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Argus - Rooks refuse to give up play-off dream
Steven King will unveil his latest Lewes signing tonight in a game which could make or break their season.
The Rooks take on second-placed Salisbury City at the Dripping Pan with King warning a defeat would end their play-off hopes.
Despite being ranked as outsiders because of the number of games they have played, Lewes still believe they can force their way into the top five if they can continue their excellent recent run.
King's men have won four of their last five games, are unbeaten in eight matches and have lost just two of their last 15.
Left-back Matthew Hislop, who made one first team appearance for Queens Park Rangers, makes his debut tonight after joining on a noncontract basis until the end of the season with King knowing there is no margin for error.
He said: "We need maximum points.
I believe we need at least 70 points, possibly 73, to make the play-offs and that means more or less winning every game.
"All the time we feel we have got a chance, we have got to believe it and go for it.
"Our home form is good this year - we have only lost three at home. We have only lost two of our last 15 matches and we have got to keep winning and see where that takes us."
King already has half an eye on next season and wants to take a look at Hislop, who arrives at the Dripping Pan with a good pedigree.
The 20-year-old began his career at Arsenal where he was a regular in the under-17 and under-19 Academy sides before switching to QPR in March 2005.
He is also a former England Schoolboy international where he played alongside the likes of Jerome Thomas (Charlton), Mark Noble (West Ham) and Fabrice Muamba (Birmingham).
Hislop made his Rangers debut in a 2-1 win over Leicester at the Walkers Stadium in September 2005 but suffered a serious ankle injury in the second half and never played for the first team again.
After being transfer listed by Gary Waddock at the end of last season, he remained under new boss John Gregory but was recently released early from his two-year contract.
King said: "He is an out and out leftback who is 6ft and spent two years at QPR and Arsenal before that.
"He played against us in pre-season and is with us until the end of the season.
The incentive is to earn himself a deal for next season."
With Lewis Hamilton, the only recognised left-back at Lewes, currently sidelined with a thigh injury, Hislop will go straight into the side tonight.
Fellow defender Steve Robinson is again missing as he completes a twomatch suspension while midfielder Gary Holloway plays his last game before starting a two-match ban of his own which rules him out of the Sussex Senior Cup semi-final with Worthing on Wednesday and the Conference south clash with Welling next Saturday.
Striker Paul Booth will look to continue a remarkable sequence of scoring which has seen him net nine goals in his last five games.
As well as snapping up Hislop, King has been looking at other options to bolster his squad for the run-in although there will be no further signings before tonight's game with a Salisbury side short on strikers.
The visitors' main frontman Matt Tubbs is suspended, recent signing Marvin Brown has a groin injury while another forward Paul Sales is also sidelined.
In addition, goalkeeper Ryan Clarke is doubtful with injury. However, Salisbury will give a debut to former Blackburn midfielder Jerome Watt, who signed on loan yesterday from Northampton. The Argus
See also Lewes "the Might Rooks"- Lewes
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Friday, March 23, 2007
John Gregory Looks at QPR's Forthcoming Games, including the Crucial Match vs WBA
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QPR Official Site - John Gregory "OUR BIGGEST TEST"
John Gregory has labelled the visit of West Bromwich Albion to W12 next Saturday as the R's 'biggest match of the season.'
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk ahead of a rare weekend away from competitive action, the R's gaffer gave us his thoughts on the week ahead.
"West Brom is our biggest match of the season, without any doubt.
"A win against West Brom and then another versus Preston will certainly go a long way to securing our future in this division.''
"It's absolutely massive for us, but if we get the support we've had over the last few weeks - both at Loftus Road and on our travels - it will have a huge influence on the side.
"A win against West Brom and then another on Tuesday versus Preston will certainly go a long way to securing our future in this division.''
With international football taking centre stage over the coming days, Gregory believes the 14-day break from competitive action will do his squad the power of good.
"We'll be using this short break to take one last deep breath before we march on to the final countdown,'' he said.
"I'd have preferred a fixture this weekend, but having said that, at least the break will give one or two players the opportunity to recover from their respective injuries.''
However, Gregory did bemoan the forthcoming fixture schedule, which see's the R's play four crucial games in the space of ten days.
"The fixture list is utterly crazy. By the time West Brom come to town we'll have had a 14-day break since our last fixture and then all of a sudden we play Albion, Preston, Coventry and Luton in the space of ten days!
"We'll be using this short break to take one last deep breath before we march on to the final countdown.''
