-
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Lee Cook
LEE Cook has warned that QPR will be facing a relegation scrap if they fail to pick up three points against Leicester this weekend...
."We have to start winning games because we're back in the dogfight now and that's not somewhere we want to be.
"Our home form hasn't been great - we've only picked up one point from Norwich and Derby at Loftus Road - and we need to sort it out quickly. If we don't, we could be in trouble.
"We've let in a lot of goals and you can't keep coming out needing to score three to win a game. We seem to get punished for sloppy mistakes and when other teams do it we don't punish them enough.
"We've got to be confident, think about the wins we had against Hull and Southampton and get back to playing that way."...
Cook has blossomed under Gregory and his predecessor, Gary Waddock, and the current Rangers boss admitted on Saturday that the 24-year-old winger might prove 'difficult to hang on to'.
"Everyone wants to do well and play at the highest level - and I want to do that with QPR," Cook declared.
"I think we've got the right manager to take us there - he's a Premiership manager and he brings that mentality to us.
"Over time we're going to be a very good team and one that's horrible to play against - teams are not going to want to come to Loftus Road."
Waddock, who did stay on as a coach during Gregory's first month in charge, finally left Loftus Road last week and Cook admitted his departure was probably inevitable.
"Waddo's a great coach, his training sessions were always high tempo and everyone felt they were getting something out of it. He'll move on and get another coaching job, I'm sure of that.
"It's a shame to see him go, but he'd been relegated from management and no-one really expected he'd still be at the club after a new manager came in.
"I don't think he felt right at the club after that. You could tell it was a bit difficult for him, but all the players understand that and we hope he does well
Kilburn Times
Welcome to QPR REPORT - A completely unofficial and unaffiliated fan site focusing on G-d's Chosen Team, Queen's Park Rangers (QPR) FC. (Visit also QPR Report Messageboard and Follow on Twitter.) QPR Report accepts no sponsorship, advertising or financial contributions. In 2008, QPR Report was named as one of the top two blogs in the Football League
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Ex-QPR Birthdays: Don Rogers & Steve Hodge
-
Two Great players who unfortunately by the time they joined QPR were no longer at their peak.
Don Rogers Turns 61: October 25, 1945
Goalscoring winger, Rogers had a brilliant career with Swindon, doing for them what Rodney Marsh did for QPR and helping them win the League Cup against Arsenal. For years he was one of the most sought-after players outside the First Division. Rogers then had a couple of years with Crystal Palace.
Rogers joined QPR in 1974 in an exchange deal in which Terry Venables + Ian Evans + cash went to Malcolm Allison's Crystal Palace. Gordon Jago's last signing before he left and was replaced by Dave Sexton. At the time Rogers seemed like a brilliant QPR signing and a replacement for Stan Bowles who was (again) on the transfer list. Unforunately it didn't work out. He played 18 games, scoring 5 goals in the 1974/75 season and played no games during QPR's 1975/76 Championship season. In March 1976, Rogers rejoined Swindon in a part exchange in which Peter Eastoe joined QPR.
Rogers
Steve Hodge Turns 44: October 25, 1962
Ex-England International, Hodge Joined QPR from Leeds for 300,000 pounds in 1994-1995 at aged 32. Signed by Gerry Francis shortly before he left and was replaced by Ray Wilkins. Played 15 games that season and that was it. Hodge joined Watford on a free transfer, the following season. Was linked to a QPR move at the beginning of his career while with Nottingham Forest. Hodge
Two Great players who unfortunately by the time they joined QPR were no longer at their peak.
Don Rogers Turns 61: October 25, 1945
Goalscoring winger, Rogers had a brilliant career with Swindon, doing for them what Rodney Marsh did for QPR and helping them win the League Cup against Arsenal. For years he was one of the most sought-after players outside the First Division. Rogers then had a couple of years with Crystal Palace.
Rogers joined QPR in 1974 in an exchange deal in which Terry Venables + Ian Evans + cash went to Malcolm Allison's Crystal Palace. Gordon Jago's last signing before he left and was replaced by Dave Sexton. At the time Rogers seemed like a brilliant QPR signing and a replacement for Stan Bowles who was (again) on the transfer list. Unforunately it didn't work out. He played 18 games, scoring 5 goals in the 1974/75 season and played no games during QPR's 1975/76 Championship season. In March 1976, Rogers rejoined Swindon in a part exchange in which Peter Eastoe joined QPR.
Rogers
Steve Hodge Turns 44: October 25, 1962
Ex-England International, Hodge Joined QPR from Leeds for 300,000 pounds in 1994-1995 at aged 32. Signed by Gerry Francis shortly before he left and was replaced by Ray Wilkins. Played 15 games that season and that was it. Hodge joined Watford on a free transfer, the following season. Was linked to a QPR move at the beginning of his career while with Nottingham Forest. Hodge
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Ex-QPR CEO Mark Devlin Discusses Developments at Swindon
-
Swindon Advertiser October 23 Mark Devlin - Paying the price
EXCLUSIVE: A “GUTTED” Mark Devlin believes County Ground boardroom politics have played a role in persuading Dennis Wise his managerial future lies elsewhere.
With Wise, agreeing a deal as Leeds United boss late last night, Devlin believes recent issues off the pitch almost definitely had an unsettling influence on the former England midfielder.
The Town chief-executive also revealed Wise and Poyet insisted a release clause was written into their contract in the summer, allowing them to talk to interested Premiership and Championship clubs.
The duo triggered the clause yesterday, after five weeks of speculation, and as talks concluded last night, Wise became Town’s shortest-ever serving manager.
Swindon had offered the pair improved terms to remain in Swindon but after a compensation fee was agreed late yesterday, somewhere in the region of a season’s salary, the Wise revolution has been brought to an abrupt end.
What started out as a dream new chapter at the County Ground, with the arrival of Poyet and Wise, has slowly turned into a nightmare as off-field problems cast shadows over the success on the pitch.
A boardroom rift has been followed by the departure of major investor Bill Power and major shareholders the Wills’ family threatening to pull the plug.
<strong>Speaking from his hospital bed after August’s plane crash Devlin, who earlier this month was given a vote of no-confidence from his fellow board members, admits the saga would not have helped in trying to secure Wise’s future.
He said: “I am sure it might have played a part in his decision. Only Dennis Wise himself will be able to tell you the real reasons though.
“I don’t suppose it helps though. All the problems behind the scenes may not affect the team but I am sure it affects the manager. It will be massively disappointing for us all because he has had such a massive impact on the club this season.”
Town fans are already questionning the decision to allow Wise and Poyet a release clause in their contracts but Devlin reveals it was a necessary evil.
He said: “They were both very keen to put that clause in, which don’t get me wrong was totally understandable on their part. From the club’s point of view it was a risk we had to take. There was no point in appointing someone we hoped would just achieve mediocrity.
“Obviously I think we all realised if they were succesful here they would eventually move on but we thought they would be around for a year or two at least.”
With friend and former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates at Elland Road, Wise has been a front-runner for the Elland Road job for the past five weeks.
A run of abysmal results have finally forced Bates’ hand and Devlin admits the possibility has always been at the back of everyone’s minds.
“He has a good working relationship with Ken Bates,” said Devlin. “It is something I think everyone was fearing.
“There was always a chance it was going to happen and now it looks like our worst fears are coming true.
“It is a great shame seeing him go. He has changed so many things here, in my opinion the team is now far more professional and he will leave a great legacy behind.
“Personally I have really enjoyed working with the two. They were very good to us when we were in hospital and I wish them both the best.
“You can’t blame them. Everyone has their ambitions and Leeds United are a massive club.”
With Town fans already speculating who could be Wise’s successor, Devlin admits he is not the man to talk to.
He said: “Obviously being in hospital I am out of it all at the moment. You will have to talk to someone else at the club.”
This is Swindon
Swindon Advertiser October 23 Mark Devlin - Paying the price
EXCLUSIVE: A “GUTTED” Mark Devlin believes County Ground boardroom politics have played a role in persuading Dennis Wise his managerial future lies elsewhere.
With Wise, agreeing a deal as Leeds United boss late last night, Devlin believes recent issues off the pitch almost definitely had an unsettling influence on the former England midfielder.
The Town chief-executive also revealed Wise and Poyet insisted a release clause was written into their contract in the summer, allowing them to talk to interested Premiership and Championship clubs.
The duo triggered the clause yesterday, after five weeks of speculation, and as talks concluded last night, Wise became Town’s shortest-ever serving manager.
Swindon had offered the pair improved terms to remain in Swindon but after a compensation fee was agreed late yesterday, somewhere in the region of a season’s salary, the Wise revolution has been brought to an abrupt end.
What started out as a dream new chapter at the County Ground, with the arrival of Poyet and Wise, has slowly turned into a nightmare as off-field problems cast shadows over the success on the pitch.
A boardroom rift has been followed by the departure of major investor Bill Power and major shareholders the Wills’ family threatening to pull the plug.
<strong>Speaking from his hospital bed after August’s plane crash Devlin, who earlier this month was given a vote of no-confidence from his fellow board members, admits the saga would not have helped in trying to secure Wise’s future.
He said: “I am sure it might have played a part in his decision. Only Dennis Wise himself will be able to tell you the real reasons though.
“I don’t suppose it helps though. All the problems behind the scenes may not affect the team but I am sure it affects the manager. It will be massively disappointing for us all because he has had such a massive impact on the club this season.”
Town fans are already questionning the decision to allow Wise and Poyet a release clause in their contracts but Devlin reveals it was a necessary evil.
He said: “They were both very keen to put that clause in, which don’t get me wrong was totally understandable on their part. From the club’s point of view it was a risk we had to take. There was no point in appointing someone we hoped would just achieve mediocrity.
“Obviously I think we all realised if they were succesful here they would eventually move on but we thought they would be around for a year or two at least.”
With friend and former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates at Elland Road, Wise has been a front-runner for the Elland Road job for the past five weeks.
A run of abysmal results have finally forced Bates’ hand and Devlin admits the possibility has always been at the back of everyone’s minds.
“He has a good working relationship with Ken Bates,” said Devlin. “It is something I think everyone was fearing.
“There was always a chance it was going to happen and now it looks like our worst fears are coming true.
“It is a great shame seeing him go. He has changed so many things here, in my opinion the team is now far more professional and he will leave a great legacy behind.
“Personally I have really enjoyed working with the two. They were very good to us when we were in hospital and I wish them both the best.
“You can’t blame them. Everyone has their ambitions and Leeds United are a massive club.”
With Town fans already speculating who could be Wise’s successor, Devlin admits he is not the man to talk to.
He said: “Obviously being in hospital I am out of it all at the moment. You will have to talk to someone else at the club.”
This is Swindon
QPR1st's Recent "Fundraising Discussion Document"
-
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
QPR1st's Recent "Fundraising Discussion Document"
-
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
Passing 250 Days of "Gardening Leave" for Tim Breaker
-
According to Ian Holloway last week, Tim Breaker his coach when at QPR, who (without explanation) had been placed on "Gardening Leave" along with Holloway and QPR's other coach Gary Penrice, had still not joined Plymouth. Holloway attributed this to remaining contract issues with QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini which he hoped would shortly be resolved.
