use the transfer window to try to help the players we have at the club, but we already have belief and desire to do it."

Hughes has been active in his pursuit of new players since arriving at Loftus Road, with Nedum Onuoha, Taye Taiwo, Alex and Henrique all in talks with the club over potential moves to Loftus Road.

His fringe players did their best to persuade him no new arrivals are needed today, however.

Buszaky curled in a brilliant free-kick on the verge of half-time and Smith's 25-yard rocket sealed the win in the second half. Helguson could have added a second in the second half from the spot but his effort was saved by Ali Al-Habsi.

Hughes was particularly keen to shower praise on Buszaky, a player who was frozen out under Warnock.

"He is a good player. I thought it would be a tight game today and I knew he has ability from set plays. Thankfully it paid off," Hughes added.

The Welshman hopes to sign at least one new addition by the start of next week.

"I will get some updates tomorrow, no doubt," he said.

"I would hope there would be some progress on some of them by Monday." Sporting Life

Dave Mcintyre/West London Sport
QPRJoey makes noise but Akos speaks volumes

Amid the furore created by a QPR midfielder publicly mocking his former manager, another did his talking on the pitch and seized the chance to shine following Neil Warnock’s departure.

Akos Buzsaky had already given Warnock’s successor food for thought with two promising performances, before helping Mark Hughes to his first league win as Rangers boss with a fine display and a spectacular goal.

Joey Barton, meanwhile, had a decent game.

And Barton would do well to sum up in 140 characters what Nietzsche would have made of Buzsaky’s contribution to the Rangers cause this week compared with his.

Smith scored a cracker.
Not that Buzsaky did it all himself. Heidar Helguson was excellent throughout and set the ball rolling with a 33rd-minute penalty.

Buzsaky doubled the lead shortly before half-time with a brilliant 30-yard free-kick that went in off the post.

And after Hugo Rodallega pulled a goal back with a superb free-kick of his own, Helguson missed from the spot before Tommy Smith’s long-range screamer sealed a crucial win against the Premier League’s bottom side.

Barton was back after the suspension he incurred for being sent off in Rangers’ last home league game, against Norwich.

That match proved to be Warnock’s last at Loftus Road and after it he staunchly defended the controversial player’s conduct – as he did on many occasions following Barton’s August move from Newcastle.

Barton thanked him with a tirade of criticism on Twitter in the build-up to this match, which Rangers desperately needed to win in order to ease their relegation fears.

Fortunately for the R’s, the unassuming Buzsaky has been out to prove his point in a very different way.

He shot wide after a clever turn and run, before having a free-kick tipped away by keeper Ali Al-Habsi during a lively opening.

Barton did play a part in the all-important opening goal, as it was his corner which James McCarthy inexplicably handled.

Helguson tucked away the resulting penalty and Buzsaky’s subsequent strike gave QPR a two-goal cushion at the break.

The Hungarian was just as impressive in the second half, connecting with a blistering volley from the edge of the penalty area which Al-Habsi did well to push over.

After Rodallega’s goal gave Wigan hope, Helguson was given the chance to score his second of the match – and 10th of the season – when he was clumsily fouled by Gary Caldwell.

This time Al-Habsi kept out Helguson’s penalty, diving to his right to claw the ball away.

But he could do nothing when Smith, on as a half-time substitute for the injured DJ Campbell, let fly with a 30-yarder that flew into the corner of the net
http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/joey-makes-noise-but-akos-speaks-volumes/

MANAGER COMMENTS AUDIO/VIDEO

HUGHES/BBC - CLICK TO LISTEN

QPR manager Mark Hughes praises a '"mentally strong" performance from his new side in a 3-1 home Premier League win over bottom club Wigan.
Goals from Heidar Helguson, Akos Buzsaky and Tommy Smith lifted QPR out of the relegation zone and give Hughes his first Premier League victory since taking charge at Loftus Road, and only Rangers' second home win of the season.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16667296.stm?

AUDIO/VIDEO - MARK HUGHES/SKY - CLICK TO LISTEN
?\There was little that the R's number one could do about Wigan's next attempt, however, as the visitors pulled a goal back to ensure a nervy finale.

Buzsaky was penalised for a foul on Maynor Figueroa 25 yards from goal, before Rodallega bent a wonderful effort into the top right-hand corner, leaving the watching Kenny with no chance.

Moments later, the Latics spurned a great chance to put themselves on terms.

Ronnie Stam freed fellow substitute Conor Sammon in the box, but the Irish forward could only shoot wide of the left-hand post from close range.

QPR were handed a controversial penalty - their second spot-kick of the afternoon - in the 73rd minute.

Caldwell was punished for a push into the back of Helguson, with referee Mr Moss once again pointing to the spot.

Video replays, however, suggested that the challenge came outside of the box.

Perhaps justice was done, therefore, when Al Habsi dived to his right to tip away Helguson's second penalty of the afternoon with a magnificent stop.

Helguson almost redeemed himself just two minutes later, with his outrageous snap-shot from range only just going past the right-hand post.

Rangers were soon on the attack again, with Mackie lashing an effort over the bar on 78 minutes, following Wright-Phillips' measured ball.

But victory was finally secure for the R's nine minutes from time thanks to another splendid strike.

Barton's outstanding sliding tackle started the move, before Wright-Phillips found substitute Smith.

Thereafter, the former Watford man drove at the Latics defence before curling a fabulous effort into the top left-hand corner of the net from fully 30 yards.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Hall, Campbell (Smith 46), Mackie, Buzsaky (Derry 83), Barton, Young, Helguson, Wright-Philips, Ferdinand.

Subs: Cerny, Orr, Bothroyd, Ramage, Macheda.

Goals: Helguson (pen 33), Buzsaky (45), Smith (81)

Bookings: Barton (70), Young (85)

Wigan Athletic: Al Habsi, Gohouri, McCarthy, Caldwell, Watson, Moses, Gomez (Crusat 61), McArthur (Sammon 46), Boyce (Stam 69), Rodallega, Figueroa.

Subs: Pollitt, Di Santo, McManaman, Lopez.

Goals: Rodallega (66)

Bookings: McCarthy (32), Gohouri (44)

Referee: Mr J Moss

Attendance: 16,002 (392 away)
http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10373~59424,00.html

WIGAN OFFICIAL SITE

Rodallega rocket isn't enough to pull off fight back at Loftus Road

Report by Nick Taylor

It was a game of spectacular goals and set pieces, both saved and scored today as Hugo Rodallega scored a contender for goal of the month with a curling right-footed free kick but, QPR put forward their contenders as well.

QPR went ahead with a Heidar Helguson penalty following a handball in the box by James McCarthy. They then made it 2-0 through an Akos Buzsaky free kick before half time. Rodallega's strike gave Latics hope but then QPR were given another penalty which was expertly saved by Ali Al Habsi

On 81 minutes the game was finished off when Tommy Smith smashed a shot in from 35 yards.

Latics travelled to a blustery and rainy London with three changes to their team as Steve Gohouri replaced the injured Antolin Alcaraz, Ben Watson came in for Albert Crusat and Emmerson Boyce coming in for Ronnie Stam.

In what was QPR manager Mark Hughes' first game, Latics almost made it very uncomfortable twice within the first seven minutes of the game. Firstly through Gohouri who found space in the area from a free kick but, saw his placed shot edge just wide of the post and then Victor Moses found space down the left hand side but, his ball across goal seemed to be in slow motion and nobody could get onto the end of it.

Al Habsi was in wonderful form once again this afternoon and he pulled off a string of saves that kept the game level but, when McCarthy gave away a penalty for handball, there was nothing the keeper could do about as Helguson tucked the ball into the bottom corner despite the Omani diving the right way.

It then became worse for Latics as another foul was made, this time by Gohouri on the edge of the area and Buzsaky punished the Ivorian defender and his team mates as he whipped the ball over the wall and into the net.

Roberto Martinez ringed the changes and brought on Conor Sammon for James McArthur at half time, with Stam and Crusat also making appearances in the second half.

The game struggled to pick up pace, but when Gohouri was fouled on the egde of the QPR area, Rodallega did the honours to turn in his second goal of the season.

The strike was beautiful to say the least as it curled around the wall and knicked the post on the way in.

More twists and turns were to come as Gary Caldwell gave away a penalty but, Al Habsi's outstretched right hand denied Helguson a second and then on 81 minutes, substitute Tommy Smith found himself in space 35 yards out and hammered it home. Smith's goal has to be admired but the Latics midfielders should have closed down better.

The game ended with yet more fouls and little creative play as QPR saw the game out.

Latics remain in 20th place and four points away from the safety mark.
http://www.wiganlatics.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10429~59424,00.html

Jamie Jackson/Guardian

QPR beat Wigan to give new manager Mark Hughes first league win

On taking over at QPR, Mark Hughes talked about his players having to understand quickly what was required. On this evidence it is to adhere to a tight shape, fan out when in possession to offer options, and shoot more.

Simple, maybe, but in the last days of Neil Warnock QPR too often lost their way and games when teams got at them. Here, Tommy Smith's 79th-minute 30-yard shot that sealed the win illustrated Hughes's point when he also stated that conversion not creation was what has hobbled QPR this season.

A dire run of two points from 27 is now five from 30 and Hughes said: "I'm delighted ï¿½ a good performance, initially we were a little apprehensive but I thought we settled reasonably quickly and started to get the ball down to pass and move."

Asked if his players had worked specifically on being more ruthless in front of goal, he said: "We're working on everything in fairness. But fair play to the lads it's been a difficult period ï¿½ only two weeks since we've come through the door, for them to show the attitude and commitment that they're doing shows them great credit. It's not easy when you're down the bottom end of table and you have to have mental strength ï¿½ I sense there's a real togetherness."

Despite this being a contest between two sides stuck in the exit chamber of the Premier League this was a riveting watch. Bottom place (Wigan) against 18th (QPR) in late January sounded like an advert for a tense and torpid affair but it was pacy and entertaining to the close as Hughes registered his first Premier League victory as QPR manager.

Wigan's Victor Moses raced down the left from near halfway to leave Luke Young flailing before zipping a ball across Paddy Kenny that no team-mate could convert. This followed Jordi Gï¿½mez delivering a cross that a dozing home defence allowed Steve Gohouri to meet unmarked but he missed wide right.

Despite their more clinical edge, QPR still spurned chances. DJ Campbell's smart dummy allowed the ball to find Heidar Helguson but after he ran at the defence a left-foot effort went wide.

Campbell looked sharp until opportunity came knocking: a flipped pass from Joey Barton removed the defence but found only a static Campbell and strike partner Helguson.

Akos Buzsaky then missed with two attempts though he would end the period planting a 25-yard free-kick beyond Ali al-Habsi that pinged in off the right post. Preceding this the muscular Jamie Mackie beat a clutch of players and blazed the ball at Wigan's goalkeeper who saw it swerve and saved with a left glove.

From the ensuing corner QPR won the penalty that opened their account. Barton's delivery from the left quadrant was poor but James McCarthy decided to stick out an arm and handle the ball for some reason. Helguson stroked home for a ninth of the campaign.

When Hugo Rodallega, one of the too many quiet visiting players, blasted a 30-yard free-kick beyond Kenny that was 2-1 and Wigan had a glimmer. But the home side continued to pour forward and before Smith's killer strike QPR could afford to miss a penalty ï¿½ Helguson this time seeing his kick produce a fine save from Habsi to his right.

The Hoops are now 16th and clear of danger, for the moment at least. But Roberto Martï¿½nez's side continue at the bottom, having scored a paltry 19 times, this league's lowest. He said: "We couldn't control the game and we got punished from two dead-ball situations and obviously a very unfortunate penalty from our point of view. Once we got the goal back we were starting to get on the ball ,we were starting to push Queens Park Rangers back.

"But we are disappointed because we expected to come here and have a better performance all-round."

Martï¿½nez is targeting eight wins from the last 16 games for survival ï¿½ not impossible, but hard.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/jan/21/qpr-wigan-athletic-premier-league

GERRY COX/TELEGRAPH

By Gerry Cox at Loftus Road

While all the attention was on Joey Barton and his Twitter feud with Neil Warnock, it was three of the old guard who gave QPR their first victory under new manager Mark Hughes and lifted them out of the relegation zone.

Heidar Helguson, Akos Buzsaky and Tommy Smith were stalwarts of QPR's Championship-winning side last season, and scored the goals to give QPR their first league win at Loftus Road since beating Chelsea last October.

And with Barton uncharacteristically quiet on his return from a three-match suspension, it was Buzsaky, the Hungarian who came in from the cold who ran the show for QPR.

Buzsaky, nicknamed the White Pele by Rangers fans, had hardly played once Barton was signed last summer. But Mark Hughes recalled him last week and the Hungarian midfielder outshone Barton and his other expensive team-mates to set QPR on the road to victory.

Buzsaky was at the heart of QPR's best moves, and had a stinging shot turned away by Ali Al-Habsi shortly before Heidar Helguson opened the scoring with a 33rd minute penalty. It was a needless concession by Wigan, with James McCarthy handling the ball as a Barton corner flew in at head height, and Helguson drove the ball home from the penalty spot.

Buzsaky then had another fierce drive well saved before making it 2-0 shortly before half-time. DJ Campbell was stopped crudely by Steve Gohouri as he ran in on goal, and Buzsaky hit the resulting free-kick in perfectly from 30 yards, the ball going in off the inside of the far post.

That looked to have put the game out of the reach of Wigan, who had hardly threatened Paddy Kenny's goal after the opening few minutes. A Jordi Gomez free-kick was flicked goalwards by Hugo Rodallega, and a Victor Moses cross flew across the face of goal, but other than that it was all QPR in the first half.