"Its madness, but unfortunately it's been an annual problem in our game for many years. When the four home nations are all in action there is little alternative - so we just have to get on with the job in hand.''
Rotation could be the key for Rangers during that period and Gregory isn't afraid to tinker with his line-up: "Without question, we'll have to chop and change.
"Some of the lads will play all four games, but many of them will feature in one, two or three.
"We've got four strikers all vying for two positions and it would be safe to say that the front-two I pick against West Brom will differ from the two I pick for the visit of Preston a few days later.''
Martin Rowlands
Buoyed by a five point return from their last three fixtures, Gregory is also hopeful of recalling Dexter Blackstock and Martin Rowlands to the squad ahead of the West Bromwich fixture.
Blackstock sustained a hamstring injury against Sheffield Wednesday earlier in the month, while Rowlands was forced from the fray early on at Pride Park.
"Dex is well on the road to recovery. It was very much precautionary that we rested him for Derby and Leicester and if everything goes according to plan, he'll be back firing for West Brom.
"Rowly should be okay too, which is a massive boost when you consider how well he was playing prior to his injury.''
"Rowly should be okay too, which is a massive boost when you consider how well he was playing prior to his injury.'' Official Site
QPR Official Site - John Gregory "OUR BIGGEST TEST"
John Gregory has labelled the visit of West Bromwich Albion to W12 next Saturday as the R's 'biggest match of the season.'
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk ahead of a rare weekend away from competitive action, the R's gaffer gave us his thoughts on the week ahead.
"West Brom is our biggest match of the season, without any doubt.
"A win against West Brom and then another versus Preston will certainly go a long way to securing our future in this division.''
"It's absolutely massive for us, but if we get the support we've had over the last few weeks - both at Loftus Road and on our travels - it will have a huge influence on the side.
"A win against West Brom and then another on Tuesday versus Preston will certainly go a long way to securing our future in this division.''
With international football taking centre stage over the coming days, Gregory believes the 14-day break from competitive action will do his squad the power of good.
"We'll be using this short break to take one last deep breath before we march on to the final countdown,'' he said.
"I'd have preferred a fixture this weekend, but having said that, at least the break will give one or two players the opportunity to recover from their respective injuries.''
However, Gregory did bemoan the forthcoming fixture schedule, which see's the R's play four crucial games in the space of ten days.
"The fixture list is utterly crazy. By the time West Brom come to town we'll have had a 14-day break since our last fixture and then all of a sudden we play Albion, Preston, Coventry and Luton in the space of ten days!
"We'll be using this short break to take one last deep breath before we march on to the final countdown.''
"Its madness, but unfortunately it's been an annual problem in our game for many years. When the four home nations are all in action there is little alternative - so we just have to get on with the job in hand.''
Rotation could be the key for Rangers during that period and Gregory isn't afraid to tinker with his line-up: "Without question, we'll have to chop and change.
"Some of the lads will play all four games, but many of them will feature in one, two or three.
"We've got four strikers all vying for two positions and it would be safe to say that the front-two I pick against West Brom will differ from the two I pick for the visit of Preston a few days later.''
Martin Rowlands
Buoyed by a five point return from their last three fixtures, Gregory is also hopeful of recalling Dexter Blackstock and Martin Rowlands to the squad ahead of the West Bromwich fixture.
Blackstock sustained a hamstring injury against Sheffield Wednesday earlier in the month, while Rowlands was forced from the fray early on at Pride Park.
"Dex is well on the road to recovery. It was very much precautionary that we rested him for Derby and Leicester and if everything goes according to plan, he'll be back firing for West Brom.
"Rowly should be okay too, which is a massive boost when you consider how well he was playing prior to his injury.''
"Rowly should be okay too, which is a massive boost when you consider how well he was playing prior to his injury.'' Official Site
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Deadline Loan Out...Rehman to Brighton
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QPR Official Site
BRIGHTON BOUND
R's defender Zesh Rehman has joined League One outfit Brighton & Hove Albion on loan for the remainder of the season.
The 23 year-old - who joined Rangers from Fulham for an undisclosed fee in the summer - links up with fellow R's loanee Nicky Ward at the Withdean Stadium.
Rehman has made 25 starts in all competitions for the Hoops this season, but gaffer John Gregory believes the move will suit both the player and the Club.
"Zesh has still got two more years on his contract here, but it's in his and the Club's best interests that he goes out on loan to play some competitive football.