Breaker
That makes more than 250 days; 37-38 weeks; approaching nine months - of presumably paid "Gardening Leave" for Tim Breaker. It was never actually explained why Breaker (or Penrice) had been placed on Gardening Leave, when Holloway was so placed.
QPR's Official Statement back in early February Announcing the Gardening Leave for the trio.
QPR's February "Gardening Leave" Statement
According to Ian Holloway last week, Tim Breaker his coach when at QPR, who (without explanation) had been placed on "Gardening Leave" along with Holloway and QPR's other coach Gary Penrice, had still not joined Plymouth. Holloway attributed this to remaining contract issues with QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini which he hoped would shortly be resolved.
Breaker
That makes more than 250 days; 37-38 weeks; approaching nine months - of presumably paid "Gardening Leave" for Tim Breaker. It was never actually explained why Breaker (or Penrice) had been placed on Gardening Leave, when Holloway was so placed.
QPR's Official Statement back in early February Announcing the Gardening Leave for the trio.
QPR's February "Gardening Leave" Statement
25 Years Ago Today: John Gregory Scored his 4th Goal in 5 Games
-
Twenty-Five Years, FULL BACK, John Gregory in his first season at QPR (The FA Cup Final Season) scored his 4th goal in five games in QPR's 2-0 win over Leicester at Loftus Road. (The other scorer was Simon Stainrod.) Also playing that day: Gary Waddock. 12,000 + were there to see the game.
QPR's Team that day:
Burridge
Fenwick Hazell Roeder Gregory
Gillard Francis Waddock Flanagan
Allen Stainrod
Sub: Burke
Twenty-Five Years, FULL BACK, John Gregory in his first season at QPR (The FA Cup Final Season) scored his 4th goal in five games in QPR's 2-0 win over Leicester at Loftus Road. (The other scorer was Simon Stainrod.) Also playing that day: Gary Waddock. 12,000 + were there to see the game.
QPR's Team that day:
Burridge
Fenwick Hazell Roeder Gregory
Gillard Francis Waddock Flanagan
Allen Stainrod
Sub: Burke
Ray Jones (& Loanee Mancienne) Back in the England U-19 Squad
-
The FA.Com England U19 v Switzerland
International U19 Friendly
7.30pm, 14 November 2006 Gresty Road, Crewe Alexandra FC
Brian Eastick has confirmed his 18-man squad to take on Switzerland on 14 November, with the core of the team remaining from their recent trip to Austria for the UEFA Preparatory Tournament.
Liverpool's FA Youth Cup winning trio of Paul Anderson and Craig Lindfield, who scored three goals between them against Austria, and Adam Hammill retain their places as does Derby County's Giles Barnes.
Queen's Park Rangers' forward Ray Jones also returns to the squad after missing the visit to Austria through injury and Eastick is keen to take another look at many of the players who accquited themselves well against Spain and Italy.
Eastick said: "The nucleus of the squad is pretty much the same as that which we took to Austria because the important thing we need to look at is continuity of our preparation.
"The draw for the UEFA European U19 Championship takes place next month and that is what these games are preparing the players for. We have made a minimal number of changes to the squad and I think that will help the players continue the progress.
"We have brought back Ray Jones of QPR who was in the squad earlier this season but unfortunately had to withdraw through injury. It’s important for us to have another look at him.
"James Vaughn is also worth a mention despite not being in this squad. He is recovering from a long term injury and I went to watch him at Morecambe last week in a reserve game. The view is that right now he needs a few more games - but he is one we are keeping an eye on.
"We are hoping to build on the work we have done in the past few months with the players and put on a strong performance against Switzerland."
Squad....
Ray Jones Queens Park Rangers 18 28.08.1988
.....Michael Mancienne Chelsea (on loan to QPR ) 18 08.01.1988....
FA
The FA.Com England U19 v Switzerland
International U19 Friendly
7.30pm, 14 November 2006 Gresty Road, Crewe Alexandra FC
Brian Eastick has confirmed his 18-man squad to take on Switzerland on 14 November, with the core of the team remaining from their recent trip to Austria for the UEFA Preparatory Tournament.
Liverpool's FA Youth Cup winning trio of Paul Anderson and Craig Lindfield, who scored three goals between them against Austria, and Adam Hammill retain their places as does Derby County's Giles Barnes.
Queen's Park Rangers' forward Ray Jones also returns to the squad after missing the visit to Austria through injury and Eastick is keen to take another look at many of the players who accquited themselves well against Spain and Italy.
Eastick said: "The nucleus of the squad is pretty much the same as that which we took to Austria because the important thing we need to look at is continuity of our preparation.
"The draw for the UEFA European U19 Championship takes place next month and that is what these games are preparing the players for. We have made a minimal number of changes to the squad and I think that will help the players continue the progress.
"We have brought back Ray Jones of QPR who was in the squad earlier this season but unfortunately had to withdraw through injury. It’s important for us to have another look at him.
"James Vaughn is also worth a mention despite not being in this squad. He is recovering from a long term injury and I went to watch him at Morecambe last week in a reserve game. The view is that right now he needs a few more games - but he is one we are keeping an eye on.
"We are hoping to build on the work we have done in the past few months with the players and put on a strong performance against Switzerland."
Squad....
Ray Jones Queens Park Rangers 18 28.08.1988
.....Michael Mancienne Chelsea (on loan to QPR ) 18 08.01.1988....
FA
1,000 Days Since Almost Taking over at Port Vale
-
If things had turned out just a little differently, Gianni Paladini would have just celebrated his 1,000 days since his takeover of Port Vale. Before Paladini turned his interest towards Queens Park Rangers, he first sought to invest in Port Vale.
Paladini's return to Port Vale last month in the Carling Cup (which saw Port Vale win and Gary Waddock lose his job) was his first visit since his effort to take over failed.
As reported by the Stoke Sentinel after the Port Vale victory over QPR:
STOKE SENTINEL September 20, 2006:- VALIANTS' REVENGE
Port Vale manager Martin Foyle dedicated his side's thrilling Carling Cup victory over Gianni Paladini's QPR to chairman Bill Bratt. Bratt and his QPR counterpart sat apart in the directors' box for the game, which was the Italian's first return to Vale since he fell out with Bratt during a failed takeover bid three years ago. But Bratt finished the game much the happier of the two men as Vale came from behind to claim a 3-2 win and a place in Saturday's third-round draw thanks to goals from Jeff Smith, Danny Whitaker and Richard Walker.
Paladini's return brought back memories of the power struggle which split fans and led to some supporters launching a hate campaign against Bratt.
Foyle hopes victory over Paladini's side will ease some bitter memories for Bratt.
He also believes the club is better off having turned away Paladini in favour of a rival offer from Vale fans Stan Meigh and Peter Jackson.
Foyle said: "People don't realise what the chairman went through for that seven months. It was cruel and it was personal.
"That is a little present for him because I think he might have been as proud as punch.
"Football is a cruel game and it can get personal, whether it is players, managers or whoever.
"The chairman took it to heart at the time, but it turned out he was right."
Foyle, who said his side weren't at their best despite victory over a Championship outfit, now hopes to pull out a Premiership giant in Saturday's draw.
He added: "It would be nice, and I think the supporters deserve that because they have stuck with us through thick and thin and we haven't had too much to shout about recently.
"But I'm not going to get too carried away until I see the draw."
Sentinel
Stoke Sentinel - September 20, 2006
VALE OFFER NO COMFORT TO PALADINI
Some of us have to stay at home to be ignored, though QPR chairman Gianni Paladini was probably grateful to be left alone with his thoughts after his return to Vale Park ended in an emphatic Carling Cup defeat.....
Vale chairman Bill Bratt resisted the urge to stick three fingers up to Paladini, a man he has had no time for since the two fell out over the Italian's failed takeover bid three years ago.
Vice chairman Peter Jackson revealed he did break the ice with a chat with his former rival.
He prefered to keep its contents behind the boardroom door, though it's quite possible the two men were wondering which of their clubs is the more likely to be playing in the Championship next season.....
The Sentinel
HOW IT WAS BEING REPORTED "BACK THEN"
BBC Stoke - December 2003
An Italian is just the job for vale
Valiant 2001 - the consortium which currently runs Vale
Port Vale's board have unanimously agreed to go ahead with a takeover deal involving Italian football agent, Gianni Paladini.
There's been yet another development in the long-running story of the proposed takeover at Port Vale with the announcement that an Italian football agent has agreed to buy the club.
Gianni Paladini has managed the careers of Fabrizio Ravanelli, Benito Carbone and Brazilians Emerson and Juninho.
The football agent used to play for Italian giants Juventus and Napoli, and also the national team.
His interest in the club stems from his son Stephen, who is a Port Vale supporter and is fronting most of the money in the proposed deal to buy a controlling interest in the Second Division club.
Paladini has yet to complete the takeover, but his bid has been accepted by the club's Board of Directors.
The Italian's offer comes in the wake of the withdrawal of supporter Peter Jackson's bid, who backed out after being identified by a local newspaper.
Paladini says he intends to strengthen the team significantly, but must first prove to the Football League that he has the finances to take the club forward, as only then will their transfer embargo be lifted.
BBC
BBC - December 30, 2003
Consortium saves Port Vale
Port Vale's immediate future has been secured following a major investment from a consortium led by Peter Jackson.
The consortium will purchase 30,000 shares at £5 a share to provide the club with an immediate injection of £150,000 to stabilise finances.
Jackson, a life-long Valiants fan, had to overcome a rival bid for Vale from Italian football agent Gianni Paladini.
"The investment ensures the future of the club is safe," chairman Bill Bratt told BBC Radio Stoke.
Consortium leader Peter Jackson
He added: "I believe the best decision has been made for the club and its supporters.
"We now have a solid foundation on which to build for the future and achieve our aim in progressing Port Vale both on and off the field."
The consortium - which will have a minority shareholding - will also take up an option to buy the remaining shares and have two seats on the board.
Jackson said: "We believe the club has great potential and we are confident we can introduce the right business management to enable the club to realise that potential."
The club is currently the subject of a Football League transfer embargo because of its financial difficulties.
BBC
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 30, 2003
Anger From Paladini After Increased Bid
Gianni Paladini has accused the Port Vale board of being "unprofessional" in their handling of negotiations to sell the club. Speaking minutes after learning his bid had been rejected, the Italian football agent said he was close to tears, having arrived at Vale Park yesterday morning believing he was set to finalise a deal.He said he was shocked by the last-minute arrival of successful bidder Peter Jackson and was so desperate to take control of the club he upped his offer during six hours of talks, although he refused to discuss the terms he put to the board.
Mr Paladini started the day as the firm favourite to become the club's new owner after tabling a £530,000 bid for 53 per cent of Vale's shares, with a £150,000 loan offered as an immediate payment to solve the pressing financial crisis.He said: "I feel very let down and emotional. Why did I come here to sign a contract to find they (the board) had someone else there? "We didn't expect another offer. It's very unprofessional."I'm very disappointed and I feel like crying. We put in a bid, we increased the bid."At one point we thought we had done the deal and I'm just in shock that they've accepted the other offer."I have had people come all the way from London and Manchester because we all wanted to do a deal."I don't understand why the board has made this decision and I'm baffled by it. I'm very disillusioned."