Luke Young almost scored with a fluke, his mis-hit cross heading for the far corner of goal before it was away by Al Habsi, who also saved Jamie Mackie's long-range shot.

The Wigan keeper continued to defy QPR after half-time, making another great stop from a brilliant volley by Buzsaky. From the resulting corner, Barton had a simpler chance but fluffed his shot.

Just as the home supporters thought they were home and dry, chanting â€œThank You Neil Warnockâ€ in tribute to the former manager, Rodallega got Wigan back in contention with a 66th minute free-kick.

The Colombian striker was in a similar spot to Buzsaky, if not slightly farther out, but hit the ball sweetly to curl it past Kenny and give his side some hope. Wigan would have been level if Connor Sammon had not dragged his shot wide of the far post, and then Al Habsi saved another penalty from Helguson after Gary Caldwell was harshly ruled to have held him back.

Al-Habsi dived to his right to make the save, thowing Wigan another lifeline. But Tommy Smith led a break from QPR's penalty area, exchanging passes with Shaun Wright-Phillips before hitting an unstoppable shot from 25 yards past Al Habsi in the 80th minute.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/footbal....tch-report.html

PAUL HIRST/INDEPENDENT

Hughes registers first league win as QPR manager

Mark Hughes registered his first Barclays Premier League win as QPR
manager with a convincing victory over hapless Wigan at Loftus Road.

Rangers started nervously, but took the lead in the 32nd minute when Heidar Helguson slotted home from the spot after James McCarthy handled in the box and they then made it 2-0 on the stroke of half-time thanks to Akos Buzsaky's brilliant free-kick.

Hugo Rodallega pulled one back for the Latics with a strike of equal brilliance before Tommy Smith blasted home from 25 yards to complete the win following Helguson's failure to convert a second penalty.

This morning's back pages may have concentrated on Joey Barton's Twitter tirade against former boss Neil Warnock, but the only thing Hughes was concerned with today was the three points.

The Welshman saw his team slip into the relegation zone after losing his first game in charge against Newcastle last week, but they are now out of the bottom three.

After last week's tricky fixture on Tyneside, Hughes must have been encouraged to see Wigan - who have won just three times this term - were next up.

The bottom-of-the-table Latics, with the worst scoring record in the top four divisions, started strongly, however, and should have been ahead inside three minutes.

Steve Gohouri gained two yards on his marker to meet Jordi Gomez's cross but he side-footed a yard wide with Rodallega lurking at the back post.

Victor Moses then cut in from the left, skipped past two challenges and fired across the box but no-one could tap in.

Barton sent Luke Young down the right for QPR and his miscued cross drifted towards goal, causing Ali Al Habsi to back-pedal and tip over athletically.

The move seemed to kick Rangers into gear. DJ Campbell just missed a chance to prod home before lashing a chance wide following a mistake by Gohouri. Shaun Wright-Phillips then had a shot blocked by McCarthy, before Gohouri put in a crucial block to deny the winger moments later.

The former Manchester City man then laid the ball off to Buzsaky, who turned his marker before firing a superb 30-yard effort that beat the out-stretched Al Habsi, but flew inches wide.

The Latics stopper denied Jamie Mackie moments later with a fine save, but a glaring error from McCarthy then gifted the hosts the lead in the 32nd minute.

Inexplicably, the midfielder chose to palm the ball away from danger from Barton's corner when he realised he could not head the inswinging cross clear and Jon Moss pointed to the spot.

McCarthy went into the book and Helguson slotted home for his eighth league strike of the season.

Al Habsi did well to tip Buzsaky's 25-yard free-kick around the post, but the Hungarian beat the Latics stopper with two minutes of the half left.

Gohouri's trip on Campbell gave QPR a dangerous free-kick 25 yards out and Buzsaky curled a wonderful effort over the wall and into the net off a post to make it 2-0.

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez introduced striker Connor Sammon for James McArthur at the break while Smith came on for Campbell for the hosts.

Gomez ploughed a volley in to the stands after a quiet opening to the second half.

The ball then popped up to Buzsaky at the other end following Wright-Phillips' lay-off and he fired a peach of a volley which Al Habsi tipped around the post with a brilliant diving save.

The visitors found a way back into the game in the 65th minute when Barton upended Maynor Figueroa on the edge of the box and Rodallega curled in the resulting free-kick which had Paddy Kenny rooted to the spot.

Sammon slipped in behind the QPR defence and calmly controlled the ball, but could only fire a yard wide of Kenny's goal.

Referee Moss awarded his second penalty of the afternoon with 17 minutes left when he adjudged Gary Caldwell had climbed over Helguson's back in the box.

The Icelandic striker stepped up to take the spot-kick but Al Habsi saved this time down low to his right.

Helguson came within inches of making amends moments later when he hammered a powerful volley that sailed inches wide of Al Habsi's goal, with the former Bolton man easily beaten.

Mackie had the perfect chance to put the game beyond Wigan's reach with 12 minutes left when he galloped clear following Wright-Phillips' through-ball, but the home crowd, and Hughes, despaired as the forward blasted over.

Smith put the game beyond doubt the following minute, however, when he crashed a thundering piledriver past Al Habsi from 25 yards.

Buzsaky received a standing ovation when he was replaced by Shaun Derry as Rangers ran out comfortable winners.

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/footb....r-6292764. html

TONY FERNANDES TWEETS!

Through thick or thin I will be there. This was one of the sweetest days of my life. I shall sleep with a big smile on my face. Come on you rangers.

What a great game. Well done all. Players played their heart out.

Love you tommy smith. What a goal.

What a goal. What a goal. Great one akos.

Great penalty. Well done heidar.

QPR Report Saturday: Wigan Perspective: Q&A...Barton Tweets...Warnock Writes About Post-QPR

2012-01-21T08:03:00.010Z

QPR Report Friday: Transfers Heating Up?...Warnock Striking Back...Obstacle to New Local Stadium?...Newcastle in the FA Youth Cup...Next: Wigan

2012-01-20T08:12:00.011Z

QPR Report Thursday: Mittal & Fernandes among QPR Nominees of Next Week's Asian Football Awards..15 Year Flashback: Port Vale Comeback

2012-01-19T08:33:00.009Z

-
- Five Days From Now: The Asian Football Awards: Nominees Include Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal...Also a couple of other QPR Nominations
-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- FIFTEEN YEARS AGO TODAY: The Comeback Against Port Vale: Match Reports & Video
-Roberts, Graham, Brevett, Murray, McDonald, Ready, Spencer, McDermott, Hatley, Brazier, Sinclair. Subs: Dichio, Impey, Maddix

- Year Update to " "QPR Thugs in New Riot Shame...Trash Pub..." Three Bristol City Fans Jailed

- Curle Applying for Bristol Rovers Job...Does NOT Get

- Four Year Flashback: The QPR Squad of January 2008

- Year Flashback: Three Part David Conn/Guardian Series on "The Super Agents"

- Nottingham Forest in Danger of Relegation

- QPR Youth's Next Round Opponents will be known next week when Newcastle play Watford (January 19 at Newcastle)

- The Current Bottom Six Premiership Clubs: Their Remaining Fixtures

- Latest QPR Player Signing Reports/Gossip

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

ASIAN FOOTBALL AWARDS at Wembley Stadium, January 24

QPR also in some other categories

Complete List of Nominees in the Various Categories

AFA Nominations Shortlist

Player of the year
Zesh Rehman (Kitchee SC - Hong Kong)Anwar Uddin (Barnet FC)

Michael Chopra (Ipswich Town)

Indy Aujla (RRFC Montegnee - Belgium)

Netan Sansara (Paeek FC - Cyprus)

Coach of the year
Nilio Bagga (Samba Soccer Schools)

Nas Bashir (Hayes & Yeading FC)

Bal Singh (Khalsa Football Academy)

Taff Islam (ProTouch and Arsenal)

Chris Dolby

Asian Woman in Football

Vanisha Patel (Charlton Women)

Rimla Akhtar (Muslim Women's Sports Foundation)

Sophia Rashid (Women United AFC)

Priti Trivedi (Scottish Premier League)

Sangi Patel (QPR)

Young Player of the year
Jasbir Singh (Solihull Moors FC)

Danny Batth (Wolves FC - on loan Sheff Weds)

Adil Nabi (West Bromwich Albion)

Aaron Singh Sekhon (Partick Thistle FC)

Malvind Benning (Walsall FC)

Football Development project of the year
Young Asian Voices (Sunderland)

Chelsea Asian Soccer Star

QPR - Player Development Centre (West London)
Samba Soccer Schools (Warwickshire)

Diversity Academy (Nottingham)

Football Foundation of the year
Zesh Rehman Foundation

Punjabi Wolves

Muslim Women's Sports Foundation

Osmani Trust

London Tigers

Investors in Football
Ilyas Khan (Accrington Stanley)

Lakshmi Mittal and Tony Fernandes (QPR)
Venkatesh and Balaji Rao (Blackburn)

Shahid Azeem

Football behind the scenes award - 'Administration'
Priti Trivedi (SPL) - Admin & Finance Manager

Raj Athwal (Watford FC) - Commercial Manager

Sunil Kaikini (Head of Media Premier League)

Ravinder Masih (Aston Villa FC) - Community Relations Manager

Javed Khan (Finance Director Premier League)

Football behind the scenes award - 'Medical'
Sangi Patel (QPR) - Physio

Dr Zaf Iqbal (Liverpool)

Jazz Sodhi (Wolves) - Head Academy Physio

Dr Ansar Zaman (Wigan FC)

Poora Singh (Birmingham FC) - Osteopath

Football Media award
Rajvir Rai (The Daily Telegraph)

Manish Bhasin (BBC)

Mayur Bhanji (World Sport Group)

Vaishali Bhardwaj (Freelance)

Karthi Gnanasegaram (BBC)

Grass Roots Heroes
Ash Rahman (ProTouch)

Bal Singh (Khalsa Football Academy)

Butch Fazal (Luton AFC)

Karl Sanghera (Concorde Rangers)

Mamun Chowdhury (Beamont Athletic)

Asian Community Club of the year
Albion Sports (Bradford)

London Tigers (London)

Sporting Khalsa (Birmingham)

London APSA (London)

Sporting Bengal (London)

Inspiration Award
Rikin Shah (power chair user - Coach - UEFA level B)

Butch Fazal (Asian Football Forum)

Permi Jhooti (FIFA Ambassador)

Piara Powar (Director FARE)

Dinesh Vijayan (Arsenal FC)

Nominations

See Asian Football Awards Site

- A Look at How Norwich and Swansea have Progressed by Buying Lower League "Rising" Players

- Year Flashback: Benni McCarthy Trialing for QPR in Reserve Game. QPR lose 2-9!

- Two Year Flashback: Chairman Briatore on all he's done for QPR; Saved the Club; Axed only One Manager; Views of 20 Pound Fans

- Four Year Flashback: QPR Chairman Paladini Assures QPR Are Not Becoming a "Feeder Club" of Chelsea!

- Forty-Five Years Ago, QPR Win the First Leg of the League Cup Semi-Final at Birmingham!

- The End of Darlington Football Club?

When Saturday Comes (WSC) Anthony Hobbys - The more things change the more QPR remain strange - Anthony Hobbs/When Saturday Comes

- "Where Are They Now...?" - News re Ex-QPRs Mike Flanagan...Joe Oaster...Simon Walton..David Kerslake

- A 2007 Interview with Mark Hughes: Why "Sparky"

- Antonio German Trialing at Scunthorpe

- 11 Year Old QPR Trainee Gets Award/Funding Help

A Forgotten Headline "QPR Advance in the FA Cup!" - QPR's First FA Cup Win in Over a Decade! Compilation of Match Reports and Comments (and Video)

2012-01-18T07:48:00.013Z

-

-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- Six Days From Now: The Asian Football Awards: Nominees Include Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal

- A Look at How Norwich and Swansea have Progressed by Buying Lower League "Rising" Players

- The Current Bottom Six Premiership Clubs: Their Remaining Fixtures

- Latest QPR Player Signing Reports/Gossip

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

- Year Flashback: Benni McCarthy Trialing for QPR in Reserve Game. QPR lose 2-9!

QPR Progress in the FA Cup

- Video of QPR's Goal

[Flashback to QPR's last FA Cup Win: Jan 17, 2001 FA Cup Replay QPR 2 (0) - 1 (1) (AET) Luton Kiwomya 90 Kiwomya 112 Mansell 1 At Loftus Road on 17-01-2001
QPR: Miklosko, Darlington, Baraclough, Plummer (Kiwomya, 35 ) , Carlisle, Perry, Rose, Connolly (Ngonge, 68 ) , Langley, Koejoe (Wardley, 90 ) , Crouch Subs not used: Harper,Morrow,
Luton: Ovendale, Fraser ( Stirling, 10 ) , Karlsen, Spring, McGowan, Whitbread, Nogan, Mansell, Holmes, Fotiadis ( Scarlett, 80 ) , Douglas ( Stein, 66 ) Subs not used: Abbey, George, Attendance: 14395 Match Report

QPR 1 MK Dons 0

EVENING STANDARD

Mark Hughes expects more from Queens Park Rangers after FA Cup progress

QPR manager Mark Hughes expects a much-improved performance from his side against Wigan this weekend.

Last night a strong-looking Rs side scraped through their FA Cup third-round replay 1-0 against MK Dons thanks to Danny Gabbidon's second-half header.