"He's a great professional and he's still very much our player. Going to Brighton presents him with an ideal opportunity to get his confidence back.''
Rehman previously spent two spells on loan with the Seagulls during the 2003/04 campaign, finding the back of the net twice in 11 appearances.
QPR
BRIGHTON OFFICIAL SITE - Rehman Returns!
QPR defender Zesh Rehman has today agreed to his third loan spell with the Albion.
The deal, which has been completed just short of the loan deadline of 5pm, sees Rehman join the Seagulls until the end of the season.
Rehman became the club's first Asian player when he was originally signed by Steve Coppell as a midfielder in September 2003 when still a Fulham player. He made a dramatic impact, scoring a spectacular goal on his debut in a 3-1 win at Rushden & Diamonds.
He then returned to Craven Cottage after the initial month, only to return to Withdean a few weeks later for a second month under Mark McGhee. In all Rehman made 13 appearances in a blue and white shirt, scoring two goals.
He has since enjoyed a three-month loan spell at Norwich - during which time he played against the Seagulls in the Canaries' 3-0 win at Carrow Road in February 2006 - before signing permanently for QPR in August.
Rehman has found first team opportunities limited at Loftus Road following the arrival of former Albion captain Danny Cullip from Nottingham Forest.
He will link up with the squad on Friday and will be available for the visit of Huddersfield this weekend. Brighton
QPR Official Site
BRIGHTON BOUND
R's defender Zesh Rehman has joined League One outfit Brighton & Hove Albion on loan for the remainder of the season.
The 23 year-old - who joined Rangers from Fulham for an undisclosed fee in the summer - links up with fellow R's loanee Nicky Ward at the Withdean Stadium.
Rehman has made 25 starts in all competitions for the Hoops this season, but gaffer John Gregory believes the move will suit both the player and the Club.
"Zesh has still got two more years on his contract here, but it's in his and the Club's best interests that he goes out on loan to play some competitive football.
"He's a great professional and he's still very much our player. Going to Brighton presents him with an ideal opportunity to get his confidence back.''
Rehman previously spent two spells on loan with the Seagulls during the 2003/04 campaign, finding the back of the net twice in 11 appearances.
QPR
BRIGHTON OFFICIAL SITE - Rehman Returns!
QPR defender Zesh Rehman has today agreed to his third loan spell with the Albion.
The deal, which has been completed just short of the loan deadline of 5pm, sees Rehman join the Seagulls until the end of the season.
Rehman became the club's first Asian player when he was originally signed by Steve Coppell as a midfielder in September 2003 when still a Fulham player. He made a dramatic impact, scoring a spectacular goal on his debut in a 3-1 win at Rushden & Diamonds.
He then returned to Craven Cottage after the initial month, only to return to Withdean a few weeks later for a second month under Mark McGhee. In all Rehman made 13 appearances in a blue and white shirt, scoring two goals.
He has since enjoyed a three-month loan spell at Norwich - during which time he played against the Seagulls in the Canaries' 3-0 win at Carrow Road in February 2006 - before signing permanently for QPR in August.
Rehman has found first team opportunities limited at Loftus Road following the arrival of former Albion captain Danny Cullip from Nottingham Forest.
He will link up with the squad on Friday and will be available for the visit of Huddersfield this weekend. Brighton
Deadline Loan! Wolves Midfielder, Rohan Ricketts Signs
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[Good luck to him. I WAS hoping for a forward...and Gregory himself said a couple of days ago that he would not be making any more loan signings before the deadline!]
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QPR Official Site - RICKETTS SIGNS
Wolverhampton Wanderers attacking midfielder Rohan Ricketts has joined the R's on loan until the end of the season.
The 24 year-old - whose former Clubs include North London duo Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur - will be available for seven of the R's final eight fixtures of the season.
Ricketts - who under the terms of his loan switch will not feature against Mick McCarthy's side at Molineux in the R's penultimate fixture of the season - will wear the number 34 shirt.
Gaffer John Gregory - who beat the Football League loan deadline by minutes to swoop for the versatile midfielder - expressed his delight at the move, telling www.qpr.co.uk: "It's a good deal for both QPR and Rohan.
"He's a decent footballer, with a good pair of legs and he'll be a useful addition to the squad between now and the end of the season.
"He's out of favour at the moment at Wolves, but I've always liked the look of him as a footballer and it's a great opportunity for him.''