At one point I was prepared to take the club the way it is without making any checks, I was that committed to it, but I was advised against that by my solicitors." Mr Paladini insisted he will remain a Port Vale fan and will be there should the club need him in the future.And he said he hopes Stone-based businessman Mr Jackson will match his ambitious plans for the club and bring success back to Vale Park.He said: "I had players in mind to bring over - international players. I was thinking big-time for Port Vale and I hope the people who come in now have better ideas."I'm still available for Port Vale and I will still follow the club. If I can do anything for the club I will. If they need me in future I'm ready."
Mr Paladini declined to identify the big-name players, although national press had strongly linked former Italian international striker Fabrizio Ravanelli with the club.
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 27, 2003
Paladini Has Grand Plans For A Bright Vale Future:
Prospective Port Vale owner Gianni Paladini has announced ambitious plans to lift the club up the Football League ladder. The Italian football agent - who witnessed Vale's thrilling 3-2 win at Sheffield Wednesday yesterday - revealed his plans included signing a former international and finishing the Lorne Street Stand.
Paladini, who is waiting for acceptance of his offer from the board meeting on Monday, would initially purchase £150,000 worth of shares to take the club out of immediate financial trouble. He would then get an option to purchase the remaining £380,000 worth of shares to gain a controlling interest in Port Vale.He said: "I am fully committed to Port Vale now."This is not something that has happened overnight. Everybody thinks I am crazy, but only a crazy man invests money and doesn't take it seriously."For me to say we will be in the Premier League in two years is crazy, but if we are there, then why not? It depends what we do this year, if we get lucky and have a good run."Our first thing will be to finish off the stand because it is like a punch in the eye, the way it is now."We then want to start filling the stadium to capacity by bringing in exciting people and big names." Paladini is already hoping to bring a former international to Vale Park and suggested there may be more on the way.
He said: "I will have to speak of new players with the manager at first, but I don't think he will say no to the type of player I have in mind."I am hoping to bring a player to watch the first home game in the New Year. He won't be able to play because it will be too early. He played at international level until last year and he is the sort of player we need to bring to the club.Meanwhile, Vale director Charles Machin welcomed the Italian's influence and admitted he hoped a deal could be struck soon.Machin said: "I have drafted an agreement which I think is fair all round and Gianni is happy with that. If it is accepted by the club then, from Tuesday, we will be financially safe."I realise the fans will not have a controlling interest then, but they will have a very big minority interest at 46 per cent, along with four seats on the board. Hopefully it will be good news for the fans in the New Year."
See also Boardroom Blues
If things had turned out just a little differently, Gianni Paladini would have just celebrated his 1,000 days since his takeover of Port Vale. Before Paladini turned his interest towards Queens Park Rangers, he first sought to invest in Port Vale.
Paladini's return to Port Vale last month in the Carling Cup (which saw Port Vale win and Gary Waddock lose his job) was his first visit since his effort to take over failed.
As reported by the Stoke Sentinel after the Port Vale victory over QPR:
STOKE SENTINEL September 20, 2006:- VALIANTS' REVENGE
Port Vale manager Martin Foyle dedicated his side's thrilling Carling Cup victory over Gianni Paladini's QPR to chairman Bill Bratt. Bratt and his QPR counterpart sat apart in the directors' box for the game, which was the Italian's first return to Vale since he fell out with Bratt during a failed takeover bid three years ago. But Bratt finished the game much the happier of the two men as Vale came from behind to claim a 3-2 win and a place in Saturday's third-round draw thanks to goals from Jeff Smith, Danny Whitaker and Richard Walker.
Paladini's return brought back memories of the power struggle which split fans and led to some supporters launching a hate campaign against Bratt.
Foyle hopes victory over Paladini's side will ease some bitter memories for Bratt.
He also believes the club is better off having turned away Paladini in favour of a rival offer from Vale fans Stan Meigh and Peter Jackson.
Foyle said: "People don't realise what the chairman went through for that seven months. It was cruel and it was personal.
"That is a little present for him because I think he might have been as proud as punch.
"Football is a cruel game and it can get personal, whether it is players, managers or whoever.
"The chairman took it to heart at the time, but it turned out he was right."
Foyle, who said his side weren't at their best despite victory over a Championship outfit, now hopes to pull out a Premiership giant in Saturday's draw.
He added: "It would be nice, and I think the supporters deserve that because they have stuck with us through thick and thin and we haven't had too much to shout about recently.
"But I'm not going to get too carried away until I see the draw."
Sentinel
Stoke Sentinel - September 20, 2006
VALE OFFER NO COMFORT TO PALADINI
Some of us have to stay at home to be ignored, though QPR chairman Gianni Paladini was probably grateful to be left alone with his thoughts after his return to Vale Park ended in an emphatic Carling Cup defeat.....
Vale chairman Bill Bratt resisted the urge to stick three fingers up to Paladini, a man he has had no time for since the two fell out over the Italian's failed takeover bid three years ago.
Vice chairman Peter Jackson revealed he did break the ice with a chat with his former rival.
He prefered to keep its contents behind the boardroom door, though it's quite possible the two men were wondering which of their clubs is the more likely to be playing in the Championship next season.....
The Sentinel
HOW IT WAS BEING REPORTED "BACK THEN"
BBC Stoke - December 2003
An Italian is just the job for vale
Valiant 2001 - the consortium which currently runs Vale
Port Vale's board have unanimously agreed to go ahead with a takeover deal involving Italian football agent, Gianni Paladini.
There's been yet another development in the long-running story of the proposed takeover at Port Vale with the announcement that an Italian football agent has agreed to buy the club.
Gianni Paladini has managed the careers of Fabrizio Ravanelli, Benito Carbone and Brazilians Emerson and Juninho.
The football agent used to play for Italian giants Juventus and Napoli, and also the national team.
His interest in the club stems from his son Stephen, who is a Port Vale supporter and is fronting most of the money in the proposed deal to buy a controlling interest in the Second Division club.
Paladini has yet to complete the takeover, but his bid has been accepted by the club's Board of Directors.
The Italian's offer comes in the wake of the withdrawal of supporter Peter Jackson's bid, who backed out after being identified by a local newspaper.
Paladini says he intends to strengthen the team significantly, but must first prove to the Football League that he has the finances to take the club forward, as only then will their transfer embargo be lifted.
BBC
BBC - December 30, 2003
Consortium saves Port Vale
Port Vale's immediate future has been secured following a major investment from a consortium led by Peter Jackson.
The consortium will purchase 30,000 shares at £5 a share to provide the club with an immediate injection of £150,000 to stabilise finances.
Jackson, a life-long Valiants fan, had to overcome a rival bid for Vale from Italian football agent Gianni Paladini.
"The investment ensures the future of the club is safe," chairman Bill Bratt told BBC Radio Stoke.
Consortium leader Peter Jackson
He added: "I believe the best decision has been made for the club and its supporters.
"We now have a solid foundation on which to build for the future and achieve our aim in progressing Port Vale both on and off the field."
The consortium - which will have a minority shareholding - will also take up an option to buy the remaining shares and have two seats on the board.
Jackson said: "We believe the club has great potential and we are confident we can introduce the right business management to enable the club to realise that potential."
The club is currently the subject of a Football League transfer embargo because of its financial difficulties.
BBC
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 30, 2003
Anger From Paladini After Increased Bid
Gianni Paladini has accused the Port Vale board of being "unprofessional" in their handling of negotiations to sell the club. Speaking minutes after learning his bid had been rejected, the Italian football agent said he was close to tears, having arrived at Vale Park yesterday morning believing he was set to finalise a deal.He said he was shocked by the last-minute arrival of successful bidder Peter Jackson and was so desperate to take control of the club he upped his offer during six hours of talks, although he refused to discuss the terms he put to the board.
Mr Paladini started the day as the firm favourite to become the club's new owner after tabling a £530,000 bid for 53 per cent of Vale's shares, with a £150,000 loan offered as an immediate payment to solve the pressing financial crisis.He said: "I feel very let down and emotional. Why did I come here to sign a contract to find they (the board) had someone else there? "We didn't expect another offer. It's very unprofessional."I'm very disappointed and I feel like crying. We put in a bid, we increased the bid."At one point we thought we had done the deal and I'm just in shock that they've accepted the other offer."I have had people come all the way from London and Manchester because we all wanted to do a deal."I don't understand why the board has made this decision and I'm baffled by it. I'm very disillusioned."
At one point I was prepared to take the club the way it is without making any checks, I was that committed to it, but I was advised against that by my solicitors." Mr Paladini insisted he will remain a Port Vale fan and will be there should the club need him in the future.And he said he hopes Stone-based businessman Mr Jackson will match his ambitious plans for the club and bring success back to Vale Park.He said: "I had players in mind to bring over - international players. I was thinking big-time for Port Vale and I hope the people who come in now have better ideas."I'm still available for Port Vale and I will still follow the club. If I can do anything for the club I will. If they need me in future I'm ready."
Mr Paladini declined to identify the big-name players, although national press had strongly linked former Italian international striker Fabrizio Ravanelli with the club.
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 27, 2003
Paladini Has Grand Plans For A Bright Vale Future:
Prospective Port Vale owner Gianni Paladini has announced ambitious plans to lift the club up the Football League ladder. The Italian football agent - who witnessed Vale's thrilling 3-2 win at Sheffield Wednesday yesterday - revealed his plans included signing a former international and finishing the Lorne Street Stand.
Paladini, who is waiting for acceptance of his offer from the board meeting on Monday, would initially purchase £150,000 worth of shares to take the club out of immediate financial trouble. He would then get an option to purchase the remaining £380,000 worth of shares to gain a controlling interest in Port Vale.He said: "I am fully committed to Port Vale now."This is not something that has happened overnight. Everybody thinks I am crazy, but only a crazy man invests money and doesn't take it seriously."For me to say we will be in the Premier League in two years is crazy, but if we are there, then why not? It depends what we do this year, if we get lucky and have a good run."Our first thing will be to finish off the stand because it is like a punch in the eye, the way it is now."We then want to start filling the stadium to capacity by bringing in exciting people and big names." Paladini is already hoping to bring a former international to Vale Park and suggested there may be more on the way.
He said: "I will have to speak of new players with the manager at first, but I don't think he will say no to the type of player I have in mind."I am hoping to bring a player to watch the first home game in the New Year. He won't be able to play because it will be too early. He played at international level until last year and he is the sort of player we need to bring to the club.Meanwhile, Vale director Charles Machin welcomed the Italian's influence and admitted he hoped a deal could be struck soon.Machin said: "I have drafted an agreement which I think is fair all round and Gianni is happy with that. If it is accepted by the club then, from Tuesday, we will be financially safe."I realise the fans will not have a controlling interest then, but they will have a very big minority interest at 46 per cent, along with four seats on the board. Hopefully it will be good news for the fans in the New Year."