However, QPR's victory could not disguise a desperate performance in which they were fortunate to overcome their npower League One opponents.
While pleased the Hoops managed a first victory in 11 attempts, Hughes expects better against relegation rivals Wigan this weekend.

"It was very important," he said. "I think in terms of our performance we did not get anywhere near what we produced against Newcastle.

"It is a little bit unfair considering we playing on Sunday then Tuesday and that showed in our sharpness, or rather lack of sharpness.

"Credit to MK Dons, they were full of running and passed the ball really crisply and moved us around the pitch.

"It was a hard night but we stuck at it and if I have taken anything from the two games I have taken charge of, is the attitude.

"They dig in, try to work hard and try and get something from the game and that is what they did tonight.

"It is the first time we have progressed in the competition for many years and that was the prize on offer.

"That is what we were after, but we understand performance-wise we can do better.

"At the weekend we will be better prepared with
more preparation time and I am sure our performance levels will be better than what we were able to produce tonight."

Victory sets up mouth-watering FA Cup fourth-round tie against west London rivals Chelsea.

The Hoops won the league clash between the sides at Loftus Road, but the match is remembered for allegations that Chelsea's John Terry aimed racial abuse at Rs defender Anton Ferdinand. Terry has always denied the allegations.

Asked whether he had any concerns about playing Ferdinand against Chelsea, Hughes said: "No. Obviously I will speak with all the players leading into the game and get an understanding of where they are in their mind in terms of the mentality that you need to go into that game.

"It is a challenging game and a big test for us, but knowing Anton and having seen him over the years I am quite sure he will want to be involved in that game."

Ferdinand will likely feature for Hughes' side against Wigan this weekend, where he will be joined by skipper Joey Barton after suspension.

The midfielder watched from the stands at Loftus Road last night and spoke to MK Dons manager Karl Robinson after the match.

"I spoke with Joey downstairs and he was full of praise for the group of players we have got and so was their staff," Robinson said.

"They showed great respect for us and an awful lot of class in the way they got the victory in the end and the way they conducted themselves." Evening Standard

QPR Official Site - HUGHES: 'AN IMPORTANT WIN'
Posted on: Wed 18 Jan 2012

Mark Hughes believes tonight's FA Cup victory against MK Dons can be the stepping stone for an upturn in fortunes over the coming weeks.

Whilst Rangers weren't at their best in defeating the League One side, Hughes was pleased with the commitment and work-rate of his players and is confident the application and quality will begin to improve as a result.

"It was important to get that first win," he told www.qpr.co.uk, after Danny Gabbidon bagged the only goal of the game against Karl Robinson's men

"I'm told the FA Cup hasn't been kind to QPR in recent years, but it's a competition I've enjoyed throughout my career and I've always treated it with the respect it deserves.

"I was mindful of that tonight, but first and foremost it was important we got back to winning ways and we did that. I'm sure we'll build on that performance going forward."

Hughes added: "Given the fact that we hadn't been able to get a win on the board for a number of weeks it was important we got a result tonight.

"In fairness to the players it was always going to be a big ask given the schedule of playing two games in three days.

"We couldn't prepare as well as we normally would do, because of the Sunday / Tuesday factor.

"I think you could see that in some of our play. We huffed and puffed at times, but fair play to the lads, they got the result and we're in the next round, which we haven't been in for a number of years.

"The commitment and the work-rate was excellent, as it has been since we've been here."

Chelsea now lie in wait in round four, but Hughes is refusing to dwell on that tie, with the small matter of a visit form Wigan Athletic in the Barclays Premier League this weekend.

"The prize is a big one now, coming up against Chelsea, but the league is the priority this weekend," he acknowledged.

"We'll only start thinking about Chelsea once we've got the Wigan game out the way on Saturday."

Despite the victory, Hughes is fully aware of the need to improve when the Latics visit Loftus Road on Saturday.

"I've learnt a lot over the last two games, as well as in training," he said.

"There have been a lot of positives in both games, but we're also mindful that there's a lot we can build on and improve upon.

"Every single day I'm learning about the squad and they're learning about how I work and what I expect of them.

"It's a steep learning curve for everyone, but a curve that needs to be navigated as soon as possible.

"Once we get that understanding, our performances will improve and improve.

"It's important we make more positive strides ahead of what is a very big game against Wigan on Saturday
http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/TheGaffer/0,,10373~2580552,00.html

BBC - Hughes looks for QPR improvement

Queens Park Rangers boss Mark Hughes is looking for an improvement from his side after they secured the first win of his reign against MK Dons.

Tuesday's 1-0 FA Cup third round replay win was Rangers' first in 11 games and first in the competition since 2001.

It sets up a fourth-round tie against Chelsea after Danny Gabbidon scored with a second-half header.

"The desire is there for everyone to see... but we can improve," said Hughes, who took over a week ago.

"Given the run the team has been on, perhaps there is a lack of confidence in each other."

QPR, who are in the Premier League's relegation zone, struggled at times against the League One side, who passed the ball well but failed to take their chances.

Both Charlie MacDonald and Jobo Ibehre had good opportunities to open the scoring, while Shaun Wright-Phillips also had a shot saved after being put clean through.

Then, just as it looked like the game might go to extra time, with Hughes' side having been beaten by Newcastle on Sunday, Gabiddon nodded in his first goal for nearly seven years.

DID YOU KNOW?

The last time QPR won in the FA Cup was when they beat Luton 2-1 in a third-round replay on 17 January 2001

Hughes told BBC Radio 5 live: "Obviously, they had a real desire and it was a big night for them. They came here with the right attitude and gave us a real game.

"But credit to our players. They stuck at it. Everybody here understands the importance of getting a win and we are able to look forward to a good tie against Chelsea.

"The main thing was to get a win back on the board and that has been a long time coming.

"Every game we play in now is a big game because of the circumstances we find ourselves in. We have a huge game at the weekend against Wigan, which thankfully we have little bit of time to prepare for now."

Hughes, who has been out of the game for seven months since leaving Fulham, added: "The challenge is huge, but we are ready for it."

MK Dons boss Karl Robinson took heart from his side's performance as they made light work of the 31 league places between the two sides.

"I'm proud, but disappointed we didn't win," he said. "We had enough chances, but just never took them.

"Our players can come away from here feeling very proud and I thought we outplayed them for long periods of the game.

"We try to play football the right way and think that we've proven that over these two games. We've shown tonight that we can compete with a very good QPR team." http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16605312.stm

Dave McIntyre/West London Sport
Gabbidon heads QPR into fourth round

qpr

17/01/2012
by David McIntyre

QPR 1 MK Dons 0

Danny Gabbidon’s goal gave QPR their first FA Cup win for 11 years and set up a fourth-round clash with Chelsea.

Gabbidon headed home Shaun Wright-Phillips’ 73rd-minute corner, but Rangers’ victory did not mask a poor display that again underlined the need for new manager Mark Hughes to overhaul his squad – and quickly.

Hughes’ first win as R’s boss was marred by a shoddy performance despite the home team fielding almost their current first-choice line-up.

MK Dons, who didn’t exist when Rangers last won an FA Cup match, were two minutes away from knocking out their top-flight opponents 10 days ago and again came close to embarrassing them in this turgid replay.

The League One side were on top for much of the first half, with ex-Brentford striker Charlie MacDonald heading narrowly wide and then horribly missing the target after being put through by Stephen Gleeson.

At the other end, Wright-Phillips’ finish wasn’t quite as dismal after he was released by Akos Buzsaky.

But the winger, who is still awaiting his first Rangers goal, should have done better than shoot tamely at goalkeeper David Martin.

Despite injury and inactivity having a major effect on Buzsaky’s match sharpness, he was at the centre of Rangers’ best moments.

It was from the Hungarian’s left-wing corner that Shaun Williams headed into his own net, but the goal was disallowed for a foul by Shaun Derry.

Rangers continued to struggle after the break and another great chance for MK Dons was squandered when Adam Smith’s excellent right-wing cross was steered wide from close range by Jabo Ibehre.

And Rangers continued to look to Buzsaky, whose 35-yard free-kick – a blistering effort that was tipped over by Martin – was his final contribution before being substituted.

From the resulting corner, Gabbidon netted his first goal for QPR and paved the way for a west London grudge match which, given the events of October’s derby, is bound to be a fiery encounter.

It could also be extremely one-sided unless Hughes has some success in the transfer market in the coming days. West London Sport

GUARDIAN/Paul Doyle - Danny Gabbidon goal ends MK Dons' resistance and QPR's Cup drought

Danny Gabbidon's first goal in seven years means Anton Ferdinand and John Terry could meet on the pitch days before they meet in court. Queens Park Rangers, who registered their first FA Cup win since 2001, will host Chelsea in the fourth round on 28 January, four days before the England captain stands trial for allegedly racially abusing Ferdinand.

Mark Hughes, whose first home match as QPR's manager ended in a laboured win over the impressive MK Dons, said he will consult Ferdinand before picking the team to play Chelsea but expects the centre-back to take part. "Obviously I'll speak to him and get an understanding where we are but, knowing Anton, I'm quite sure he'd like to be involved."

Before then Hughes and his players must start extricating themselves from the relegation trouble into which they slipped by going 10 matches without a win prior to this unconvincing triumph over the team fifth in League One. MK Dons, who had come within one minute of eliminating QPR in the first match, began the replay with a swagger that contrasted starkly with the sloppiness of their supposed superiors, who were made to chase the ball for long periods. Karl Robinson's team should have taken the lead from one of several chances that they created in the first half. The best came in the 36th minute, when Charlie MacDonald sprung the malfunctioning QPR offside trap but fired wide with only the goalkeeper to beat.

Shaun Wright-Phillips then found himself in a similar position as QPR finally showed some incisiveness; the winger steered his shot on target but David Martin saved.

Hughes had named a strong side for the match but did not muster true quality until Akos Buzsaky sent a superb 25-yard free-kick towards the top corner in the 72nd minute. Martin produced an equally fine save but from the ensuing corner Gabbidon headed into the net. It was enough to secure victory but hardly to allay Hughes's concerns.

The manager confirmed his intention to recruit several players this month, preferably before this weekend's showdown with fellow relegation candidates Wigan Athletic. One of his chief targets is the Brazilian centre-back Alex, for whom QPR have agreed a fee with Chelsea.

"I spoke to the boy and explained what we're trying to do here and my feelings towards him as player but it's a big decision for him and some things still have to fall into place for it to be done." Hughes also said he hopes to complete the signing of another Brazilian, the striker Henrique, whose club, São Paolo, have also agreed a deal with QPR. "Talks seem to be progressing," said Hughes, who needs his team to do the same quickly.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/jan/17/qpr-mk-dons-fa-cup

MK Dons Official Site

A brave MK Dons bowed out of the FA Cup with Budweiser Third Round to a 1-0 defeat by Queens Park Rangers and were denied the chance to face Chelsea at stadiummk in the next round.

An 83rd minute header from Danny Gabbidon was all that separated the sides in the Replay at Loftus Road, after a 1-1 result at the Dons had forced a rematch, and it was a cruel way to exit the magical competition because Karl Robinson's men had out-classed their Premier League opponents on two occasions only to fall short in front of goal.

The defeat may cost them the chance to play host to Chelsea in the next round, a stage in the competition that they have never seen before, but the Dons should take bags of confidence from their performances which can only strengthen their form in League 1.

An added bonus for the Dons is the admirers they will have gained for their pass-and-move football and approach of playing with no fear. It might have been a different story had Jabo Ibehre and Charlie MacDonald converted key chances in the game, instead they are left not to ponder on what could have been, but to concentrate on their chase for the Championship.

The Dons had to get the memories of the cruel 89th minute equaliser at stadiummk out of their minds if they were to get the most out of the rematch. The visitors started brightly by imposing their shape and style on the hosts, although there were moments that would have caused a few nerves for the Dons bench especially when Shaun Williams was dispossessed near the box by Jay Bothroyd and Jamie Mackie quickly found himself on the ball but Luke Chadwick did will to recover and saw the ball out for a corner.

Bothroyd has struggled to endear himself to the Hoops fans and him the 11th minute he did little to win them over when he ghosted through the Dons defence to set up a great chance at goal, yet wildly shot over.

With quarter of an hour on the clock the possession had been with the Dons and QPR were looking to feed on the scraps of mistakes made by the Dons. Robinson's men were more than holding their own against the Hoops and Shaun Williams, despite his size and unfamiliarity with the centreback position, was proving invaluable at the back as he picked up on Wright-Phillips' poor touch on Federico Macheda's cross from the left to cut out any chance of an opening.

Although the goalmouth action was short-coming the play on the pitch was absorbing. When Jabo Ibehre intercepted a pass across midfield it offered a chance for Darren Potter to bring Adam Smith into action and the fullback, who has scored two stunners this season, unleashed a right-footed effort which fell wide of Paddy Kenny's goal.

Moments later Adam Smith was again key to the Dons' best attacks when a superb cross from the flank found poacher Charlie MacDonald but he could not turn his header on target.

At the other end Chadwick was called on for some last-ditch defending to prevent Wright-Phillips from turning in Macheda's through ball. From the resulting corner QPR thought they had score the first goal under the reign of Hughes as Shaun Derry headed home Akos Buzsaky's corner, but referee Phil Dowd was quick to rule the goal out after spotting Derry's wrestling antics of 'keeper Martin.

As the chances finally began to come in the game the Dons were able to cause a panic on the Hoops' box when Gleeson had the vision to see MacDonald in a good position and directed a fine cross for him to run onto, MacDonald had Kenny to beat and with the outside of his boot he watched in agony as the ball skimmed wide of the post.