Gregory continued: "I've not guaranteed him anything, but he's here for six weeks with the opportunity to help us out at any given stage should we lose one or two due to injury.
"He can play anywhere across the midfield and has experience of playing up-front too. He's one of those players who is capable of turning the game on its head when it's required.''QPR
WOLVES OFFICIAL SITE - Midfielder Out On Loan
Rohan Ricketts has joined Queens Park Rangers on loan until the end of the season.
The midfielder arrived at Wolves, originally on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, in March 2005 and he signed for the club on a free transfer from White Hart Lane that summer.
He has made 23 first team appearances this season but hasn't featured in a first team game since the FA Cup defeat against West Bromwich at the end of January.
The emergency loan runs through until the 6th May but he will not be eligible to play against Wolves when QPR come to Molineux at the end of April.
Speaking of the move, Rohan said: "I'm not figuring at Wolves at the moment and I'll go to Queens Park Rangers with the aim of helping them keep their Championship status.
"But I'll be keeping a close eye on how things are going at Molineux as the season draws to a close." Wolves
WIKIPEDIA
ohan Ricketts (born 22 December 1982 in Clapham, London) is a professional footballer with Wolverhampton Wanderers. A midfielder, he started out with Arsenal, with whom he won the FA Youth Cup in 2000 and 2001. He made one appearance for The Gunners, in the League Cup, against Manchester United, before making the unusual step of joining Arsenal's rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, in 2002. He didn't play a single game in his first season, but was a first-team regular in 2003-04. Tord Grip was impressed with his ability and there was talk of Rohan being called up to the senior squad but soon as Hoddle left, Rohan found his first team opportunities limited despite being named Player of month in August and September for Tottenham. However, the following season, under Jacques Santini and then Martin Jol, he found appearances harder to come by, and had two loan spells, at Coventry City F.C., and then Wolves, linking up with his former manager, Glenn Hoddle. In the summer of 2005 he moved to Molineux on a permanent basis.
As a boy Ricketts supported Manchester United.
Wikipedia
Career Stats
Icons Column
QPR Official Site - RICKETTS IN PROFILE
www.qpr.co.uk looks back at the career of the R's latest loan signing, Rohan Ricketts.
Rohan Ricketts began life in the academy at Highbury, before making the breakthrough into the Gunners side during the 2001/02 season.
His debut came as a substitute in the 4-0 demolition of Manchester United in the Worthington Cup.
He was part of the Arsenal team which won the FA Youth Cup in 2001 and was also an England Under-18, Under-20 and Under-21 international.
Out of contract in the summer of 2002, he made the brave switch to North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer in a bid to break into first team football on a regular basis. Then manager, Glenn Hoddle, gave Rohan a chance to shine in the first team but he fell out of favour following the manager's dismissal.
The midfielder made eight appearances for Tottenham in all competitions during 2004/05 and spent a month on loan at Coventry in October 2004.
He joined Wolves on loan shortly before the transfer deadline in March 2005, linking up again with Hoddle. He impressed during his short stay at Molineux, making seven appearances and scoring one goal.
He was granted a free transfer from White Hart Lane in the summer of 2005 and became Hoddle's first permanent signing as Wolves boss.
Rohan took a regular place in Wolves' team at the start of 2005/06, but an injury sustained in the game at home to Burnley in September saw him sidelined until shortly before Christmas. But he failed to maintain a regular slot in the team after returning and has since falling down the pecking order under current Wanderers' boss Mick McCarthy. QPR
PROFILE/AUTOBIOGRAPHY FROM ICONS
I was born on December 22, 1982, in Clapham, London. I grew up around Clapham and Stockwell, and I still live there with my family. Although it was quite a rough area, growing up there not only taught me about playing football, it also gave me a mental toughness and inner strength that you need to become a pro footballer.
I grew up playing football around the estates, honing my skills and in general having a great time. I look back and think that it was good for me to grow up where I did. I saw a lot of my friends go off the rails and lose sight of what they wanted to do with their lives, but I was strong, and determined to do more with my life. I realised from a young age that if I wanted to be a professional footballer I would have to make sacrifices.
I saw a lot of my friends go off the rails, but I was strong and was determined to do more with my life.
It also helped that I came from a strong family - my dad, an electrician, always pushed me to do as well as I could, and always encouraged me to follow my dream. I grew up surrounded by football; my dad would show me videos of Brazil and Holland from the Sixties and Seventies. I used to love watching Pele and Johan Cruyff. Although I lived in South London, I supported Manchester United. I remember they had some great players - Paul Ince, Brian McClair, Roy Keane and, the best of all, Eric Cantona. I loved watching Cantona play, the way he turned up his collar, and his aura. He was definitely a player that impressed me.