See also Boardroom Blues
Ex-QPR Mark Graham Turns 32
-
Mark Graham Turns 32. Born October 24, 1974.
Graham made his debut exactly a decade ago (September 1996), breaking into the team in the 1996-97 season, under Stuart Houston. He played 18 games that season. And that was it. His brother, Richard Graham was also on the cusp of the QPR team, but unfortuately didn't break through.
Graham
Mark Graham Turns 32. Born October 24, 1974.
Graham made his debut exactly a decade ago (September 1996), breaking into the team in the 1996-97 season, under Stuart Houston. He played 18 games that season. And that was it. His brother, Richard Graham was also on the cusp of the QPR team, but unfortuately didn't break through.
Graham
Monday, October 23, 2006
Trevor Challis & Mike Kelly Birthdays & 34 Years Since Dave Thomas Debuted for QPR
-
Trevor Challis - October 23, 1975
Made his debut in November 1975...Joined Bristol Rovers in August 1998
Mike Kelly Turned 64 Born October 18, 1942. Goalie, Mike Kelly Joined QPR in 1966 from non-league Wimbledon. Made his QPR debut in November 1966 (and was the backup to Peter Springett for the League Cup Final). Joined Birmingham in August 1970 (afer QPR signed Phil Parkes from Walsall)
Debuts: Dave Thomas - October 21, 1972 Midfielder/Winger Thomas was signed by Gordon Jago from Burnley in October 1972 after QPR's brilliant midfielder Martyn Busby broke his leg in a midweek game at Fulham. Thomas cost an English Second Division transfer record of 165,000 pounds. Made his debut at home to Sunderland in which QPR won 3-2.
Other Mid-October Debuts include:
Terry Mancini October 16, 1971
John O'Rourke - October 19, 1971
Peter Eastoe October 16, 1976
John Byrne October 27 1984
Michael Rutherford October 21 1989
Jan Stjskal October 20, 1990
Sieb Dykstra October 22 1994
Managers Coming to QPR in October
October 1974, Dave Sexton
October 1998, Gerry Francis returned to manage QPR again
Trevor Challis - October 23, 1975
Made his debut in November 1975...Joined Bristol Rovers in August 1998
Mike Kelly Turned 64 Born October 18, 1942. Goalie, Mike Kelly Joined QPR in 1966 from non-league Wimbledon. Made his QPR debut in November 1966 (and was the backup to Peter Springett for the League Cup Final). Joined Birmingham in August 1970 (afer QPR signed Phil Parkes from Walsall)
Debuts: Dave Thomas - October 21, 1972 Midfielder/Winger Thomas was signed by Gordon Jago from Burnley in October 1972 after QPR's brilliant midfielder Martyn Busby broke his leg in a midweek game at Fulham. Thomas cost an English Second Division transfer record of 165,000 pounds. Made his debut at home to Sunderland in which QPR won 3-2.
Other Mid-October Debuts include:
Terry Mancini October 16, 1971
John O'Rourke - October 19, 1971
Peter Eastoe October 16, 1976
John Byrne October 27 1984
Michael Rutherford October 21 1989
Jan Stjskal October 20, 1990
Sieb Dykstra October 22 1994
Managers Coming to QPR in October
October 1974, Dave Sexton
October 1998, Gerry Francis returned to manage QPR again
Sunday, October 22, 2006
QPR 19th: Sheffield Wednesday 3 QPR 2 - Reports & Comments
-
TABLE: BOTTOM 8 of the Championship
Sunderland 13 16
Stoke 13 15
QPR 13 13
Sheff Wed 13 13
Barnsley 13 12
Southend 13 10
Leeds 13 10
Hull 13 9
Leage Table
QPR Official Site - John Gregory's Comments IT'S A DOGFIGHT
John Gregory readily admitted the R's are in a 'relegation dogfight' after the 3-2 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
A Marcus Tudgay brace and a controversial Steve MacLean spot-kick gave the Owls maximum points, after Rangers had fought back from 2-0 down thanks to a Dexter Blackstock double.
"There's still a lot to be worked on and make no mistake, we're in a dogfight,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Thankfully some of the other results went for us today, but we need to return to winning ways - and quickly.''
Gregory was also keen to have his say on the controversial spot-kick, which led to the Owls winner.
"I thought it was a cast iron penalty from the touchline, but Jonah and the rest of the lads have assured me there was no contact,'' he said.
"Jonah told me he got a foot on the ball and their lad made the most of it.''
After conceding three more goals, Gregory is aware of the need to improve things in the defensive third.
"We were very nervy at times at the back. We've basically gifted them three goals by giving away possession in silly areas and you just can't afford to do that at this level.'' QPR Official Site
More Gregory Comment:
"...Rangers boss John Gregory was not convinced goalkeeper Paul Jones had touched the striker.
"Jonah said he didn't think it was a penalty," he said.
"He felt he got a foot on the ball and two or three of the defending players all said the same.
"But we gave the ball way in the middle of midfield and you can't do that against anybody.
"To lose the game in that manner was disappointing and we threw everything at them in the end - but we just couldn't that equaliser."
Gregory also accused Wednesday's players of failing to give 100% in previous games under Sturrock.
"I think they have been selling their previous manager short if they can put in that sort of performance today," he claimed.
"Paul Sturrock must sit there and feel a little bit aggrieved because those boys today gave everything for the cause.
"Marcus Tudgay, who I know from my time at Derby, was a real handful and took his two goals very well."
Sporting Life
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY MANAGER's PERSPECTIVE
McAuley: "Credit The Players"
Acting Wednesday manager Sean McAuley said the players should take all the credit for the Owls' 3-2 win over Queens Park Rangers following a difficult week at Hillsborough.
The hosts were pegged back from a 2-0 lead before winning the game through Steven MacLean's penalty and McAuley stressed that the three points should take precedence over everything else to do with the club.
The Sheffielder said: "We should focus on the performance of the players - they need to take all the credit. When somebody scores two against you in quick succession it can harm you. But they kept a belief in themselves and pushed on. It showed a lot of character and good mental strength."
McAuley said the way the Owls reacted to Dexter Blackstock's lightning brace was all the more impressive in the wake of their midweek thrashing at Colchester United: "We've got to remember what happened to the players on Wednesday night," he added.
Graham Coughlan missed out on the win with a hamstring injury and Deon Burton limped off with a calf strain, but not before he had played Marcus Tudgay in for his opening goal.
Tudgay went on to form a threatening partnership with MacLean, which pleased McAuley:
"Marcus went out and gave 100 per cent, and got his reward with the two goals," he said. "He formed a good relationship with Deon Burton and then Steven MacLean. That can only be good for the future for the club."
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Match Report
Dexter Blackstock's second half double counted for nothing, as a Steve MacLean spot-kick gave managerless Wednesday all three points.
Trailing 2-0 at the break, Blackstock had sparked hopes of a memorable Rangers comeback when he scored two goals in four second half minutes to put the R's on terms.
But his efforts ultimately proved in vein, when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent MacLean tumbling to ground inside the box on 67 minutes and the same player converted to seal the hosts' victory.
Rangers somehow found themselves trailing 2-0 at the break, despite dominating for long spells at Hillsborough. Marcus Tudgay capitalised on a rare misplaced pass from Jimmy Smith to break the deadlock on12 minutes, before adding a second on the stroke of half-time.
In truth, the R's could have been three goals to the good by the time Tudgay opened his account for the afternoon, with Dexter Blackstock twice testing Brad Jones and Lee Cook letting fly from fully 25-yards.
But having failed to take their chances, the R's paid the ultimate price on 45 minutes, whenTudgay headed home unmarked at the back post.
John Gregory named the same starting XI for the third match in succession, which meant Chelsea loanee Smith continued his flourishing partnership with skipper Marc Bircham in the heart of the R's midfield.
His Blues team-mate Michael Mancienne was again named amongst the substitutes, alongside Simon Royce, Matthew Rose, Nicky Ward and Kevin Gallen.
The Owls - under the guidance of Caretaker Manager Sean McAuley - included Deon Burton, who found the net in the 1-1 draw at Hillsborough last season.
Despite all the pre-match protests from the Wednesday fans, Rangers were by no means overawed by the hostile home crowd, creating a chance inside the opening 60 seconds.
Unsurprisingly, it was Cook who sparked them into life, smashing a fierce drive on target, which Middlesbrough loanee Brad Jones did well to tip away for a corner.
The R's were enjoying the lion's share of possession in the opening stages and when Cook's jinking run ended with a neat pass to Blackstock, the Rangers front-man forced Jones into a fine parry from 12-yards.
The same two players combined again on seven minutes, with Blackstock heading straight at Jones from another inch-perfect Cook delivery.
Yet despite Rangers' solid start, it was the Owls who took the lead on 12 minutes, with their first attack of the contest.
A rare misplaced pass from Smith fell perfectly into the path of Burton, who in turn slid a slide-rule pass through to Tudgay.
The Wednesday front-man made no mistake from 12-yards, holding off Zesh Rehman and finishing with aplomb into the left hand corner.
Undeterred, Rangers were soon back on the front foot, only for Martin Rowlands to get his angles all wrong, curling the ball high and wide from the edge of the box.
Damion Stewart was at full stretch to prevent Burton from heading into an empty net after fine wide play from Frank Simek on 26 minutes, before Marcus Bignot received a yellow card when he hacked down the advancing Wade Small.
And from the resultant free-kick, Smith joined him in the referee's notebook, for presumably failing to retreat the full 10-yards as Chris Brunt shaped up to let fly.
At the other end, Ray Jones' stinging drive from an acute angle brought out the best in his namesake Brad Jones, as the R's continued to create the better opportunities.
But it was Wednesday winger Small who spurned the next golden opportunity, slicing his far post strike into the Kop from little more than eight-yards.
As the half neared its conclusion, a trademark free-kick from Cook was easily gathered by Jones, while Brunt's speculative volley - albeit from a ridiculous angle -flew into Row Z!
R's skipper Bircham was forced from the fray on 44 minutes, with debutant Mancienne taking his place. Steve Lomas reverted to his more accomplished midfield role, but just seconds later Rangers conceded a second.
Tudgay arrived bang on cue to head home Brunt's cross and send the Wednesday fans into ecstasy.
Hope of a Rangers revival loomed large four minutes into the second half, when Blackstock met Cook's piercing centre and thrashed an unstoppable close range finish past Jones.
The R's attack only arose after a poor piece of defending involving the Owls keeper and skipper Madjid Bougherra, but the visitors duly took full advantage.
If Rangers fans were buoyed by that, they were in dreamland three minutes later, when Blackstock added his second.
Cook again played provider, floating an inch-perfect cross on to the head of the former Saints striker, who duly beat Jones from six-yards.
Gregory was forced into his second change on 66 minutes, as Rowlands made way for Nicky Ward.
Sixty seconds later, the R's conceded a penalty when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent Steve MacLean to ground inside the box, after Ward had conceded possession all too easily in the heart of the Rangers midfield.
The Rangers keeper was lucky to escape with just a booking, but there was to be no second reprieve, as MacLean picked himself up, brushed himself down and sent the Welsh custodian the wrong way from the spot.