Appeals from the Dons for a penalty came five minutes before the break when Chadwick tried to latch onto Gleeson's chipped ball into the box and went down under the challenge of Anton Ferdinand.

In a breathless spell, Buzsaky then cut the Dons open with a neat ball through for Wright-Phillips who had beaten the offside trap and had to get the better of Martin. However, Martin was alert to make himself big and managed to get a palm to Wright-Phillips' low shot away from a corner.

Buzsaky's initial corner forced another, from which Dean Bowditch raced on the counterattack but by the time he reached the 18-yard box the forward opted for the wrong next move as he flashed his shot over.

After the break both keepers were involved in year, but simple saves as Bothroyd twice called on Martin to make comfortable collections while Gleeson's shot from the edge of the box found target but Kenny never looked troubled.

The Dons, now shooting towards the 1,916-strong MK Army, were in disbelief that they had not taken the lead in the 58th minute when Smith played a superb cross into the six-yard box but Ibehre, looking to flick the ball in with a back heel somehow turned it wide of the post.

The pressure was coming all from the Dons, this time it was MacDonald who couldn't quite get his connection right as he curled Gleeson's ball past the same post that had prompted Ibehre to put his head in his hands.

Dons' dominance did not impress the home support who were extremely vocal in their encouragement of their players and of their opinions on who should and shouldn't leave the pitch.

Suddenly QPR found a surge of confidence when a free-kick deep from the left from the boot of Buzsaky brought a magnificent save from Martin, the Dons goalie had to backtrack and spring off his feet to lift the fiercely struck shot over the bar.

However, from the resulting corner Martin could do little other than watch as Wright-Phillips' corner caused disarray in the box and Lewington was left in the dust of Gabbidon as the Hoops' defender shook off the Dons captain to send a bullet header into the back of the net.

It was a shattering moment for the Dons and so undeserved too for all their positive play in the second half they had every right to fell hard done by to be trailing their hosts.

As time ticked away the Dons' hopes were fading, the R's had found their rhythm and former Don Mackie was denied a chance to double their lead as a low strike from the right of the area was blocked by Martin.

Ultimately, it was harsh on the Dons to taste defeat at Loftus Road but their Cup campaign will no doubt have won plaudits from any true football fans.

QPR (4-4-2): Kenny, Young, Gabbidon, Ferdinand, Hill, Mackie, Derry, Buzsaky (Helguson 72), Wright-Phillips, Macheda (T Smith 62), Bothroyd (Orr 86).

Subs not used: Cerny, Hall, Campbell, Ephraim.

Goal: Gabbidon 73

MK Dons (4-2-3-1: Martin, A Smith, Kouo-Doumbe, S. Williams, Lewington (c), Potter, Gleeson, Bowditch (O'Shea 83), Ibehre, Chadwick (Powell 73), MacDonald.

Subs not used: McLoughlin, Flanagan, Baldock, McNamee, G Williams.

Attendance: 10,255 (1,916 away)

http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~61454,00.html

QPR Official Site

Danny Gabbidon's 73rd-minute header earned QPR their first FA Cup victory in eleven years, thanks to a 1-0 defeat of a brave MK Dons side in this third round replay.

The reward for breaking their Cup hoodoo? A fourth round tie with West London rivals Chelsea, set to be contested at Loftus Road a week on Saturday.

Credit must be given to Karl Robinson's League One outfit, who - like in the original fixture - more than matched the R's.

But it Rangers who eventually put themselves into the next round of the competition, in Mark Hughes' first home game in charge as Rangers boss.

Shaun Wright-Phillips played architect for the winning strike, with his corner diverted home by the head of Welshman Gabbidon.

There was just a solitary change to Rangers' starting eleven for the visit of the Dons, with loanee Federico Macheda coming into the side at the expense of Heidar Helguson.

Hughes stuck with the 4-4-2 formation deployed in QPR's slender weekend defeat at Newcastle, with Paddy Kenny in goal.

Luke Young, Gabbidon, skipper for the night Anton Ferdinand and Clint Hill lined up in defence.

In midfield, Jamie Mackie and Wright-Phillips started from the flanks, with Shaun Derry and Akos Buzsaky in the centre.

Macheda was joined by Jay Bothroyd in attack.

On a bitingly cold evening in W12, it was the visitors - backed by a healthy visiting contingent from North Buckinghamshire - who enjoyed the brighter start.

Robinson's men ran Rangers close in the original tie held at stadiummk ten days ago and, much like on that afternoon, his team were passing the ball around with a great sense of purpose early on.

It was the Dons who duly fashioned the first attempt on target on 11 minutes, with Luke Chadwick shooting straight at Kenny with an effort from 20 yards-out.

The R's produced an opportunity of their own just a minute later. Macheda slipped a pass into Bothroyd down the right-hand channel, before the former Cardiff City man cut back past two opponents and blasted a shot handsomely wide of the post from the edge of the box.

But it was the Dons who continued to make the greater inroads towards goal. Spurs loanee Adam Smith went on a marauding run down the right on 24 minutes, before unleashing a bullet 30-yard effort that went just wide of the target.

Two minutes later, the visitors went their closest yet. Smith was again involved, sending over a pinpoint centre from the right that found Charlie MacDonald, whose header from ten yards went just inches wide of the upright - and a static Kenny.

Rangers produced their best opportunity to date in the 28th minute.

Bothroyd and Macheda combined before the latter played a clever through pass to Wright-Phillips, who looked certain to trouble Martin from 12 yards but for Chadwick's superb sliding intervention, which saw the ball go out for a corner.

QPR thought they had the lead from the resultant corner, after Derry turned home Buzsaky's set-piece from the left. Referee Mr Dowd, however, deemed the midfielder to have infringed upon visiting keeper David Martin.

The Dons should have led on 34 minutes. Shaun Williams' terrific slide pass from deep saw MacDonald break clear of last man Gabbidon, before the former Charlton hot-shot dragged an effort agonisingly wide of the bottom right-hand post from just inside the box.

Just three minutes before the break, Rangers missed their own gilt-edged chance to lead.

Buzsaky's through ball was to a tee, putting Wright-Phillips through on goal before the diminutive winger's subsequent shot from 12 yards forced an outstanding fingertip stop from Martin.

And Buzsaky was in the thick of the action again on the stroke of half-time, seeing his blast from the edge of the box go just inches over the bar.

The R's enjoyed the first opportunity of note in the second period on 48 minutes after Hill's cross was met by the head of Bothroyd from 12 yards, whose header was comfortably held by Martin.

Two minutes later the Dons yielded their opening chance of the half, with Gleeson shooting straight into the hands of Kenny from 25-yards out.

Bothroyd soon headed another effort into the hands of Martin - but it was the Dons who could, and probably should, have taken the lead in the 59th minute.

The impressive Smith's cross from the right was of perfection, finding Jabo Ibehre from all of six-yards out, who somehow dragged an effort past the post.

If that was close - the Dons went even nearer on 61 minutes, after Gleeson's low drive from range clipped off the foot of MacDonald before going just inches wide of the target.

Smith was at the heart of most of the Dons' positive play. The Tottenham youngster almost had the goal that his excellent display deserved on 62 minutes, skipping from the halfway line up to the edge of the box before seeing his shot whistle just past the right-hand post.

Buzsaky then almost struck with an outrageous free-kick from distance, brushing himself down after originally being felled before his 35-yard thunderbolt forced a spectacular save from Martin.

There was nothing the Dons keeper could do from the following corner, however, after QPR struck what proved to be the winner.

Gabbidon was the man of the moment, leaping to meet Wright-Phillips' centre from the right before his header nestled into the back of the net via the leg of a helpless Chadwick.

While this wasn't the prettiest of victories, Rangers are through and, with it, can look forward what promises to be another cracker against Chelsea.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry, Gabbidon, Bothroyd (Orr 86), Mackie, Buzsaky (Helguson 72), Young, Wright-Phillips, Macheda (Smith 62), Ferdinand.

Subs: Cerny, Hall, Campbell, Ephraim.

Goals: Gabbidon (73)

Bookings: Young (90)

MK Dons: Martin, Smith, Lewington, Kouo-Doumbe, Gleeson, Potter, Bowditch (O'Shea 83), MacDonald, Williams, Ibehre, Chadwick (Powell 74).

Subs: McLoughlin, Flanagan, Baldock, McNamee, Williams.

Bookings: Ibehre (74)

Referee: Mr P Dowd

Attendance: 10,855 (1916 away)
http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10373~61454,00.html

WEST LONDON SPORT

West London Sport/David McIntyre

QPR boss Hughes to continue Alex talks

17/01/2012
by David McIntyre
Mark Hughes will resume talks with Chelsea defender Alex on Wednesday and believes QPR are on course to clinch the signing of Brazilian striker Henrique.

Speaking after Rangers’ FA Cup victory against MK Dons – his first win since taking over at Loftus Road – Hughes confirmed an agreement has been reached with Chelsea and he is now trying to persuade Alex to sign.

He also said the bid to bring Sao Paulo prospect Henrique to west London “seems to be progressing”.

Hughes added: “Talks [with Alex] are ongoing. I’ve spoken to him and told him my feelings towards him as a player.

“It’s a big decision for him. We’re trying to get things finalised and get over the line with it.

“The hope is that we’ll get deals done sooner rather than later, but I can’t say for sure whether it’ll be sooner at the moment.”

QPR’s 1-0 win was their first FA Cup success for 11 years but did not hide the fact that Hughes needs to make an instant impact in the transfer market.

It also set up a fourth-round clash with the Welshman’s former club Chelsea, who were beaten 1-0 by the R’s in a highly controversial derby in October.

But Hughes insisted: “My focus is on the Wigan game at the weekend, which is a huge game for us.

“We’ll have to be better than we were tonight and [against Newcastle] on Sunday. That’s the challenge for us and we’re really up for it.

“We’ll watch this game and digest what happened, but it’s early days in my tenure here.”

http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/qpr-boss-to-continue-alex-talks/

- Two Year Flashback: Chairman Briatore on all he's done for QPR; Saved the Club; Axed only One Manager; Views of 20 Pound Fans

- Four Year Flashback: QPR Chairman Paladini Assures QPR Are Not Becoming a "Feeder Club" of Chelsea!

- Forty-Five Years Ago, QPR Win the First Leg of the League Cup Semi-Final at Birmingham!

- The End of Darlington Football Club?

When Saturday Comes (WSC) Anthony Hobbys - The more things change the more QPR remain strange
- Anthony Hobbs/When Saturday Comes

- On This Day: Mick Leach (RIP): Would Have Been Sixty-Five Today. RIP

- Two Years Ago: Mick Harford's First Game in Charge (After Paul Hart's Five games in charge!) QPR Plummet Downwards...41 Years ago: Gordon Jago's first Win as QPR (Caretaker) Manager

- Year Flashback: Warnock on Ledesma Trialing at QPR

- Two Years Ago: Paul Hart replaced by Mick Harford - after one month and five games in charge!

- Thirty-Eight Years ago! QPR Knock Chelsea out of the FA Cup in a Midweek Lunchtime Replay with Stan Bowles Winner. (Lunchtime, because no power during the "Three Day Week" of strikes/power cuts)

- "Where Are They Now...?" - News re Ex-QPRs Mike Flanagan...Joe Oaster...Simon Walton..David Kerslake

- A 2007 Interview with Mark Hughes: Why "Sparky"

- Antonio German Trialing at Scunthorpe

- Ex-QPR Youth Player Takes over as Preston Manager

- 11 Year Old QPR Trainee Gets Award/Funding Help

- Curle Applying for Bristol Rovers Job

- QPR Youth's Next Round Opponents will be known next week when Newcastle play Watford (January 19 at Newcastle)

QPR Report Tuesday - QPR's Last FA Cup Win: 11 Years Ago Today...Flashbacks: Briatore on Saving Club...Paladini: QPR Not Chelsea Feeder Club

2012-01-17T08:38:00.011Z

-
- Forty-Five Years Ago, QPR Win the First Leg of the League Cup Semi-Final at Birmingham!
-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- A week from Today: The Asian Football Awards: Nominees Include Tony Fernandes and Lakshmi Mittal

- MK Dons Previews

- The Current Bottom Six Premiership Clubs: Their Remaining Fixtures

- Latest QPR Player Signing Reports/Gossip

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

- Two Year Flashback: Chairman Briatore on all he's done for QPR; Saved the Club; Axed only One Manager; Views of 20 Pound Fans

- Four Year Flashback: QPR Chairman Paladini Assures QPR Are Not Becoming a "Feeder Club" of Chelsea!

- Forty-Five Years Ago, QPR Win the First Leg of the League Cup Semi-Final at Birmingham!

ELEVEN YEARS AGO TODAY: QPR's LAST WIN IN THE FA CUP!

Jan 17, 2001 FA Cup Replay QPR 2 (0) - 1 (1) (AET) Luton Kiwomya 90 Kiwomya 112 Mansell 1
At Loftus Road on 17-01-2001
QPR: Miklosko, Darlington, Baraclough, Plummer (Kiwomya, 35 ) , Carlisle, Perry, Rose, Connolly (Ngonge, 68 ) , Langley, Koejoe (Wardley, 90 ) , Crouch Subs not used: Harper,Morrow,
Luton: Ovendale, Fraser ( Stirling, 10 ) , Karlsen, Spring, McGowan, Whitbread, Nogan, Mansell, Holmes, Fotiadis ( Scarlett, 80 ) , Douglas ( Stein, 66 ) Subs not used: Abbey, George, Attendance: 14395 Match Report

- The End of Darlington Football Club?