When I first started playing football I would try to copy the styles of the players I saw on videos and on television. I played for my primary school and it was whilst playing in a South London Schools five-a-side tournament that I first got spotted. Six of us from the same schools side were asked to go and train at Arsenal. At the time I was 10 years old.
Once I began training at Arsenal I really felt at home there. Although I received other offers, from clubs such as Chelsea, Wimbledon and West Ham, I was never tempted to leave. Although I was training at Arsenal and enjoying my time there, it wasn't until the age of 14 that I really began to take my football seriously.
One of the coaches at Arsenal was a guy called Neil Banfield, and he first made me realise what I could achieve in football. He spent a lot of time with me helping me develop my footballing skills and also focusing my mind on becoming a footballer. He helped me improve so much that at the age of 14 I was offered a schoolboy contract. I owe a lot to Neil and I have no doubt that he has played a major part in where I am today.
II: WINNING THE FA YOUTH CUP WITH ARSENAL
After signing my schoolboy contract my game continued to improve and at 16 I was offered a two-year full-time contract. This meant that I would be at the Arsenal training centre every day in the pursuit of my dream.
Arsenal, like every other club in the country, run an Under-17 and Under-19 team. I was lucky that everything went so well in my first year at the club that I played predominantly for the Under-19s. This is a great experience because not only does it get you used to playing with boys older and physically stronger than you, it also proves that the coaches have enough faith in your ability as a player. I was never nervous about playing in the older age group, because the way that I look at it, you only get a few chances in football to prove yourself, so you must always be prepared to take them.
Being part of the Under-19s set-up meant that I played in the most prestigious youth competition of all, the FA Youth Cup. Some great players have won this competition, players such as Paul Gascoigne, David Beckham and Ryan Giggs. You only get two chances as a player to win this competition and I was fortunate that in my first year we won it. We played against Coventry in the final and to get my hands on the trophy was a very proud moment for me.
I was also fortunate that while I was at Arsenal I became part of the England youth set-up. This is something I enjoy. I love testing myself against the best young players in Europe and I have been to places like Italy and Israel. International football is great because it tests your technique to the limit and also makes you think more about the game.
In my second year at Arsenal I began playing with the reserves. Again, this was a chance to test myself alongside players who have played for the first team. I have played with the likes of Martin Keown, Edu and Ashley Cole. It is great that the coaches at Arsenal had so much faith in me to put me in the reserves. When people such as Don Howe (Head Youth Coach) and Liam Brady (Head Youth Development Officer) tell you what a good player they think you are, it is a huge boost.
III: TURNING PRO
Being at Arsenal was fantastic. They are one of the best clubs in the world. I watched players like Dennis Bergkamp and Patrick Vieira in training and I learned a lot from them. Dennis is a player who thinks about the game, while Vieira has enormous presence.
To me though, my role-model at the club was Ashley Cole. He is a player who I have played with and is someone who has been at Arsenal from a young age. He has gone right through the Arsenal youth system and into the first team and is a crucial member of the full England squad. He is a great player.
Icons
[Good luck to him. I WAS hoping for a forward...and Gregory himself said a couple of days ago that he would not be making any more loan signings before the deadline!]
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QPR Official Site - RICKETTS SIGNS
Wolverhampton Wanderers attacking midfielder Rohan Ricketts has joined the R's on loan until the end of the season.
The 24 year-old - whose former Clubs include North London duo Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur - will be available for seven of the R's final eight fixtures of the season.
Ricketts - who under the terms of his loan switch will not feature against Mick McCarthy's side at Molineux in the R's penultimate fixture of the season - will wear the number 34 shirt.
Gaffer John Gregory - who beat the Football League loan deadline by minutes to swoop for the versatile midfielder - expressed his delight at the move, telling www.qpr.co.uk: "It's a good deal for both QPR and Rohan.
"He's a decent footballer, with a good pair of legs and he'll be a useful addition to the squad between now and the end of the season.
"He's out of favour at the moment at Wolves, but I've always liked the look of him as a footballer and it's a great opportunity for him.''
Gregory continued: "I've not guaranteed him anything, but he's here for six weeks with the opportunity to help us out at any given stage should we lose one or two due to injury.