Bougherra nearly made it four on 79 minutes, but thankfully for the R's, the outstanding Cook was in the right place at the right time, to clear the ball off the line.
Moments later MacLean should have doubled his tally for the afternoon - only to blast over with the goal gaping.
The introduction of Kevin Gallen on 85 minutes prompted a tactical reshuffle, yet despite the R's best efforts in four minutes of added time - when Cook twice tested Jones - it was not to be.
Sheffield Wednesday: Jones, Lunt, Tudgay (Talbot 90), Burton (MacLean 39), Brunt, Hills, Small, Simek, Bougherra, Folly, Spurr.
Subs: Adamson, Bullen, Whelan.
Scorers: Tudgay 12, Tudgay 45, MacLean 67
Bookings: Simek 52
QPR: P Jones, Lomas, Stewart, Rehman, Bignot (Gallen 85), Rowlands (Ward 66), Bircham (Mancienne 44), Smith, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Royce, Rose.
Scorers: Blackstock 49, Blackstock 53
Bookings: Bignot 28, Smith 29, P Jones 67, Lomas 86
Referee: Mr K Hill
Attendance: 23, 813
QPR Official Site
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY OFFICIAL SITE
A penalty from Steven MacLean earned the Owls their third win of the season, as they recovered from losing a two-goal lead to beat Queens Park Rangers.
Marcus Tudgay had scored a first-half double to put Wednesday in the driving seat but that advantage was cancelled out by Dexter Blackstock's brace after the interval.
However MacLean popped up to convert a 70th minute penalty after being fouled, giving the Owls a second successive home triumph.
Brad Jones had a save to make with just over a minute played, turning Lee Cook's drive over the top after a jinking run by the Rangers man. Another burst from Cook saw the Owls keeper dive to hold Blackstock's effort and the pair teamed up again with Jones stopping Blackstock's diving header.
But it was the Owls who broke the deadlock with the clock showing 13 minutes, as Tudgay ran onto a Deon Burton throughball and coolly steered his left-foot shot into the far corner of Paul Jones' net.
A timely interception from Damion Stewart denied Tudgay a shot at a second goal when the centre-back headed Wade Small's cross to safety as the Wednesday man lurked at the far post. And the Owls saw a double opportunity go begging as John Hills' cross evaded Kenny Lunt's lunge and Small sliced his shot off the side of his boot.
Brunt then fired Small's centre well over the top and a timely block from Blackstock halted Tudgay as he looked to turn onto Lunt's low drive. But the former Derby man had been sniffing another goal since his opener and it came in first half stoppage time, as he met Hills' deep cross with a downward back post header past Paul Jones.
However Wednesday's lead evaporated within eight minutes of the restart, as Blackstock converted two Cook crosses to bring the Londoners level. First he sidefooted home in the 50th minute before glancing a header into Brad Jones' far corner three minutes later.
A lull in scoring chances then transpired before Wednesday got back in front with 20 minutes to go. MacLean got in behind the R's defence and rounded Paul Jones before the veteran stopped tripped him. The Scotsman stepped up to plant his kick into the left-hand corner of the keeper's net, sending him the wrong way.
Small fired over from MacLean's lay-off and Madjid Bougherra - captaining the side in Graham Coughlan's absence - had a headed nodded off the line by Cook as the Owls looked for a fourth.
MacLean then looped the ball over the top after Small failed to connect cleanly with Frank Simek's cross. The visitors had a chance when Cook drove across goal in injury time and the winger also tested Paul Jones from distance but the Owls held for the points.
Sheffield Wednesday
TABLE: BOTTOM 8 of the Championship
Sunderland 13 16
Stoke 13 15
QPR 13 13
Sheff Wed 13 13
Barnsley 13 12
Southend 13 10
Leeds 13 10
Hull 13 9
Leage Table
QPR Official Site - John Gregory's Comments IT'S A DOGFIGHT
John Gregory readily admitted the R's are in a 'relegation dogfight' after the 3-2 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
A Marcus Tudgay brace and a controversial Steve MacLean spot-kick gave the Owls maximum points, after Rangers had fought back from 2-0 down thanks to a Dexter Blackstock double.
"There's still a lot to be worked on and make no mistake, we're in a dogfight,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Thankfully some of the other results went for us today, but we need to return to winning ways - and quickly.''
Gregory was also keen to have his say on the controversial spot-kick, which led to the Owls winner.
"I thought it was a cast iron penalty from the touchline, but Jonah and the rest of the lads have assured me there was no contact,'' he said.
"Jonah told me he got a foot on the ball and their lad made the most of it.''
After conceding three more goals, Gregory is aware of the need to improve things in the defensive third.
"We were very nervy at times at the back. We've basically gifted them three goals by giving away possession in silly areas and you just can't afford to do that at this level.'' QPR Official Site
More Gregory Comment:
"...Rangers boss John Gregory was not convinced goalkeeper Paul Jones had touched the striker.
"Jonah said he didn't think it was a penalty," he said.
"He felt he got a foot on the ball and two or three of the defending players all said the same.
"But we gave the ball way in the middle of midfield and you can't do that against anybody.
"To lose the game in that manner was disappointing and we threw everything at them in the end - but we just couldn't that equaliser."
Gregory also accused Wednesday's players of failing to give 100% in previous games under Sturrock.
"I think they have been selling their previous manager short if they can put in that sort of performance today," he claimed.
"Paul Sturrock must sit there and feel a little bit aggrieved because those boys today gave everything for the cause.
"Marcus Tudgay, who I know from my time at Derby, was a real handful and took his two goals very well."
Sporting Life
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY MANAGER's PERSPECTIVE
McAuley: "Credit The Players"
Acting Wednesday manager Sean McAuley said the players should take all the credit for the Owls' 3-2 win over Queens Park Rangers following a difficult week at Hillsborough.
The hosts were pegged back from a 2-0 lead before winning the game through Steven MacLean's penalty and McAuley stressed that the three points should take precedence over everything else to do with the club.
The Sheffielder said: "We should focus on the performance of the players - they need to take all the credit. When somebody scores two against you in quick succession it can harm you. But they kept a belief in themselves and pushed on. It showed a lot of character and good mental strength."
McAuley said the way the Owls reacted to Dexter Blackstock's lightning brace was all the more impressive in the wake of their midweek thrashing at Colchester United: "We've got to remember what happened to the players on Wednesday night," he added.
Graham Coughlan missed out on the win with a hamstring injury and Deon Burton limped off with a calf strain, but not before he had played Marcus Tudgay in for his opening goal.
Tudgay went on to form a threatening partnership with MacLean, which pleased McAuley:
"Marcus went out and gave 100 per cent, and got his reward with the two goals," he said. "He formed a good relationship with Deon Burton and then Steven MacLean. That can only be good for the future for the club."
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Match Report
Dexter Blackstock's second half double counted for nothing, as a Steve MacLean spot-kick gave managerless Wednesday all three points.
Trailing 2-0 at the break, Blackstock had sparked hopes of a memorable Rangers comeback when he scored two goals in four second half minutes to put the R's on terms.
But his efforts ultimately proved in vein, when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent MacLean tumbling to ground inside the box on 67 minutes and the same player converted to seal the hosts' victory.
Rangers somehow found themselves trailing 2-0 at the break, despite dominating for long spells at Hillsborough. Marcus Tudgay capitalised on a rare misplaced pass from Jimmy Smith to break the deadlock on12 minutes, before adding a second on the stroke of half-time.
In truth, the R's could have been three goals to the good by the time Tudgay opened his account for the afternoon, with Dexter Blackstock twice testing Brad Jones and Lee Cook letting fly from fully 25-yards.
But having failed to take their chances, the R's paid the ultimate price on 45 minutes, whenTudgay headed home unmarked at the back post.
John Gregory named the same starting XI for the third match in succession, which meant Chelsea loanee Smith continued his flourishing partnership with skipper Marc Bircham in the heart of the R's midfield.
His Blues team-mate Michael Mancienne was again named amongst the substitutes, alongside Simon Royce, Matthew Rose, Nicky Ward and Kevin Gallen.
The Owls - under the guidance of Caretaker Manager Sean McAuley - included Deon Burton, who found the net in the 1-1 draw at Hillsborough last season.
Despite all the pre-match protests from the Wednesday fans, Rangers were by no means overawed by the hostile home crowd, creating a chance inside the opening 60 seconds.
Unsurprisingly, it was Cook who sparked them into life, smashing a fierce drive on target, which Middlesbrough loanee Brad Jones did well to tip away for a corner.
The R's were enjoying the lion's share of possession in the opening stages and when Cook's jinking run ended with a neat pass to Blackstock, the Rangers front-man forced Jones into a fine parry from 12-yards.
The same two players combined again on seven minutes, with Blackstock heading straight at Jones from another inch-perfect Cook delivery.
Yet despite Rangers' solid start, it was the Owls who took the lead on 12 minutes, with their first attack of the contest.
A rare misplaced pass from Smith fell perfectly into the path of Burton, who in turn slid a slide-rule pass through to Tudgay.
The Wednesday front-man made no mistake from 12-yards, holding off Zesh Rehman and finishing with aplomb into the left hand corner.
Undeterred, Rangers were soon back on the front foot, only for Martin Rowlands to get his angles all wrong, curling the ball high and wide from the edge of the box.
Damion Stewart was at full stretch to prevent Burton from heading into an empty net after fine wide play from Frank Simek on 26 minutes, before Marcus Bignot received a yellow card when he hacked down the advancing Wade Small.
And from the resultant free-kick, Smith joined him in the referee's notebook, for presumably failing to retreat the full 10-yards as Chris Brunt shaped up to let fly.
At the other end, Ray Jones' stinging drive from an acute angle brought out the best in his namesake Brad Jones, as the R's continued to create the better opportunities.
But it was Wednesday winger Small who spurned the next golden opportunity, slicing his far post strike into the Kop from little more than eight-yards.
As the half neared its conclusion, a trademark free-kick from Cook was easily gathered by Jones, while Brunt's speculative volley - albeit from a ridiculous angle -flew into Row Z!
R's skipper Bircham was forced from the fray on 44 minutes, with debutant Mancienne taking his place. Steve Lomas reverted to his more accomplished midfield role, but just seconds later Rangers conceded a second.
Tudgay arrived bang on cue to head home Brunt's cross and send the Wednesday fans into ecstasy.
Hope of a Rangers revival loomed large four minutes into the second half, when Blackstock met Cook's piercing centre and thrashed an unstoppable close range finish past Jones.
The R's attack only arose after a poor piece of defending involving the Owls keeper and skipper Madjid Bougherra, but the visitors duly took full advantage.
If Rangers fans were buoyed by that, they were in dreamland three minutes later, when Blackstock added his second.
Cook again played provider, floating an inch-perfect cross on to the head of the former Saints striker, who duly beat Jones from six-yards.
Gregory was forced into his second change on 66 minutes, as Rowlands made way for Nicky Ward.
Sixty seconds later, the R's conceded a penalty when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent Steve MacLean to ground inside the box, after Ward had conceded possession all too easily in the heart of the Rangers midfield.