When Saturday Comes (WSC) Anthony Hobbys - The more things change the more QPR remain strange

15 January ~ The recent histories of QPR and Newcastle United have thrown up a good few parallels – awash as they are with tales of the type of head-shaking nuttiness for which football is now famous. The recently released film The Four Year Plan is an excellent, if slightly frightening, fly-on-the-wall account of the lunacy that was QPR under the control of Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone. It really is utterly bonkers, but however much our fans might say "only at Rangers", I'm sure our Geordie friends could have gathered more than enough footage for a feature film of their own over the last few years.
At Rangers, the unaffectionately nicknamed Tango and Cash are mercifully long gone. Now we have a new populist owner in Tony Fernandes. He is in some ways the antithesis of the last lot. He's all over Twitter. He is engaging and open with fans. He has dropped ticket prices and is buying players we have no right to afford.

However, we saw last week that, underneath it all, Fernandes and co-owner Amit Bhatia are still no-nonsense businessmen. Neil Warnock may be hard to love at times, but many felt his departure was a little harsh on a man who had lifted the Championship trophy with a team that was far greater than the sum of its parts only a few months ago. It's a little bit like Chris Hughton's situation at Newcastle.

Nevertheless, some questionable tactics, inconsistent selections and – crucially – a poor run of recent results, were enough to have Fernandes sharpening his axe. It's tough on Warnock, but maybe not completely unexpected.

Amid the furore over Warnock's departure and the swift arrival of Mark Hughes, a more immediate problem has received less attention: Rangers have no midfield. The loss of Alejandro Faurlin for the season with a cruciate ligament injury was a big blow for Rangers. Almost without being noticed, Faurlin has been (at times) sensational this season. It reached the point where QPR fans were starting to hope he played badly against the top clubs in case one of them cottoned on and whisked him away. With Joey Barton suspended and Adel Taraabt and Armand Traore off at the African Cup of Nations, our already struggling squad suddenly looks decidedly threadbare.

Once again there are some similarities with Newcastle, who themselves are missing two key players on Cup of Nations duty: Demba Ba and Cheick Tioté. On top of that, Sammy Ameobi's season seems to have arrived at a premature end through injury. Newcastle have their own gaps to fill but, much as Rangers fans might hope for some of the "new manager effect", there is no escaping the feeling that this weekend we might be asking a bit too much of our hugely popular, but bus-pass-qualifying midfield stalwart Shaun Derry.

But who knows, really? Rangers are a club with gates of 17,000 that have been signing "proper" Premier League players on serious wages from big clubs. None of it really makes sense. If you believe the tabloids (and of course I do), then by the time you read this, Newcastle might have bought Andy Carroll back at a £25 million profit and Rangers may have bought players from the likes of Chelsea or Manchester City to bolster our squad. The owners and managers may change, but the whole thing is still nuts. - Anthony Hobbs/When Saturday Comes

DERRY APOLOGIZES

MAIL/Sami Mokbel

EXCLUSIVE: Derry apologises to Cabaye over tackle that forced him off on a stretcher

Shaun Derry has offered an apology to Yohan Cabaye for the tackle that saw the Newcastle playmaker carried off on Sunday.

The Queens Park Rangers midfielder caught Cabaye on the ankle in QPR’s 1-0 defeat at St James’ Park.

Sportsmail can reveal Derry spoke to Newcastle assistant manager John Carver in the tunnel at half time to offer an explanation, insisting he had no intention of hurting his opponent.

Carver, who worked with Derry at Leeds, is understood to have accepted the midfielder’s word.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew says Cabaye’s injury is not as bad as first feared and hopes he will be available for Saturday’s visit to Fulham.

QPR midfielder Joey Barton moved yesterday to end speculation he could become a casualty of Mark Hughes’s Loftus Road revolution.

Barton said on Twitter: ‘Mark Hughes and his backroom team are very good. The camp is buzzing and I am not leaving. We are all looking forward to the challenge ahead. Not going to be easy, it never is.’

QPR on Monday night held further talks with Chelsea over defender Alex.

Rangers have already had two bids rejected, the highest being £3.5million, but they are close to submitting another improved offer. Mail

MIRROR - QPR will not mug off Cup promises Hughes
Published 22:30 16/01/12 By Simon Bird

Mark Hughes wants the FA Cup to rejuvenate QPR's season and give his new regime lift-off.

The relegation-threatened Londoners face MK Dons in a replay on Tuesday, just 48 hours after losing at Newcastle in new manager Hughes' first game in charge.

The Welshman will make a limited number of changes for the home date against the League One promotion chasers, to take a look at his squad, but has not got a vast range of options.

"I've always felt a good cup run can rub off on your league form," said Hughes.

"If we can progress in the competition, it will help our confidence. The fact we are winning games in a cup competition will help us in the league.

"We'll have to make a few changes, but it won't be wholesale."

Hughes, who won the FA Cup four times as a player, three with Manchester United and one with Chelsea, added:

"I've always tried to pay the competition the respect it deserves [with my team selection], it's a competition that has been very good for me.

"We don't have any injuries from the Newcastle game. Touch wood. It's a quick turnaround with the cup game and maybe I'll take the opportunity to take a look at the players who haven't really been involved at the weekend.

"It gives me another opportunity to understand what I've got at the football club.

"The timing of it is unfortunate. It's not easy, the closeness of the two fixtures, because it does have an effect on players in terms of staying at the top of their game."

Rangers midfielder Jamie Mackie says the players can start to put some of the "buzz" Hughes has brought to the training pitch into practice against Dons.

Hughes has seen his new charges blowing hard during some intense and sharp sessions in the last week, and Mackie believes that will eventually pay dividends.

The 26-year-old, who was a Dons player at the time of their move from Wimbledon and renaming in 2004, said: "Regardless of the competition, we need wins and we need to get back to a winning mentality at this football club. That's something we haven't had at this football club this season.

"So the FA Cup is a great place to start. It's a chance to get a win and kick-start our season. I enjoyed going back to the Dons in the first game - but I'll enjoy it even more if we beat them.

"In previous games we looked a bit more open and likely to conceding goals. But against Newcastle we looked a lot more solid.

"We've only had three or four days working with the new boss and it's exciting. He's brought a buzz to the place. That always happens when a new manager comes in.

"But the lads are buying into training. The more time we have with him, the better we'll get. Hopefully we'll get a couple more players on board to help us out. If we can do that, we'll have a great chance of staying up.

"Especially with the fixtures coming up, we know we are capable of getting points on board."

***

Karl Robinson insists his MK Dons side will be all guns blazing at Loftus Road - against the club he supports.

Robinson goes to watch QPR when he can, but is looking for an upset in Tuesday's FA Cup third round replay.

"We'll have a go at them," said the Dons boss. "When we play, we leave nothing in the tank.

"I didn't have a great playing career, but I remember playing there in Kevin Gallen's testimonial.

"It's the London club I support, and I watch them every now and then, when I get the chance.

"I don't know why I like them, but I want to go down there and enjoy pitting our wits against a very good QPR team."

Robinson has also apologised to Carlisle fans after their League One clash was postponed at the weekend due to a frozen pitch.

It meant Dons players are fresh for QPR, when they will look for revenge after two controversial decisions in the 1-1 draw a week ago.

"They were two big decisions," said Robinson. "But we have to move on." Mirror

Teamtalk - Hughes: No major overhaul
Monday 16th January 2012 15:46

Hughes: Looking at gradual improvement

Mark Hughes said there was no need to make big changes on or off the field at QPR after watching their deficiencies exposed at first hand.

Hughes' first game in charge ended in defeat on Sunday when his new side lost 1-0 at Newcastle to end the weekend in the Premier League relegation zone.

It was a 10th match without a win for the London side and they cannot afford to make that 11 if they are to avoid crashing out of the FA Cup on Tuesday night.

Sunday's game highlighted the problems at both ends of the field that cost Neil Warnock his job and have seen QPR make bids for striker Andrew Johnson and defenders Alex and Christopher Samba.

They have also been linked with a host of other players but Hughes was prepared to be patient when it came to ins and outs during the January transfer window.

Hughes, who was without key quartet Joey Barton, Adel Taarabt, Armand Traore and Alejandro Faurlin, said: "There are areas we can improve, that's obvious. We were missing players.

"And as the games come thick and fast, we would hope to welcome back some players and, if we can, bring players into the club who will help us.

"But it's difficult in January, we understand that. It's important that if you do target players, they have to come in and make an impact.

"It's important that we improve our goals-for column because that is hindering us at the moment.

"But we can't just isolate one unit of the team, it has to be a collective thing and if we improve all areas of the team then that will enable us to get in those positions more often, and then maybe our average conversion rate won't hinder us as much as it is maybe at the moment.

"In terms of futures, we are looking to make Queens Park Rangers better - obviously, that's the aim of everybody - and we want as many of the players who are at the club now to be part of that."

With barely 48 hours between Sunday's game and Tuesday's FA Cup third-round replay against MK Dons, Hughes admitted he would be forced to make some changes - but not many.

"We will have to make a few changes, but it won't be as wholesale as possibly people would think because it's important that I still get to know what I have got," he said.

"We have got a quick turnaround, so very quickly we have to understand who will be available.

"I need to use players who maybe haven't had much of an influence.

"So that gives me another opportunity to understand what I have got at the football club.

"The timing of it is a little bit unfortunate because of the (possible tube) strike on the Wednesday - that's why it's on the Tuesday night.

"It's not easy because it does have an effect on players' ability to play at the top of their game because of the closeness of the two fixtures.

"But, from my point of view, in terms of cup competitions, I have always taken the view that a good cup run can help your league form anyway.

"If we can progress in the competition, the opportunity to progress further will help our confidence and the fact that we are winning games, maybe, in cup competitions will help us in the league.

"I have always felt in the past that it's helped people. TEAMTALK

- On This Day: Mick Leach (RIP): Would Have Been Sixty-Five Today. RIP

- Two Years Ago: Mick Harford's First Game in Charge (After Paul Hart's Five games in charge!) QPR Plummet Downwards...41 Years ago: Gordon Jago's first Win as QPR (Caretaker) Manager

- Year Flashback: Warnock on Ledesma Trialing at QPR

- Two Years Ago: Paul Hart replaced by Mick Harford - after one month and five games in charge!

- Thirty-Eight Years ago! QPR Knock Chelsea out of the FA Cup in a Midweek Lunchtime Replay with Stan Bowles Winner. (Lunchtime, because no power during the "Three Day Week" of strikes/power cuts)

- "Where Are They Now...?" - News re Ex-QPRs Mike Flanagan...Joe Oaster...Simon Walton..David Kerslake

- A 2007 Interview with Mark Hughes: Why "Sparky"

- Antonio German Trialing at Scunthorpe

- Ex-QPR Youth Player Takes over as Preston Manager

- 11 Year Old QPR Trainee Gets Award/Funding Help

- Curle Applying for Bristol Rovers Job

- QPR Youth's Next Round Opponents will be known next week when Newcastle play Watford (January 19 at Newcastle)

QPR Report Monday: Newcastle Reports...Flashback: Mick Leach (RIP)

2012-01-16T08:37:00.008Z

-

- -- On This Day: Mick Leach (RIP): Would Have Been Sixty-Five Today. RIP
-
- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- On This Day: Mick Leach (RIP): Would Have Been Sixty-Five Today. RIP

- Two Years Ago: Mick Harford's First Game in Charge (After Paul Hart's Five games in charge!) QPR Plummet Downwards...41 Years ago: Gordon Jago's first Win as QPR (Caretaker) Manager

As QPR Chairman Tony Fernandes Tweeted just prior to yesterday's game: "Just had a wonderful call from Neil Warnock to wish us luck today. Top man and great to have the call before a tough game."

- Photos from Newcastle vs QPR

- Year Flashback: Warnock on Ledesma Trialing at QPR

- Two Years Ago: Paul Hart replaced by Mick Harford - after one month and five games in charge!

- Thirty-Eight Years ago! QPR Knock Chelsea out of the FA Cup in a Midweek Lunchtime Replay with Stan Bowles Winner. (Lunchtime, because no power during the "Three Day Week" of strikes/power cuts)

- "Where Are They Now...?" - News re Ex-QPRs Mike Flanagan...Joe Oaster...Simon Walton..David Kerslake

- A 2007 Interview with Mark Hughes: Why "Sparky"

- Antonio German Trialing at Scunthorpe

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

- Ex-QPR Youth Player Takes over as Preston Manager

- 11 Year Old QPR Trainee Gets Award/Funding Help

- Curle Applying for Bristol Rovers Job

- QPR Youth's Next Round Opponents will be known next week when Newcastle play Watford (January 19 at Newcastle)

NEWCASTLE vs QPR

Telegraph/Luke Edwards

Queens Park Rangers new manager Mark Hughes needs a striker to save the club from relegation

Mark Hughes did not get the win he would have dreamed of to start his reign as Queens Park Rangers manager, but he saw enough to predict they would stay up this season.

Hughes felt Queens Park Rangers created enough chances to have returned to the capital with a draw, although his predecessor used to say the same thing about a team which lacks a consistent goalscorer.
In the end, having slipped into the bottom three this weekend, safety is all that matters to Hughes and the club’s owner, Tony Fernandes, who decided last week that Neil Warnock was not up to the task.
Hughes has a tough job on his hands, but the Welshman has seen enough in the 1-0 defeat by Newcastle United to believe he can make a success of the job.

“It was always going to be tough for us here with the opposition and the stage they play on, but I thought we acquitted ourselves well,” said Hughes. “I’ve been impressed with the players’ application all week and their willingness to take on board what I’ve been telling them.