The Rangers keeper was lucky to escape with just a booking, but there was to be no second reprieve, as MacLean picked himself up, brushed himself down and sent the Welsh custodian the wrong way from the spot.
Bougherra nearly made it four on 79 minutes, but thankfully for the R's, the outstanding Cook was in the right place at the right time, to clear the ball off the line.
Moments later MacLean should have doubled his tally for the afternoon - only to blast over with the goal gaping.
The introduction of Kevin Gallen on 85 minutes prompted a tactical reshuffle, yet despite the R's best efforts in four minutes of added time - when Cook twice tested Jones - it was not to be.
Sheffield Wednesday: Jones, Lunt, Tudgay (Talbot 90), Burton (MacLean 39), Brunt, Hills, Small, Simek, Bougherra, Folly, Spurr.
Subs: Adamson, Bullen, Whelan.
Scorers: Tudgay 12, Tudgay 45, MacLean 67
Bookings: Simek 52
QPR: P Jones, Lomas, Stewart, Rehman, Bignot (Gallen 85), Rowlands (Ward 66), Bircham (Mancienne 44), Smith, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Royce, Rose.
Scorers: Blackstock 49, Blackstock 53
Bookings: Bignot 28, Smith 29, P Jones 67, Lomas 86
Referee: Mr K Hill
Attendance: 23, 813
QPR Official Site
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY OFFICIAL SITE
A penalty from Steven MacLean earned the Owls their third win of the season, as they recovered from losing a two-goal lead to beat Queens Park Rangers.
Marcus Tudgay had scored a first-half double to put Wednesday in the driving seat but that advantage was cancelled out by Dexter Blackstock's brace after the interval.
However MacLean popped up to convert a 70th minute penalty after being fouled, giving the Owls a second successive home triumph.
Brad Jones had a save to make with just over a minute played, turning Lee Cook's drive over the top after a jinking run by the Rangers man. Another burst from Cook saw the Owls keeper dive to hold Blackstock's effort and the pair teamed up again with Jones stopping Blackstock's diving header.
But it was the Owls who broke the deadlock with the clock showing 13 minutes, as Tudgay ran onto a Deon Burton throughball and coolly steered his left-foot shot into the far corner of Paul Jones' net.
A timely interception from Damion Stewart denied Tudgay a shot at a second goal when the centre-back headed Wade Small's cross to safety as the Wednesday man lurked at the far post. And the Owls saw a double opportunity go begging as John Hills' cross evaded Kenny Lunt's lunge and Small sliced his shot off the side of his boot.
Brunt then fired Small's centre well over the top and a timely block from Blackstock halted Tudgay as he looked to turn onto Lunt's low drive. But the former Derby man had been sniffing another goal since his opener and it came in first half stoppage time, as he met Hills' deep cross with a downward back post header past Paul Jones.
However Wednesday's lead evaporated within eight minutes of the restart, as Blackstock converted two Cook crosses to bring the Londoners level. First he sidefooted home in the 50th minute before glancing a header into Brad Jones' far corner three minutes later.
A lull in scoring chances then transpired before Wednesday got back in front with 20 minutes to go. MacLean got in behind the R's defence and rounded Paul Jones before the veteran stopped tripped him. The Scotsman stepped up to plant his kick into the left-hand corner of the keeper's net, sending him the wrong way.
Small fired over from MacLean's lay-off and Madjid Bougherra - captaining the side in Graham Coughlan's absence - had a headed nodded off the line by Cook as the Owls looked for a fourth.
MacLean then looped the ball over the top after Small failed to connect cleanly with Frank Simek's cross. The visitors had a chance when Cook drove across goal in injury time and the winger also tested Paul Jones from distance but the Owls held for the points.
Sheffield Wednesday
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Remembering: Ex-QPR, Alan Glover Turns 56...
-
Alan Glover - Born October 21, 1950Alan Glover made only seven appearances for QPR - all in our 1968/69 Relegation Trauma. After our relegation, teenager Glover joined West Bromwich Albion for 70,000 pounds (including ex-QPR winger Clive Clark in part exchange). At that time 70,000 pounds was the amount we paid for Terry Venables. And 150,000 pounds was the record English transfer fee. So it was a lot of money..
And then basically Glover sadly disappeared from the scene: in and out of the WBA team; and I believe ending up at Orient.
Alan Glover - Born October 21, 1950Alan Glover made only seven appearances for QPR - all in our 1968/69 Relegation Trauma. After our relegation, teenager Glover joined West Bromwich Albion for 70,000 pounds (including ex-QPR winger Clive Clark in part exchange). At that time 70,000 pounds was the amount we paid for Terry Venables. And 150,000 pounds was the record English transfer fee. So it was a lot of money..
And then basically Glover sadly disappeared from the scene: in and out of the WBA team; and I believe ending up at Orient.
Saying Goodbye: "[QPR] have parted company with Gary Waddock".... "Alan McDonald has been given notice to terminate his employment..."
-
One ways of saying "goodbye" and "thanks"...
October 19, 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
September 21, 2006 Official Site - Macca Departs
Alan McDonald has been given notice to terminate his employment at Queens Park Rangers Football Club.
After making 483 appearances for the Hoops in a successful 16-year spell as a player, McDonald joined the R's as Caretaker Assistant Manager in February 2006, prior to taking up the position of Assistant Manager towards the end of June.
Chairman Gianni Paladini told qpr.co.uk: "I'd like to thank Alan McDonald for all the hard work he's done here since February.
"He's been a great servant for this Club, both as a player and in his role as Assistant Manager, and I wish him all the best for the future.
QPR Official Site
And from August 2005:
STATEMENT
"The Board of QPR Holdings Ltd has decided that Mr Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive Officer is to be made redundant with immediate effect. Mr Bill Power is no longer Chairman of the Board but remains as a Director...
QPR Official Statement
One ways of saying "goodbye" and "thanks"...
October 19, 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
September 21, 2006 Official Site - Macca Departs
Alan McDonald has been given notice to terminate his employment at Queens Park Rangers Football Club.
After making 483 appearances for the Hoops in a successful 16-year spell as a player, McDonald joined the R's as Caretaker Assistant Manager in February 2006, prior to taking up the position of Assistant Manager towards the end of June.
Chairman Gianni Paladini told qpr.co.uk: "I'd like to thank Alan McDonald for all the hard work he's done here since February.
"He's been a great servant for this Club, both as a player and in his role as Assistant Manager, and I wish him all the best for the future.
QPR Official Site
And from August 2005:
STATEMENT
"The Board of QPR Holdings Ltd has decided that Mr Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive Officer is to be made redundant with immediate effect. Mr Bill Power is no longer Chairman of the Board but remains as a Director...
QPR Official Statement
Sheffield Wednesday Vs QPR - The Two Clubs' Perspectives
-
[QPR last played Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsbrough in March 2006, drawing 1-1: QPR's Team that day (under then-Caretaker Manager, Gary Waddock) was :
Jones, Bignot, Shittu, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Bircham, Cook, Gallen, Furlong. Subs: Royce, Evatt, Langley, Baidoo, Bailey.]
And the Promotion-winning game: May 8, 2004 - Amazingly Less than 2 1/2 years ago:
QPR: Camp, Padula, Carlisle, Rose, Edghill, Ainsworth, Bircham, Richard Johnson, Rowlands, Furlong, Gallen. Subs: Day, Palmer, Thorpe, Gnohere, Cureton.
Sheff Wed: Pressman, Geary, Barry-Murphy, Dean Smith, Wood, McLaren, McMahon, Cooke, Brunt, Robins, Shaw. Subs: Tidman, Olsen, Chambers, Mustoe, Carr.
BBC
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site
McAuley: "Get Behind Us"
Sean McAuley has asked Owls fans to fulfil their superb reputation ahead of Saturday's meeting with Queens Park Rangers.
McAuley will be in charge of the Wednesday team following the departure of Paul Sturrock and spent Friday preparing for the game.
The Sheffielder is sure that the supporters will give the players their full backing and is keen for them to be rewarded in return, by a squad who have been instructed to focus their attention firmly on the 90 minutes ahead.
"Our supporters are second to none," McAuley said. "I appeal to all the supporters to be right behind the players once that ball rolls at three o'clock and have no doubt they will be. It is important that we as players and employees give them something to shout about.
"We have trained this morning and the players looked nice and bright. They have to be professional in their approach - I have told them to clear their minds and concentrate on the job in hand. We will try and put a good performance on for the supporters and are eagerly looking forward to the game."
McAuley described his determination to stabilise the ship after a dramatic past 48 hours and make the team performance the centre of attention. He admits that football is a game where one must be prepared for different situations and knows that team progress has to be the sole focus.
"I'm employed by Sheffield Wednesday and the most important team in the club is the first team. I got the call to take charge and that's something that I'll do willingly. When I got the call, I got the cones and bibs, rallied everyone around and got them together on the training ground.
"Sympathy goes to anyone who loses their job but in football you never know what's around the corner and have to keep an open mind on everything. We have to get on with the task in hand."
Sean also spoke of the need to move on from past results and focus on the present. He plans to drill home that message prior to kick off on Saturday.
"Results in the past have gone, we have to focus on QPR. The mood among the players has been good and we want to put a good performance in."
Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site Preview
Queens Park Rangers Preview
Saturday 21st October at Hillsborough - Kick Off: 3pm
Team News
SWFC: Academy Director Sean McAuley takes temporary charge of the Owls and could have Chris Brunt available again after a virus kept the winger out of the Colchester game. Richard Wood and Peter Gilbert are out until November.
QPR: John Gregory could hand a debut to on-loan Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne: an unused sub for the midweek defeat by Derby. Winger Gareth Ainsworth is still sidelined due to a hamstring injury, along with forwards Paul Furlong (thigh), Adam Czerkas (hip) and Marc Nygaard (back).
Previous Line-Ups
SWFC (vs. Colchester): Jones, Simek, Coughlan, Bougherra, Hills, Bullen (Lunt 63), O'Brien, Folly, Small, MacLean (Burton 63), Tudgay (Talbot 63). Subs not used: Adamson, Spurr.
QPR (vs. Derby): Paul Jones, Lomas (Donnelly 82), Rehman, Stewart, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, Ray Jones (Gallen 74), Blackstock. Subs not used: Royce, Ward, Mancienne.
Form - Last 5 matches
(All competitions)
SWFC: L-W-L-L-L
QPR: L-D-W-W-L
Match Odds - courtesy of Owlsbet.co.uk
Owls win: 13/10
Draw: 21/10
QPR win: 15/8
Correct Score: Owls to win 2-0: 17/2
Scorecast: Graham Coughlan to score first and Owls win 2-0: 120/1
Complete History
(All competitions)
Wednesday wins: 24
Draws: 11
QPR wins: 17
At Hillsborough:
Wednesday wins: 17
Draws: 3
QPR wins: 7
Last Time Out
Coca Cola Championship (h) 11/03/06: Owls 1-1 QPR
Wednesday were left frustrated after being held by Queens Park Rangers despite dominating the Hillsborough contest and creating enough chances to win two matches. The Owls dominated the play but were left lamenting their inability to make their superiority count, as R's keeper Paul Jones and the woodwork kept them at bay.
Wednesday took the lead on 13 minutes when Deon Burton opened his SWFC account from Glenn Whelan's pass only for Rovers's captain Marc Bircham to equalise with a header just before half time.
Facts and Stats
Rangers have won on three of their last five visits to Hillsborough.
Wednesday have not won any of their last four meetings with the Rs.
The teams met six times in the Premiership, with the spoils even at three wins apiece.
One to Watch: Martin Rowlands (14)
From www.qpr.co.uk
Hammersmith-born midfielder Martin Rowlands joined Rangers in July 2003 on a free transfer from local rivals Brentford. With four goals from eights starts in midfield this season, the Irishman is a threat going forward. Rowly emerged as Rangers' brightest star during season 2004/05 - but his progression came to a rapid halt last season, where a long term knee injury restricted him to just 12 starts.
Rowlands began his career with non-league Farnborough, before joining the Bees for £45,000 in August 1998. He spent five seasons at Griffin Park making 186 appearances and scoring 22 goals. A skilful and pacy player, he broke his leg towards the end of the 2002/03 season, but enjoyed a complete recovery before putting pen to paper on a two year deal at Loftus Road.
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PERSPECTIVE
Sheffield Wednesday are in crisis following the shock sacking of Paul Sturrock.
The Owls parted company with the Scot on Thursday afternoon - less than a month after he penned a new contract.
"Our league position says it all," Wednesday chairman Dave Allen told the club website.
"In spite of strengthening the squad this year, we have not made the desired progress and, to that end, we need a change in the coaching staff."
Sturrock joined the Owls in 2004 and committed to the Hillsborough club until the summer of 2010 in a new deal last month.
Chairman Allen said an announcement regarding who will take temporary charge of the team would be made on Friday and that the search for a new manager had already started.
Languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship, Wednesday are one of a host of former Premiership Clubs fearing the dreaded drop into the third tier of English football.
The Owls currently lie in 21st place in the Championship table, with just two victories to their name thus far.
The real problem for Wednesday arrives when they play in front of their own fans at the magnificent Hillsborough stadium.
Indeed the Owls have registered just a single victory at home this season - albeit a confidence-boosting 2-1 win against local rivals Barnsley last weekend.
An opening day stalemate at Deepdale provided hope, before a home defeat to Luton Town, coupled with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Burnley, saw Sturrock's men struggling from the outset.
Goals from Sean McAllister and Burton O'Brien eventually broke their duck at Plymouth, only for the Owls to crash to a humiliating 4-1 home defeat at the hands of Wrexham in the Carling Cup.
And it's been pretty much downhill ever since for the Owls, with losses to Leeds, Hull, Derby and Sunderland and Wednesday night's 4-0 thrashing at Colchester United only serving to compound their woes.
That proved to be the final straw for the Owls board, who parted company with Sturrock less than 24 hours later...
Top scorer: Chris Brunt 3....
Sturrock on U's: "The players have to stand up and be counted for after that performance. We were not good enough and we have let the fans down.
"There can be no excuses for us. Too many times people have been pointing the finger at injuries and suspensions.
"But we are at the point where we have to bring in players who have the heart and commitment to play for my team."...
Key player: Burton O'Brien (pictured, below)
Burton moved south to Hillsborough from Livingston in July 2005, signing a three-year contract with the Owls.
A creative left-footed player who normally operates in the centre of the park, the South African born midfielder previosuly spent three years at Ewood Park prior to making a return north with Livi in 2002.
In almost three years at the Almondvale Stadium, Burton made 119 appearances and scored 16 goals, with the highlight being Livi's Scottish League Cup win in 2004.
.....
Hillsborough holds fond memories for R's
fans and players alike
Latest News:
Sheffield Wednesday have reduced their losses by £250,000 over the last year, reports BBC Radio Sheffield.
The club's annual accounts show the Owls made a loss of £180,000 in the 12 months up to May 2006, compared to over £2.5m the year before.
The improvement is down to a 20 per cent increase in turnover following promotion to the Championship.
Chairman Dave Allen said: "The results show the club is trading successfully and showing excellent progress."
(Source: BBC Sport) QPR OFFICIAL
[QPR last played Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsbrough in March 2006, drawing 1-1: QPR's Team that day (under then-Caretaker Manager, Gary Waddock) was :
Jones, Bignot, Shittu, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Bircham, Cook, Gallen, Furlong. Subs: Royce, Evatt, Langley, Baidoo, Bailey.]
And the Promotion-winning game: May 8, 2004 - Amazingly Less than 2 1/2 years ago:
QPR: Camp, Padula, Carlisle, Rose, Edghill, Ainsworth, Bircham, Richard Johnson, Rowlands, Furlong, Gallen. Subs: Day, Palmer, Thorpe, Gnohere, Cureton.
Sheff Wed: Pressman, Geary, Barry-Murphy, Dean Smith, Wood, McLaren, McMahon, Cooke, Brunt, Robins, Shaw. Subs: Tidman, Olsen, Chambers, Mustoe, Carr.
BBC
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site
McAuley: "Get Behind Us"
Sean McAuley has asked Owls fans to fulfil their superb reputation ahead of Saturday's meeting with Queens Park Rangers.
McAuley will be in charge of the Wednesday team following the departure of Paul Sturrock and spent Friday preparing for the game.
The Sheffielder is sure that the supporters will give the players their full backing and is keen for them to be rewarded in return, by a squad who have been instructed to focus their attention firmly on the 90 minutes ahead.
"Our supporters are second to none," McAuley said. "I appeal to all the supporters to be right behind the players once that ball rolls at three o'clock and have no doubt they will be. It is important that we as players and employees give them something to shout about.
"We have trained this morning and the players looked nice and bright. They have to be professional in their approach - I have told them to clear their minds and concentrate on the job in hand. We will try and put a good performance on for the supporters and are eagerly looking forward to the game."
McAuley described his determination to stabilise the ship after a dramatic past 48 hours and make the team performance the centre of attention. He admits that football is a game where one must be prepared for different situations and knows that team progress has to be the sole focus.
"I'm employed by Sheffield Wednesday and the most important team in the club is the first team. I got the call to take charge and that's something that I'll do willingly. When I got the call, I got the cones and bibs, rallied everyone around and got them together on the training ground.
"Sympathy goes to anyone who loses their job but in football you never know what's around the corner and have to keep an open mind on everything. We have to get on with the task in hand."
Sean also spoke of the need to move on from past results and focus on the present. He plans to drill home that message prior to kick off on Saturday.
"Results in the past have gone, we have to focus on QPR. The mood among the players has been good and we want to put a good performance in."
Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site Preview
Queens Park Rangers Preview
Saturday 21st October at Hillsborough - Kick Off: 3pm
Team News
SWFC: Academy Director Sean McAuley takes temporary charge of the Owls and could have Chris Brunt available again after a virus kept the winger out of the Colchester game. Richard Wood and Peter Gilbert are out until November.
QPR: John Gregory could hand a debut to on-loan Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne: an unused sub for the midweek defeat by Derby. Winger Gareth Ainsworth is still sidelined due to a hamstring injury, along with forwards Paul Furlong (thigh), Adam Czerkas (hip) and Marc Nygaard (back).
Previous Line-Ups
SWFC (vs. Colchester): Jones, Simek, Coughlan, Bougherra, Hills, Bullen (Lunt 63), O'Brien, Folly, Small, MacLean (Burton 63), Tudgay (Talbot 63). Subs not used: Adamson, Spurr.
QPR (vs. Derby): Paul Jones, Lomas (Donnelly 82), Rehman, Stewart, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, Ray Jones (Gallen 74), Blackstock. Subs not used: Royce, Ward, Mancienne.
Form - Last 5 matches
(All competitions)
SWFC: L-W-L-L-L
QPR: L-D-W-W-L
Match Odds - courtesy of Owlsbet.co.uk
Owls win: 13/10
Draw: 21/10
QPR win: 15/8
Correct Score: Owls to win 2-0: 17/2
Scorecast: Graham Coughlan to score first and Owls win 2-0: 120/1
Complete History
(All competitions)
Wednesday wins: 24
Draws: 11
QPR wins: 17
At Hillsborough:
Wednesday wins: 17
Draws: 3
QPR wins: 7
Last Time Out
Coca Cola Championship (h) 11/03/06: Owls 1-1 QPR
Wednesday were left frustrated after being held by Queens Park Rangers despite dominating the Hillsborough contest and creating enough chances to win two matches. The Owls dominated the play but were left lamenting their inability to make their superiority count, as R's keeper Paul Jones and the woodwork kept them at bay.
Wednesday took the lead on 13 minutes when Deon Burton opened his SWFC account from Glenn Whelan's pass only for Rovers's captain Marc Bircham to equalise with a header just before half time.
Facts and Stats
Rangers have won on three of their last five visits to Hillsborough.
Wednesday have not won any of their last four meetings with the Rs.
The teams met six times in the Premiership, with the spoils even at three wins apiece.
One to Watch: Martin Rowlands (14)
From www.qpr.co.uk
Hammersmith-born midfielder Martin Rowlands joined Rangers in July 2003 on a free transfer from local rivals Brentford. With four goals from eights starts in midfield this season, the Irishman is a threat going forward. Rowly emerged as Rangers' brightest star during season 2004/05 - but his progression came to a rapid halt last season, where a long term knee injury restricted him to just 12 starts.
Rowlands began his career with non-league Farnborough, before joining the Bees for £45,000 in August 1998. He spent five seasons at Griffin Park making 186 appearances and scoring 22 goals. A skilful and pacy player, he broke his leg towards the end of the 2002/03 season, but enjoyed a complete recovery before putting pen to paper on a two year deal at Loftus Road.
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PERSPECTIVE
Sheffield Wednesday are in crisis following the shock sacking of Paul Sturrock.
The Owls parted company with the Scot on Thursday afternoon - less than a month after he penned a new contract.
"Our league position says it all," Wednesday chairman Dave Allen told the club website.
"In spite of strengthening the squad this year, we have not made the desired progress and, to that end, we need a change in the coaching staff."
Sturrock joined the Owls in 2004 and committed to the Hillsborough club until the summer of 2010 in a new deal last month.
Chairman Allen said an announcement regarding who will take temporary charge of the team would be made on Friday and that the search for a new manager had already started.
Languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship, Wednesday are one of a host of former Premiership Clubs fearing the dreaded drop into the third tier of English football.
The Owls currently lie in 21st place in the Championship table, with just two victories to their name thus far.
The real problem for Wednesday arrives when they play in front of their own fans at the magnificent Hillsborough stadium.
Indeed the Owls have registered just a single victory at home this season - albeit a confidence-boosting 2-1 win against local rivals Barnsley last weekend.
An opening day stalemate at Deepdale provided hope, before a home defeat to Luton Town, coupled with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Burnley, saw Sturrock's men struggling from the outset.
Goals from Sean McAllister and Burton O'Brien eventually broke their duck at Plymouth, only for the Owls to crash to a humiliating 4-1 home defeat at the hands of Wrexham in the Carling Cup.