“I thought we created enough chances and I’m pleased with the performance, if not the result. We’ve got a committed team and the way they approach the game and work hard for each other augers well. Overall I’m pleased with what I’ve seen and we can build on this.”

Hughes would not discuss any specific transfer plans, despite claims the club have agreed a £3 million fee with Chelsea for Brazilian centre-back Alex. But he highlighted the need for a striker after Jay Bothroyd wasted several decent openings.
“We’ve got players to come back into the side and we’re trying to bring players into the club,” said Hughes, who dismissed any suggestion he will sell Joey Barton this month. “It’s hard in January, but we have targeted players we think can make an impact.
“We need to improve our goals for column. We had some good opportunities and if we had a bit more guile we might have converted one.”

Newcastle’s win moved them above Liverpool and up into sixth and Alan Pardew is pleased with the way his squad has coped so far with the departure of Demba Ba and Cheick Tiote to the Africa Cup of Nations.
“It wasn’t a game that was particularly entertaining or enthralling,” admitted Newcastle’s manager. “But we were very professional in what we did. We didn’t start well and just did enough to get the win.
“You’ve got to remember a lot of the guys who have come into the side are the same ones who did terrific for us last season. Danny Guthrie has won the man of the match and Leon Best got himself a goal. That will give us confidence to go through the rest of the month without Demba and Cheick.
“We are above Liverpool because we deserve to be. This isn’t just about what has happened today, it’s about 21 matches. We’ve got a very important period while those two boys are away and if we can pick up a couple of wins, we’re going to get a hell of a boost when they return.”

Pardew surprisingly defended QPR midfielder Shaun Derry, even though Yohan Cabaye was carried off as a result of his studs-up tackle and was furious a red card was not shown.
The Frenchman does not appear to have suffered any lasting damage and Pardew praised referee Chris Foy, even though he also failed to see Ákos Buzsáky’s handball in the area.
He said: “It’s a strong challenge, but Shaun Derry is a player who makes strong challenges. I thought the referee was right on top of it and it was borderline red or yellow. I think he was right to only show him the yellow because he got the ball.” Telegraph

INDEPENDENT/Martin Hardy
Mark Hughes sees bright signs from his new charges

He lasted just three minutes before the confines of the dugout proved too constrictive. Just after half past one, Mark Hughes was back in football management and at 1.33pm, officially back in business. At that point it was with instructions to Luke Young about giving his new team more width. At that point, as for the first half hour, the new headmaster had a classroom sitting to full attention, players who had listened to what had effectively been a week of cramming. He barely left his technical area all afternoon.

By the end, however, Hughes was back in more familiar territory, brushing his right hand over his left in anger at the lack of tempo from his new players, and then lobbing a big insult at Chris Foy, the referee.

That relationship could have been far more fractious. Perhaps it all boils down to human nature; that after a week of vilification Foy really couldn't be bothered with any more grief.

Sending off Vincent Kompany during the Manchester FA Cup derby, a correct decision, placed him at the week's central talking-point. He could have been there again had he followed the same rules when Shaun Derry ended Yohan Cabaye's afternoon with a late, sliding challenge. It was excessive force, a player's safety was clearly in danger (Cabaye was carried from the field on a stretcher, hurling insults at Derry before throwing his gloves off in anger in the direction of the fourth official) and it was also a lunge.

This time Foy went for yellow, and perhaps in the lack of reaction afterwards (Alan Pardew: "It was probably a yellow"; Hughes: "I haven't watched it again") and the fortunate fact that Cabaye's damaged ankle was not expected to require a scan, the official may feel justified. We will worry about consistency on another day.

The challenge woke Newcastle from their lethargy, both on the field and in the stands. The loss of Cabaye was more than countered by the introduction of Hatem Ben Arfa. A spark went around St James' Park whenever Ben Arfa touched the ball as a consequence of the mesmeric strike that helped Newcastle into the fourth round of the FA Cup last week.

He was again inventive, dangerous and a spanner in the works of Hughes' hastily constructed machine. It was not coincidental that Rangers' early authority began to disappear with Ben Arfa's introduction. Before that, their pressure had produced a rising drive from Shaun Wright-Phillips that clipped the top of Tim Krul's bar and a swerving shot from Akos Buzsaky that the Newcastle goalkeeper did well to follow. Then Cabaye, who celebrated his 26th birthday on Saturday, was carried off and all Rangers' momentum went with him.

In the 37th minute, Newcastle conjured up an opening goal that seemed to embody what Pardew asks from his side – spirit, endeavour and honesty. Jonas Gutierrez produced a stirring run on the right, his ball to Shola Ameobi was held up well and laid off to Ryan Taylor, whose momentum slightly fortuitously took the ball into the path of Leon Best, on the left-hand side of the visitors' penalty area. From there Best cleverly cut inside Young before subtly placing the ball beyond Paddy Kenny's outstretched left arm.

There was justifiable delight shown by Best, whose work-rate is sometimes overlooked, the goal being his first in 10 starts. It also proved the one moment in which any player from either team produced the kind of devilment that Hughes wanted from his side.

"Maybe with more care and more devilment we could have converted some of the many chances we created," the new QPR chief said. "But I was pleased with what we produced. The attitude and the application from the players was good.

"Certainly, I could see things that we tried to implement this week, things that we've told them time and time again; you could see that they've taken that on board – not everything will stick. It shows me that they're willing workers and that they want to improve as players."

A lack of devilment certainly applied to Jay Bothroyd, who twice spurned good opportunities early in the second half. First he shot over the crossbar after a Heidar Helgusson knockdown and then, when there was more accuracy to his low, angled drive, Krul had the reflexes to deny him at the near post.

Newcastle were not over-blessed with opportunities themselves. They had a noisy penalty appeal when Buzsaky appeared to handle the ball and then, when Kenny went AWOL, the head of Danny Gabbidon denied Guttierez's long- range effort.

That could not deflate Pardew, for whom the loss of Demba Ba andCheick Tioté to the African Cup of Nations has yet to prove significant.

"We find ourselves sixth, above Liverpool, after 21 games, not because of what happened today – we're there because we deserve to be there and it's about the next period of games," he said. "They're very, very important to us because if we can get a couple of wins when two boys are away we're going to get a hell of a boost when they come back and then we'll see what we can do.

"There's money available to me and I think we'll take a player if we think one works for us, financially and for the team. We've got a really tight bunch here and we don't want to upset it."

Finding such togetherness is the first major task for Hughes – he stressed Joey Barton would not be sold – but his assertion that QPR will not go down has credibility.

Man of the match: Ben Arfa

Referee: C Foy (Merseyside)

Attendance 49,865 Independent

GUARDIAN/DANIEL TAYLOR
Leon Best nets to lift Newcastle and worsen QPR's plight

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Daniel Taylor at St James' Park
guardian.co.uk, Sunday 15 January 2012 10.49 EST
Article history

Newcastle United's Leon Best made light of the absence of his side's leading scorer Demba Ba with a fine goal against QPR. Photograph: Anna Gowthorpe/PA
For Mark Hughes this was the day it became clear why Queens Park Rangers have dropped below that little jagged line in the Premier League table and are living in fear of their toes being tagged for the relegation morgue. Their run of poor results now stretches to two points from a possible 27 and, apart from sporadic flashes, there was no real evidence here of what is seen so often when a new manager is hired and a malfunctioning team is suddenly invigorated.

A change of management can lift a football club but this was a bland and prosaic performance that Hughes will remember with little affection. After an encouraging start they looked rudderless by the end, losing to a wonderfully taken goal from Leon Best eight minutes before the break. Hughes has inherited a hard-working and willing group of players but there was rarely the sense that they had the wit or know-how to turn the game upside down and in the final stages, when a late rally might have been expected, probably the most disappointing part for Neil Warnock's successor was the way the game petered out so meekly. This was the moment when a team with confidence would have been pressing forward; instead it felt as though a white flag had been raised and that will go against all of Hughes's core values.

Hughes has been left with plenty to ponder and it is easy to understand why he is so eager to go into the transfer market before the end of January. This is a side urgently in need of new ideas, particularly when it comes to the attacking positions. A team that has managed 19 goals in 21 league fixtures must expect to be in peril and Jay Bothroyd looks noticeably short of confidence. Their most inviting chances both fell his way, early in the second half, and his shots were unconvincing in the extreme. "There are areas that we need to improve," the new manager said afterwards. "That's obvious."

He was not willing to elaborate and, as is the norm for a manager still in these getting-to-know-you stages, he did not want to appear critical of his players. Maybe this team will have more drive once Joey Barton returns from suspension. Even with their captain missing, however, it was strange to see them allow the game to fizzle out in such a tepid manner considering this was a Newcastle side missing not only Cheik Tioté and Demba Ba to the Africa Cup of Nations but also the creative influence of Yohan Cabaye inside the first half.

The Frenchman had been the subject of a late, scything tackle from Shaun Derry that, on the scale of card colours, was probably a deep shade of orange. Derry escaped with a booking for a challenge that meant Cabaye left the pitch on a stretcher – though the early diagnosis is that there is no serious injury – and at that point the temptation was to wonder how Newcastle might cope with the loss of so many key personnel.

Instead it was from here that Alan Pardew's team took command and subjected their opponents to the first spell of concerted pressure, culminating in the game's decisive moment. Best is not always the most graceful attacker but his first touch was exquisite, turning inside the full-back Luke Young and creating his shooting opportunity all in one movement. A diagonal shot was expertly placed beyond the goalkeeper Paddy Kenny and Newcastle celebrated a moment that will help to soothe their concerns about being without Ba, their leading scorer.

By that point Shaun Wright-Phillips had flicked the crossbar with a long-range shot and there were fleeting signs that Newcastle might be vulnerable. What happened after the goal, however, spoke of a QPR team developing all the signs of a losing habit. Hughes will reflect on the chances for Bothroyd – one turned over the crossbar with his weaker right foot, and the other comfortably saved by Tim Krul – but one of Newcastle's strengths this season has been their defensive unity and they dealt with their opponents quite comfortably during the last half-hour. This was their eighth clean sheet in the league, equalling their total from last season.

Hatem Ben Arfa was excellent after replacing Cabaye, running with the ball and demonstrating a spark and energy that was not always there elsewhere. Danny Guthrie worked tirelessly. Shola Ameobi was an awkward opponent alongside Best. Newcastle also had legitimate claims for a penalty after Akos Buzsaky jutted out his left arm to control the ball in the 63rd minute. The referee, Chris Foy, decided to give Buzsaky the benefit of the doubt and, from that point, the visitors should have shown more ambition to make the most of their good fortune.

At half-time the public announcer ushered in the teams by announcing the score was 3-0 to the visitors. It turned out he was looking at the yellow-card count. In truth, Hughes will reflect on his first day back in the old routine and realise that, in terms of a honeymoon period, his plane has not even left the runway. Guardian

West London Sport/Dave McIntyre - Defeat gives Hughes food for thought

Leon Best’s first-half goal condemned QPR to a losing start to Mark Hughes’ reign as manager.

Rangers had their chances – Jay Bothroyd missed two of their best – and were unlucky when Shaun Wright-Phillips hit the woodwork.

But their disjointed performance nevertheless highlighted the fact that Hughes has a sizeable task on his hands if he is to keep them in the Premier League.

Newcastle’s 37th-minute winner came when Rangers failed to clear their lines and the ball ran to Best, who tricked his way past Luke Young and coolly picked his spot.

QPR had been the more dangerous side and went close to going ahead when Wright-Phillips – still awaiting his first goal for the club – saw his right-footed volley from the edge of the area strike the top of the bar.

Akos Buzsaky, playing because of Alejandro Faurlin’s knee injury, tested Tim Krul with a swerving shot the Magpies keeper pushed away.

And Krul was given another anxious moment when Bothroyd’s effort flashed wide of the post.

Newcastle looked troubled, and their midfielder Yohan Cabaye was stretchered off after a challenge from Shaun Derry, but Best’s first goal since September swung the match in their favour.

Rangers battled on in the second half but their cause was not helped by Bothroyd’s failure to take two decent opportunities.

He fired over after Heidar Helguson had nodded down Buzsaky’s left-wing cross, and was then denied by Krul’s near-post save after being put through by Jamie Mackie’s clever pass" West London Sport

Dave McIntyre/West London Sport - Boss looks to future after QPR loss

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QPR boss Mark Hughes insisted he saw encouraging signs despite his team’s defeat against Newcastle - and vowed to steer them away from trouble.

Leon Best’s first-half goal meant Rangers made a losing start to Hughes’ reign, but the Welshman said he was happy with aspects of their display.

“I’m pleased with the performance but obviously not the result,” said Hughes.

“The attitude and application of the players was good. I could see things we’ve tried to implement and things we’ve told them.

“You can only put so much information into players, and as the weeks go on without a doubt we’ll be better.

“What you saw was a committed team. It was pleasing seeing the way the players worked hard for each other and were helping each other out there – that was something I noticed.

“There are areas we can improve though – that’s obvious – and we’re looking to make Queens Park Rangers better in the future.” West London Sport

QPR OFFICIAL SITE - HUGHES: PLEASING PERFORMANCE

Mark Hughes refused to be too downbeat, despite seeing his new QPR side succumb to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Newcastle United at The Sports Direct Arena.

Leon Best bagged the only goal of the game on Tyneside, on an afternoon when the R's deserved at least a share of the spoils following a positive performance.