And it's been pretty much downhill ever since for the Owls, with losses to Leeds, Hull, Derby and Sunderland and Wednesday night's 4-0 thrashing at Colchester United only serving to compound their woes.
That proved to be the final straw for the Owls board, who parted company with Sturrock less than 24 hours later...
Top scorer: Chris Brunt 3....
Sturrock on U's: "The players have to stand up and be counted for after that performance. We were not good enough and we have let the fans down.
"There can be no excuses for us. Too many times people have been pointing the finger at injuries and suspensions.
"But we are at the point where we have to bring in players who have the heart and commitment to play for my team."...
Key player: Burton O'Brien (pictured, below)
Burton moved south to Hillsborough from Livingston in July 2005, signing a three-year contract with the Owls.
A creative left-footed player who normally operates in the centre of the park, the South African born midfielder previosuly spent three years at Ewood Park prior to making a return north with Livi in 2002.
In almost three years at the Almondvale Stadium, Burton made 119 appearances and scored 16 goals, with the highlight being Livi's Scottish League Cup win in 2004.
.....
Hillsborough holds fond memories for R's
fans and players alike
Latest News:
Sheffield Wednesday have reduced their losses by £250,000 over the last year, reports BBC Radio Sheffield.
The club's annual accounts show the Owls made a loss of £180,000 in the 12 months up to May 2006, compared to over £2.5m the year before.
The improvement is down to a 20 per cent increase in turnover following promotion to the Championship.
Chairman Dave Allen said: "The results show the club is trading successfully and showing excellent progress."
(Source: BBC Sport) QPR OFFICIAL
Friday, October 20, 2006
"Ex" Coach, Tim Breaker STILL a QPR Employee?
-
Plymouth Official Site - October 19, 2006 TIM DELAYED
TIM Breacker's arrival at Argyle as part of the Home Park coaching team has been further delayed.
Breacker was placed on gardening leave at QPR, along with Ian Holloway, and he is been trying to sort out contract complications with Rangers' chairman Gianni Palladini.
Holloway remains confident that Breacker will be on board soon as Argyle chariman Paul Stapleton is continuing discussions with Mr Palladini.
"Tim Breacker will hopefully be here soon," said Holloway.
"The chairman is talking to Mr Palladini. Hopefully, my chairman will sort that out.
"If it takes ten months to get him here, I don't care. He should never have been placed on gardening leave. He should have taken over the team if they were not happy with me."
Plymouth
Plymouth Official Site - October 19, 2006 TIM DELAYED
TIM Breacker's arrival at Argyle as part of the Home Park coaching team has been further delayed.
Breacker was placed on gardening leave at QPR, along with Ian Holloway, and he is been trying to sort out contract complications with Rangers' chairman Gianni Palladini.
Holloway remains confident that Breacker will be on board soon as Argyle chariman Paul Stapleton is continuing discussions with Mr Palladini.
"Tim Breacker will hopefully be here soon," said Holloway.
"The chairman is talking to Mr Palladini. Hopefully, my chairman will sort that out.
"If it takes ten months to get him here, I don't care. He should never have been placed on gardening leave. He should have taken over the team if they were not happy with me."
Plymouth
Alan McDonald on QPR: "No Hard Feelings...It hasn't changed my affection for QPR""
-
Ealing Gazette - October 16, 2006
No hard feelings, says Mcdonald
ALAN McDonald insists he has no hard feelings towards QPR following his exit in the wake of John Gregory's appointment as manager.
McDonald, who spent 17 years as a player at Loftus Road, left his job as assistant boss soon after Gregory was installed.
The former Northern Ireland international could be forgiven for having his feelings towards the club permanently soured.
He was unhappy at the manner of his release as a player in 1997 after giving Rangers such loyal service.
McDonald was then in the process of moving to Belfast - and was in contention for the Glentoran manager's job - before a sudden return to west London as Gary Waddock's right-hand man, only to find himself out of work just eight games into the new season.
Alan M But McDonald reflected: "That's part of being in football. I'll just spend some time with my family and see what happens in the future.
"I'm moving back to Belfast, which was the plan before I went back to QPR. It's a shame in many ways to have left the club again but these things happen."
McDonald has no complaints about the decision to wield the axe, although he is reluctant to comment on the abrupt manner of his departure.
Gregory was in place within hours of the League Cup defeat at Port Vale and had been lined up to take over before the game.
"Results weren't good and I take my share of the responsibility for that," McDonald admitted.
"It hasn't changed my affection for QPR. That will never happen.
It was always the first result I looked for before I came back and will always be the first the result I look for."
McDonald believes his former team-mate Gregory will prove to be a success in the Rs hotseat. The new boss has made the perfect start with wins over Hull and promotion-chasing Southampton, and McDonald is convinced the turnaround will be maintained. QPR are in action again tomorrow at home to Norwich.
"John will do well," he predicted. "There's a good enough squad there to finish quite high up that division.
"You've got lads like Ray Jones, Shabazz Baidoo and Pat Kanyuka coming through and that's great to see, because bringing on the youngsters is something the club was always good at and hopefully will be in the future."
Ealing Gazette
Ealing Gazette - October 16, 2006
No hard feelings, says Mcdonald
ALAN McDonald insists he has no hard feelings towards QPR following his exit in the wake of John Gregory's appointment as manager.
McDonald, who spent 17 years as a player at Loftus Road, left his job as assistant boss soon after Gregory was installed.
The former Northern Ireland international could be forgiven for having his feelings towards the club permanently soured.
He was unhappy at the manner of his release as a player in 1997 after giving Rangers such loyal service.
McDonald was then in the process of moving to Belfast - and was in contention for the Glentoran manager's job - before a sudden return to west London as Gary Waddock's right-hand man, only to find himself out of work just eight games into the new season.
Alan M But McDonald reflected: "That's part of being in football. I'll just spend some time with my family and see what happens in the future.
"I'm moving back to Belfast, which was the plan before I went back to QPR. It's a shame in many ways to have left the club again but these things happen."
McDonald has no complaints about the decision to wield the axe, although he is reluctant to comment on the abrupt manner of his departure.
Gregory was in place within hours of the League Cup defeat at Port Vale and had been lined up to take over before the game.
"Results weren't good and I take my share of the responsibility for that," McDonald admitted.
"It hasn't changed my affection for QPR. That will never happen.
It was always the first result I looked for before I came back and will always be the first the result I look for."
McDonald believes his former team-mate Gregory will prove to be a success in the Rs hotseat. The new boss has made the perfect start with wins over Hull and promotion-chasing Southampton, and McDonald is convinced the turnaround will be maintained. QPR are in action again tomorrow at home to Norwich.
"John will do well," he predicted. "There's a good enough squad there to finish quite high up that division.
"You've got lads like Ray Jones, Shabazz Baidoo and Pat Kanyuka coming through and that's great to see, because bringing on the youngsters is something the club was always good at and hopefully will be in the future."
Ealing Gazette
Ex-QPR Goalie Sieb Dykstra Turns 40
-
Seib Dyskstra: Born October 20, 1966. Signed from Motherwell by Gerry Francis in 1994 to replace Jan Stejskal. Dykstra was at QPR for two years.
Mini Profile
Seib Dyskstra: Born October 20, 1966. Signed from Motherwell by Gerry Francis in 1994 to replace Jan Stejskal. Dykstra was at QPR for two years.
Mini Profile
Thursday, October 19, 2006
QPR "Part Company" with Waddock - Less than a Month after Chairman Paladini Declared Waddock Would Remain at QPR Under Gregory
-
[The departure comes less than a month after Chairman Paladini specifically declared that Waddock would be staying and working with/under John Gregory.]
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
NB: Chairman Paladini's September 22 comments re John Gregory's appointment as manager, and Gary Waddock's role in the new regime
Paladini Video
[The departure comes less than a month after Chairman Paladini specifically declared that Waddock would be staying and working with/under John Gregory.]
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
NB: Chairman Paladini's September 22 comments re John Gregory's appointment as manager, and Gary Waddock's role in the new regime
Paladini Video
"He Said/He Said" Paladini on AKUTRs
-
On September 25, QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini made the following statement about AKUTRs which was posted on QPR's Official Site as a "Club Statement." Paladini concluded his statement "I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded." Three weeks later, at the Fan Forum, Paladini spoke about the AKUTRs (in response to a question.)
September 25: Club Statement by Gianni Paladini on the recent edition of 'A Kick Up The Rs:'
The publication 'A Kick Up The Rs' has recently published a deeply misleading, inaccurate and scandalous article about myself and Queens Park Rangers FC.
A number of serious allegations have been made in that publication which are not true. The publication failed to contact myself or anyone else at the Club to verify their allegations.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, I have been reluctantly forced to take legal action. The matter is now in the hands of my solicitors.
I expect a comprehensive retraction and apology from the publication for publishing these falsehoods. If they are not prepared to provide that, the matter will be dealt with by the courts.
I am sorry it must come to this, but in order for me to be able to defend myself from such blatant and hurtful untruths, I have no alternative than to take this action.
I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded.
Official
October 13: QPR OFFICIAL Site - Paladini at the October 12 Fan Forum
GP on AKUTR'S: I didn't take this man to court. People think I take people to court because the coffee is too cold. ....The magazine, I never said I would take them to court, I wanted a chance to respond to serious things that were said about me in that magazine, he never had the decency to get in touch with me for a discussion and my side, I'm talking about the journalist here not the man who edits the magazine. If you don't do anything about this, you're guilty. The allegations he made against me are wrong. If they are true then I shouldn't be the chairman. If they are right I'd resign tomorrow
Fan Forum
On September 25, QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini made the following statement about AKUTRs which was posted on QPR's Official Site as a "Club Statement." Paladini concluded his statement "I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded." Three weeks later, at the Fan Forum, Paladini spoke about the AKUTRs (in response to a question.)
September 25: Club Statement by Gianni Paladini on the recent edition of 'A Kick Up The Rs:'
The publication 'A Kick Up The Rs' has recently published a deeply misleading, inaccurate and scandalous article about myself and Queens Park Rangers FC.
A number of serious allegations have been made in that publication which are not true. The publication failed to contact myself or anyone else at the Club to verify their allegations.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, I have been reluctantly forced to take legal action. The matter is now in the hands of my solicitors.
I expect a comprehensive retraction and apology from the publication for publishing these falsehoods. If they are not prepared to provide that, the matter will be dealt with by the courts.
I am sorry it must come to this, but in order for me to be able to defend myself from such blatant and hurtful untruths, I have no alternative than to take this action.
I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded.
Official
October 13: QPR OFFICIAL Site - Paladini at the October 12 Fan Forum
GP on AKUTR'S: I didn't take this man to court. People think I take people to court because the coffee is too cold. ....The magazine, I never said I would take them to court, I wanted a chance to respond to serious things that were said about me in that magazine, he never had the decency to get in touch with me for a discussion and my side, I'm talking about the journalist here not the man who edits the magazine. If you don't do anything about this, you're guilty. The allegations he made against me are wrong. If they are true then I shouldn't be the chairman. If they are right I'd resign tomorrow
Fan Forum
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)