"Today was always going to be difficult for us after such a short time with the squad, but I thought we acquitted ourselves very, very well," Hughes told www.qpr.co.uk.

"Change is a big thing in football and some players can cope better than others.

"All week I've been impressed with their application and their work-rate and I've again seen a lot of positives today.

"I thought we looked nice and assured in our play and the shape was very good.

"With a little bit more care of the ball, we could have converted some of the many chances we created.

"Overall I'm pleased with the performance, if not the result."

Hughes added: "As the weeks go on, without a doubt we'll get better.

"I think what you saw was a hugely committed team.

"They worked hard; looked after each other; and had a good understanding of what we wanted them to do.

"I think there are areas we can improve on - that's obvious.

"If we can bring players into the Club to help us we will do, but it's very difficult in January.

"We're in the market for good players and we're confident we'll be able to add to the squad." QPR

1 Man City 20 40 48
2 Man Utd 21 32 48
3 Tottenham 21 18 46
4 Chelsea 21 15 40
5 Arsenal 21 7 36
6 Newcastle 21 5 36
7 Liverpool 21 6 35
8 Stoke 21 -9 30
9 Norwich 21 -4 28
10 Swansea 21 -2 26
11 Everton 21 -4 25
12 Sunderland 21 3 24
13 Aston Villa 21 -4 24
14 Fulham 21 -6 23
15 West Brom 21 -10 22
16 Wolves 21 -14 18
17 Blackburn 21 -12 17
18 QPR 21 -17 17
19 Bolton 21 -21 16
20 Wigan 20 -23 15
BBC

QPR Report Sunday: TEAMS... QPR CEO Philip Beard on QPR Ambitions: "Multi-Use" New Stadium where "Main Tenants are QPR"...Mark Hughes and His Coaches

2012-01-15T00:01:00.018Z

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-- Next Newcastle: Stats/Past Results/Past Joint Players

Good Luck From Neil Warnock:
QPR Chairman Tony Fernandes Tweets "
Just had a wonderful call from Neil Warnock to wish us luck today. Top man and great to have the call before a tough game.

TODAY'S ANNOUNCED TEAMS

QPR - Kenny, Hill, Derry, Gabbidon, Bothroyd, Mackie, Buzsaky, Young, Helguson, Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand - Subs: Cerny, Orr, Hall, Campbell, Smith, Ephraim, Macheda
NEWCASTLE - Tim Krul; Danny Simpson, Mike Williamson, Fabricio Coloccini, Davide Santon; Ryan Taylor, Danny Guthrie, Yohan Cabaye, Jonas Gutierrez; Shola Ameobi, Leon Best Substitutes: Rob Elliot, Shane Ferguson, James Perch, Dan Gosling, Mehdi Abeid, Gabriel Obertan, Hatem Ben Arfa

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- For comprehensive and latest QPR news-related pieces and discussion, visit the football-only, somewhat-different QPR Report Messageboard. All QPR Perspectives genuinely welcomed! Or comment on any of the articles posted below - QPR REPORT Available on TWITTER!
_________________________________________________________________________________

- Year Flashback: Warnock on Ledesma Trialing at QPR

- Two Years Ago: Paul Hart replaced by Mick Harford - after one month and five games in charge!

- Thirty-Eight Years ago! QPR Knock Chelsea out of the FA Cup in a Midweek Lunchtime Replay with Stan Bowles Winner. (Lunchtime, because no power during the "Three Day Week" of strikes/power cuts)

- "Where Are They Now...?" - News re Ex-QPRs Mike Flanagan...Joe Oaster...Simon Walton

- A 2007 Interview with Mark Hughes: Why "Sparky"

- Antonio German Trialing at Scunthorpe

- Recent QPR Transfer Gossip: Player-by-Player

- Ex-QPR Youth Player Takes over as Preston Manager

- 11 Year Old QPR Trainee Gets Award/Funding Help

- Curle Applying for Bristol Rovers Job

- QPR Youth's Next Round Opponents will be known next week when Newcastle play Watford (January 19 at Newcastle)

QPR's Stadium Plans:

"...[QPR CEO Philip] Beard said that the plans to move to a new training ground within 12 months and to a new stadium within four years are vital to the club's development. "Staying at Loftus Road or the Harlington training ground is not going to get us where we want to go and I don't think it would have got us Mark Hughes either. We have owners who are ambitious but they are realistic as well. What we are trying to do is grow and develop the squad."
The proposed move to a new training ground is taking shape, he said. "We have identified a site and have plans in place. We are looking at two or three options for a new stadium and are now looking at options to fund it and making the numbers work.
"It won't be simply a football stadium. Our intention is to build a multi-use stadium where the main tenants are QPR. It will be great for the area and that's what the current climate needs." Guardian

Guardian/Jamie Jackson

Mark Hughes eyes the chance to become a 'great manager' at QPR
• Welshman excited ahead of first match in charge
• Chief executive sets sights on Premier League title

Mark Hughes takes charge of his first game as Queens Park Rangers manager at Newcastle United on Sunday with the Welshman stating he wants to become a "great manager". His ambition is matched by Philip Beard, the chief executive, who stated that winning the Premier League is the west London club's "ultimate goal", and that in Hughes QPR have made the first important step towards that aim.

Hughes saved Blackburn Rovers from relegation, then finished in seventh with them in 2008 before joining Manchester City and being sacked in December 2009 when they were sixth. Last season he left Fulham after finishing eighth.

Hughes said: "People view me now as a competent Premier League manager and at the end of my tenure here when ever that might be I would like to think they will think of me as a great Premier League manager."

The Welshman outlined how he will attempt to arrest a slide in which QPR have taken only one point from the last 24. "It's about the environment that I create that enable teams to prosper," he said. "In the past when I have [arrived at a club] players have maybe had to raise their game somewhat and perhaps that's the case here. I need to be organised and consistent. That's what players need – they need structure. My first year at Blackburn was probably the best we did and that will sustain us here."

Of the challenge posed by Newcastle, who are 10 places above QPR, he said: "They're playing very well at the moment and it won't be easy. It is a tough one to start with. But we haven't won enough home games. The stadium here creates a great atmosphere and there's no reason why we can't drive the season on from here. A little bit of confidence needs to be lifted to change things quickly and we're looking to create."

Asked if the owners –Tony Fernandes, the majority shareholder, and Lakshmi Mittal, the world's third richest man – have told Hughes winning the title is an ambition, he said: "Not in those terms. If we're all still here in the next five, six, 10 years, then we can have that conversation. You have to have ambition."

Beard, however, set out the club's ambition clearly. "Winning the championship has to be the ultimate goal," he said. "I joined QPR because of what Tony Fernandes and the Mittal family are trying to do here and, if I can help by building a new training ground and building a new stadium, [that would be great]. But what you have to get right is what happens on the pitch and over the last few days we have brought in a man with a team behind him who can help develop the club and certainly get us to stay in the Premier League this season and then grow.

"It's crazy to speculate how long it will take to get to the stage where we are competing for the title and Champions League places but, if you don't have those goals, there's not much point in doing this."

Beard said that the plans to move to a new training ground within 12 months and to a new stadium within four years are vital to the club's development. "Staying at Loftus Road or the Harlington training ground is not going to get us where we want to go and I don't think it would have got us Mark Hughes either. We have owners who are ambitious but they are realistic as well. What we are trying to do is grow and develop the squad."

The proposed move to a new training ground is taking shape, he said. "We have identified a site and have plans in place. We are looking at two or three options for a new stadium and are now looking at options to fund it and making the numbers work.

"It won't be simply a football stadium. Our intention is to build a multi-use stadium where the main tenants are QPR. It will be great for the area and that's what the current climate needs." Guardian

INDEPENDENT/Steve Tongue - High hopes for Hoops as Beard faces future

The man who saved the O2 now plans to make west London's unfashionable club into a money-spinner with Mark Hughes at helm

For a man who helped transform the Millennium Dome from a supposed white elephant into one of Europe's foremost concert venues, turning Queens Park Rangers into a force in English football should be a doddle. Philip Beard does not put it quite like that, of course, for even as a comparative newcomer to the unpredictable world of football – having joined QPR as chief executive after Tony Fernandes's takeover in August – he appreciates that those who sit in the directors' box are at the mercy of what goes on inside the rectangle of white lines in front of them.

Unless board members are inclined, like a previous Rangers owner, to send messages to the touchline demanding substitutions or tactical changes, all they can do is hire and fire the right people, and provide the financial backing and best possible working conditions.

To that end, Fernandes and his team deemed it necessary a week ago to dispense with the services of Neil Warnock, who had achieved the Premier League status that made the club such an attractive acquisition in the first place, and install Mark Hughes, a man considered to have a better chance of maintaining and building on it.

The building will be literal as well as metaphorical, involving a new training ground plus academy and, as this newspaper revealed when Fernandes arrived, a new stadium. "I don't think it would have got us Mark Hughes as manager," Beard says, "if the plan we'd laid out to him was that for the next 10 years he'd be training at Harlington or playing his team at Loftus Road."

The current training ground, under the Heathrow flight path, is the ramshackle place used by Chelsea when Hughes joined them as a player more than 15 years ago, when London University students would arrive after lunch to reclaim the dressing-rooms.

Rangers have identified a site for a replacement, which will prove easier to construct and finance than a new Loftus Road. The key to both, Beard says, is what businessmen apparently call "sweating the asset", or as he puts it: "Our plan is to build a multi-use stadium where the main tenant is Queens Park Rangers but we'll look to monetise other aspects of the stadium because that's what the current climate needs for investors to become part of the project. It's about funding it, making the numbers work. But this area is fantastic, the catchment area is great, the transport links are great.

"Coming from the O2, if we can build a venue that will be more than the home of QPR – while that will be the main part – I think we can do things that will be exciting for the area. And if and when we build a new stadium we will need to grow the fanbase significantly, so my job off the pitch is to start thinking about how we grow the brand that is QPR not just domestically but internationally."

The new regime clearly cannot be faulted for lack of either ambition or cash. As well as Fernandes, the owner of AirAsia and the Team Lotus/Caterham Formula One team, they are backed by the Mittals, whose pater familias Lakshmi is the world's fifth or sixth richest man, depending on who is doing the sums.

Yet the need to "grow the fanbase" acknowledges that Rangers have never been regarded as a big club in their 126-year history. The longest period they have ever enjoyed in the top flight was from 1983 to 1996; last season's average attendance in a Championship-winning season was under 16,000; and 25 years ago there were plans to merge with neighbouring Fulham.

Fulham, where to Hughes's frustration last summer a rich owner decided to put a cap on spending, are one of the clubs Beard mentions as a benchmark to aim at in terms of having got into the Premier League and stayed there. Stoke are another, though a few seasons ago he might have named Charlton or Southampton.

Clearly a man with a plan, he lays out the following path for the short, medium and long term: "We want to stay in the Premier League and stabilise in the short term. The short to medium term [aim] is to build a new training ground and encourage and attract players to come. The medium to long is to build a new stadium. It's crazy to speculate on how long it would take to get to the stage where you're competing for a Champions League place or the title, but if you don't have those dreams and goals, there's not much point in doing this."

Hasten slowly may be a sensible policy, or as Hughes put it, "don't run before you can walk". Beard, having helped secure the Olympics for London and built a future for the doomed Dome, prefers the line with which he signs off his programme notes: "Dare to dream."

Newcastle United v Queens Park Rangers is on Sky Sports 1 today, kick-off 1.30pm
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/high-hopes-for-hoops-as-beard-faces-future-6289888.html

The Star/Tony Stenson - MARK'S & SPENDERS

MARK HUGHES is the man with the Midas touch.

Not many hit the jackpot twice but Queens Park Rangers’ new manager will soon be wallowing in wonga again.

After spending a whopping £216million during 18 months as City boss, it is music to Hughes’ ears to have been told by the Hoops’ equally wealthy new owners ‘to spend as much as it needs’ to take the club to a new level.

Vice-chairman Amit Bhatia, son-in-law of co-owner Lakshmi Mittal, third-richest man in the football, said: “We believe in the long-term future of this club. The potential here is unlimited and we’re pushing for exciting days.

“The club has enough money – as much as it needs. We want players for the future but if we want household names we will do it. We have a well thought-out plan. We are prepared.”

His views were echoed by chief executive Philip Beard who told the Daily Star Sunday: “I joined QPR because of what Tony Fernandes and the Mittal family are trying to do here.

“And if I can help by building a new training ground and building a new stadium then all to the good.

“But what you have to get right is what happens on the pitch and over the last few days we have brought in a man with a team behind him who can help develop the club and certainly get us to stay in the Premier League this season and then grow.

“It’s crazy to speculate how long it will take to get to the stage where we are competing for the title and Champions League places.

“But if you don’t have those goals there’s not much point in doing this. We want to stay in the Premier League and we want to provide facilities that will also attract top-quality players. Loftus Road only has a capacity of 16,000, so any money must come from the board or owners.

And Beard added: “We have owners who are ambitious but they are realistic as well. What we are trying to do is grow and develop the squad.

“It is going to be very difficult to make major changes in January but if we can bring one or two players in then we will do that.

“And going forward we will look at who Mark wants to bring in. We will look at it again in August.”

And with a nod to the disciplined structure behind the club’s boardroom doors, Beard said: “It isn’t just one person who will make this work.

“It is Tony Fernandes and his partners and Amit Bhatia and the Mittal family.

“My job is to make sure we all work together so we get relationships right. I wouldn’t have come here if I didn’t think the aspirations of the owners weren’t strong for the long term. They see projects through.

“Very rich people are successful in making money, investing it and holding on to it. But we want to make sure that they can invest here for all the right reasons.”

Hughes, fully aware he is the club’s 13th manager in the last six years, admits it does help being backed by the world’s third-richest man.

He said: “Yeah. It gives us the opportunity. You would hope that if we keep building steadily rather than running before we can walk it gives us a real opportunity to do it in a considered and proper way.

“I have not been told by the backers, ‘We want the title’, not in those terms, no. If we’re all still here in the next five, six, ten years then we can have that conversation – but not at this stage.

“You have to have ambition. It will be a long road and there will be a few bumps along the way but we are prepared for that. It is really exciting and we have just got to see it through.” The Star

THE OBSERVER/DANIEL TAYLOR
Mark Hughes is back on track after big-desk hubris at Craven Cottage
The former Fulham manager adjusts his ambitions as he takes charge of Premier League strugglers Queens Park Rangers

The first thing Mark Hughes did when he became manager of Fulham was to ask for a bigger desk. Hughes wasn't happy with his new surroundings. The office, he said, was too small. A new computer was ordered and a big leather chair. Then builders were brought in to knock down the adjoining wall and extend an office that had done just fine for Roy Hodgson, Lawrie Sanchez, Chris Coleman and everyone before.

This is what can happen when a man spends time among the conifers and greenery of Manchester City's training ground then downgrades to a club where the paint might be peeling in a few corners and they drink their tea from a flask rather than fine china. Hughes never really felt Fulham were distinguished enough for him and it always seemed a temporary measure given that he has an adviser, Kia Joorabchian, with an A to Z of chief executives on speed-dial.

Except they stopped returning his calls. Joorabchian said his client wanted to manage a club more in keeping with his playing career at Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Chelsea. "He really wants to be right up there, competing for titles and the Champions League positions." Instead, Hughes has spent six months out of the game before rolling up at Queens Park Rangers, third from bottom of the Premier League, with a stadium that holds fewer than Notts County's, Port Vale's or Bradford City's.

QPR matter these days. This is an ambitious time at Loftus Road and they deserve better than to be patronised, but there are still 49 larger club grounds in England and, however much it is dressed up, it is going to be difficult to see Hughes on the touchline for his first match and not believe this is a man whose ambitions have been undermined by his own mistakes. Hughes was talked about as a credible successor to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United at one stage, but his name has been rubbed off the betting-shop chalkboards now, probably for good.

This is not to denigrate a man who took Fulham to eighth place in the Premier League, brought calm and pride where there is now fear and loathing at Blackburn Rovers and was doing a steady job at Manchester City before his very public sacking. Garry Cook, the former Nike man and now deposed City chief executive, had described Hughes as football's equivalent of Michael Jordan, but had been making clandestine approaches to other managers for six months. So Hughes is probably entitled to his grievance. Yet what has happened since then would make it difficult for anybody to argue the decision-makers in Abu Dhabi got it wrong, even if there were better ways of going about it.

At Fulham, Hughes was so obsessed with presentation and order that the kit men had to line up the ice buckets with perfect symmetry and make sure all of the drinks bottles had their labels showing at the correct angle. At City, he made the security guy take down the Ricky Hatton posters in his cabin because he thought it gave the wrong impression.

Yet this level of detail has not always been so apparent. Hughes turned a blind eye when Robinho turned up for trips abroad in jeans and trainers when he should have been wearing a club suit. Not the most important thing, perhaps, but sometimes it is the little details that demonstrate the differences between a manager who is good, and sometimes very good, but still a notch or two below what is needed for the highest level. Over lunch a few weeks back, Roberto Mancini, Hughes's replacement, smiled knowingly as he recalled the day he brought on Robinho as a substitute, then substituted him. The Italian never indulged Robinho in the way Hughes did, and was better for it.

The alliance with Joorabchian is another puzzling factor given that you would not automatically put the two men together. Hughes clearly believes the good outweighs the bad, but, put bluntly, Aston Villa did not want to do business with them when everyone assumed that was the next logical move last summer – and, in terms of perception and image, Joorabchian has become so synonymous with Carlos Tevez and controversy it does affect the Hughes brand.

Joorabchian is clearly a man with connections, but Tevez is now into his third month of striking at City, where they make no secret of the fact they think the player's adviser is partly to blame. Mancini's opinion of the Tevez-Joorabchian double act is not so much low as subterranean and recalls that episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm when Richard, stricken in hospital, discovers Larry and Jeff have been flipping a coin and playing eenie-meenie-miney-mo to try to get out of being his kidney donor.

The difference, of course, is that Larry admitted it was wrong. Tevez has never said sorry for anything and, so far, the only person in football who has been willing to defend him is the man, funnily enough, who shares Joorabchian as their go-to guy. Which is a shame because, when you get past all the fluff and politics, Hughes has earned the right to another go. The Observer

MIRROR/Gerry Cox - Hughes eyes neighbours Chelsea ahead of Rangers revolution

QPR believe Mark Hughes is the key to taking on their ‘noisy neighbours’ Chelsea and even overtaking Roman Abramovich’s side as the kings of west London.

Hughes takes his new side to Newcastle today for his first game since taking over from Neil Warnock last week.

And the Welshman can see similarities with the state Chelsea were in when he joined them as a striker from Manchester United in 1995.

Back then, before Abramovich arrived, the Blues were a mid-table side using the same ramshackle Imperial College training ground near Heathrow that Rangers use now.

They had not won a trophy for almost 25 years, had dipped in and out of the old second division and were in dire need of investment both on and off the pitch.

By the time Hughes left, Chelsea were on their way to an era of huge success, and, once Abramovich arrived three years later, the Blues went on to become one of the world’s wealthiest clubs.

Hughes said: “Yes, I can see the parallels. I wouldn’t say we’re trying to emulate that, but you must have ambition.”

But even Abramovich’s riches cannot match those of Lakshmi Mittal, Britain’s wealthiest man, and co-owner of QPR with Malaysian tycoon Tony Fernandes.

Hughes added: “If we do well and keep building steadily, I think there is a real opportunity here – and expectations are high.” Mirror

TELEGRAPH/Duncan White - Mark Hughes will need to make in immediate impac to keep QPR in the top flight
It is hardly the easiest venue for a comeback. Mark Hughes returns to football this afternoon with Queens Park Rangers facing the in-form Newcastle at the Sports Direct Arena.

Hughes will know a lot more about the scale of the job ahead of him by the time the game is over. There is going to be some hard work at Rangers’ Harlington training ground between now and the end of the season if they are to avoid slipping back into the Championship. Hughes is confident he is the man to help them avoid relegation.
“The way I like things done, the way my team’s play has helped me have an impact in the past,” Hughes said. “You have to be organised and consistent in your message and your discipline.
"It’s about creating an environment for a team to prosper. I think players want structure to understand what we are doing is geared towards winning.
“My values and standards are quite high. I find that when I have gone into places in the past people have need to raise their game somewhat. Maybe that’s the case here. The benefit of that is that you can make an immediate impact.”
How will he make that impact? Here we break down the areas in which Hughes will be seeking to make an impression at Loftus Road.

You do not just appoint Hughes as manager, you appoint his team, too. Mark Bowen is his closest confidant, a friend he has known since they were 13, and now his assistant.
Together they will plot a strategy for getting QPR up the table. In his approach to coaching, Hughes has obviously drawn a lot from Sir Alex Ferguson.
He takes the role of a supervisor, allowing his trusted coach, Eddie Niedzwiecki, to take most of the sessions. The whole management team meets every morning and plot what they need to do that day.
“To put it simply, Eddie is the best I have seen at taking a training session,” said Bowen. “Both Mark and I are Pro licensed coaches but Eddie is the one who implements our ideas.” Kevin Hitchcock looks after the goalkeepers.
The priority for Hughes at Rangers will be to get the players up to his standards in terms of fitness.
“At Blackburn we set ourselves the challenge of becoming the fittest team in the country and I think we achieved that,” Bowen said. Jason Roberts, who played for Hughes at Blackburn, thinks the QPR players will be feeling the benefit of that as they go into the run-in.
“Some of them might have never trained at such a high intensity,” said Roberts. “They make big demands of you. The good news is that within three or four weeks they will have never felt as fit.”

Tactics
In terms of formation, Hughes is relatively conservative. He tends to favour a 4-4-2, played with high intensity and pressing. Setting up this way can sometimes make it difficult to accommodate players who like to operate between the traditional lines – Adel Taraabt is the obvious example at QPR – but then for Hughes the emphasis is always on the team.
“So much of the tactics comes from Mark drawing on his well of experience and using his instincts,” Bowen said. “He then marries that with all the data we have assembled and prepares the players.”
This will be another challenge for Hughes at Harlington. At Fulham, City and Blackburn, he would use video footage put together with his data analysis department to show weaknesses in the opposition or areas that his own team could improve. In this he was very rigorous and impressed players with his command of the detail.
At QPR he needs to appoint an opposition scout and get the structure in place to do this.
A goal difference of minus 16 tells you that he has problems to resolve at both ends of the pitch.
Tightening the defence will be the first challenge but this is also a side scoring less than a goal a game — he will need to get the team playing with width as he did at Blackburn and Fulham to help generate chances.

Recruitment
This will be one of the most challenging areas for Hughes. There is effectively no scouting network at QPR and the squad is hugely bloated.
Until he gets scouts in he will have to rely on his own contacts and the help of his well-connected adviser Kia Joorabchian. While Tony Fernandes, the owner, has guaranteed there will be money available, what Hughes does in January will only be a short-term measure.
He wants to improve the defence and is looking to sign defenders Alex and Nedum Onuoha. In the summer, though, there will be as much emphasis on selling as buying: they have 36 players in the first team squad with a further four out on loan.
At Blackburn, Hughes established a reputation for refreshing the careers of players who had fallen into a trough, players like Benni McCarthy and Roque Santa Cruz, and also for finding bargains like Ryan Nelsen (free) and Chris Samba (£400,000).
At Manchester City he was given massive financial backing and while some of his signings worked out very well (Gareth Barry, Nigel de Jong, Vincent Kompany) there were some that clearly did not meet expectations (Jo, Santa Cruz, Wayne Bridge).
What recurs at every club he has managed is that players who buy into Hughes’s methods become loyal to him and want to work with him again. It would not be a surprise to see Hughes sign players who are familiar with his methods.

Man management
With Wales Hughes faced the challenge of changing from team-mate to manager but even in those formative years, John Hartson recalls him handling it calmly.
“He went from the back seat of the coach with myself, Chris Coleman, Gary Speed and Ryan Giggs, to the seat behind the driver,” Hartson said.
“You hardly noticed. He did it in his own inimitable way, without any real fuss. Still, you knew he was the boss. He had been a ferocious player, a man who would kick his granny to win a tackle.
"As a manager, he was every bit as determined, although quietly spoken, very thorough and quite calm much of the time. But if it needed saying, he would say it.”
Hughes has been criticised, even by himself, for his communication skills but these have improved as he has taken different jobs.
Roberts said that at Blackburn “dialogue with a player isn’t one of his main lookouts,” but with the more gregarious Bowen liaising between him and the players, Hughes can use the distance to his advantage.
At QPR, a club hardly short on egos, he will face specific challenges. He has an outspoken captain in Joey Barton, an erratic talent in Adel Taraabt and other recent signings whose salaries are wildly divergent from some of those who got the club promoted last season. He will need them all to pull in the same direction.

Innovation
It is in his curiosity about the cutting edge in coaching, management and sports science that Hughes is highly impressive.
“He mirrors Sir Alex in that respect,” said Bowen. “He is always open to new opinions, fresh ideas. He will read papers on the latest ideas and then source the best information on it.”
One example is how he introduced Morten Gamst Pedersen to neuro-linguistic programming to help him with his set-pieces.
NLP is apparently used by Jonny Wilkinson (in his kicking) and Tiger Woods and is a technique of repeated visualisation. Pedersen saw massive improvement in his accuracy because of it.
A new training ground will provide the facilities Hughes, needs but in the mean time QPR’s players can expect increased use of ProZone data, to have their training tracked by GPS devices (sewn into vests they wear under their shirts) and to be subject to diet and dehydration tests borrowed from Bayern Munich.
“You are getting feedback on your performance every day,” Roberts said.
Hughes must have been doing something right because United poached his leading sports scientist and ProZone analyst off him when he was in charge at Blackburn.
“It’s all about looking for that tiny edge over your opponent,” Bowen said. “Trying to improve a player by that one per cent.”

Telegraph

MIRROR

Joey Barton is set to be one of the first casualties in Mark Hughes’ QPR revolution.

Bad boy Joey, 29, is suspended and will miss today’s trip to Newcastle.

But highly placed Rangers sources believe Barton is unlikely to figure in Hughes’ long-term plans.

Hughes took over last week, following the sacking of Neil Warnock, and vowed to grab the chance to build a club of substance.

Warnock was the boss who recruited controversial Barton on a free transfer last August and made him Rangers’ captain.

Another high-profile star at risk is Shaun Wright-Phillips, who has failed to make any real impact since a summer move from Manchester City. Hughes accepts that he has a major rebuilding job at the club and is looking to off-load a number of players.

But, with only two weeks of the transfer window remaining, the time may not be right for sweeping changes at the club.

Hughes is targeting at least six new signings.

Rangers agreed a fee yesterday to sign centre-back Alex from Chelsea.

The Loftus Road hierarchy will now have to agree personal terms with the Brazilian defender.

Hughes is also hoping to recruit rising young Brazil star Henrique – work permit permitting – on an 18-month loan deal from Sao Paulo with an option to buy him for around £5million. Mirror

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