"He can play anywhere across the midfield and has experience of playing up-front too. He's one of those players who is capable of turning the game on its head when it's required.''QPR
WOLVES OFFICIAL SITE - Midfielder Out On Loan
Rohan Ricketts has joined Queens Park Rangers on loan until the end of the season.
The midfielder arrived at Wolves, originally on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, in March 2005 and he signed for the club on a free transfer from White Hart Lane that summer.
He has made 23 first team appearances this season but hasn't featured in a first team game since the FA Cup defeat against West Bromwich at the end of January.
The emergency loan runs through until the 6th May but he will not be eligible to play against Wolves when QPR come to Molineux at the end of April.
Speaking of the move, Rohan said: "I'm not figuring at Wolves at the moment and I'll go to Queens Park Rangers with the aim of helping them keep their Championship status.
"But I'll be keeping a close eye on how things are going at Molineux as the season draws to a close." Wolves
WIKIPEDIA
ohan Ricketts (born 22 December 1982 in Clapham, London) is a professional footballer with Wolverhampton Wanderers. A midfielder, he started out with Arsenal, with whom he won the FA Youth Cup in 2000 and 2001. He made one appearance for The Gunners, in the League Cup, against Manchester United, before making the unusual step of joining Arsenal's rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, in 2002. He didn't play a single game in his first season, but was a first-team regular in 2003-04. Tord Grip was impressed with his ability and there was talk of Rohan being called up to the senior squad but soon as Hoddle left, Rohan found his first team opportunities limited despite being named Player of month in August and September for Tottenham. However, the following season, under Jacques Santini and then Martin Jol, he found appearances harder to come by, and had two loan spells, at Coventry City F.C., and then Wolves, linking up with his former manager, Glenn Hoddle. In the summer of 2005 he moved to Molineux on a permanent basis.
As a boy Ricketts supported Manchester United.
Wikipedia
Career Stats
Icons Column
QPR Official Site - RICKETTS IN PROFILE
www.qpr.co.uk looks back at the career of the R's latest loan signing, Rohan Ricketts.
Rohan Ricketts began life in the academy at Highbury, before making the breakthrough into the Gunners side during the 2001/02 season.
His debut came as a substitute in the 4-0 demolition of Manchester United in the Worthington Cup.
He was part of the Arsenal team which won the FA Youth Cup in 2001 and was also an England Under-18, Under-20 and Under-21 international.
Out of contract in the summer of 2002, he made the brave switch to North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer in a bid to break into first team football on a regular basis. Then manager, Glenn Hoddle, gave Rohan a chance to shine in the first team but he fell out of favour following the manager's dismissal.
The midfielder made eight appearances for Tottenham in all competitions during 2004/05 and spent a month on loan at Coventry in October 2004.
He joined Wolves on loan shortly before the transfer deadline in March 2005, linking up again with Hoddle. He impressed during his short stay at Molineux, making seven appearances and scoring one goal.
He was granted a free transfer from White Hart Lane in the summer of 2005 and became Hoddle's first permanent signing as Wolves boss.
Rohan took a regular place in Wolves' team at the start of 2005/06, but an injury sustained in the game at home to Burnley in September saw him sidelined until shortly before Christmas. But he failed to maintain a regular slot in the team after returning and has since falling down the pecking order under current Wanderers' boss Mick McCarthy. QPR
PROFILE/AUTOBIOGRAPHY FROM ICONS
I was born on December 22, 1982, in Clapham, London. I grew up around Clapham and Stockwell, and I still live there with my family. Although it was quite a rough area, growing up there not only taught me about playing football, it also gave me a mental toughness and inner strength that you need to become a pro footballer.
I grew up playing football around the estates, honing my skills and in general having a great time. I look back and think that it was good for me to grow up where I did. I saw a lot of my friends go off the rails and lose sight of what they wanted to do with their lives, but I was strong, and determined to do more with my life. I realised from a young age that if I wanted to be a professional footballer I would have to make sacrifices.
I saw a lot of my friends go off the rails, but I was strong and was determined to do more with my life.
It also helped that I came from a strong family - my dad, an electrician, always pushed me to do as well as I could, and always encouraged me to follow my dream. I grew up surrounded by football; my dad would show me videos of Brazil and Holland from the Sixties and Seventies. I used to love watching Pele and Johan Cruyff. Although I lived in South London, I supported Manchester United. I remember they had some great players - Paul Ince, Brian McClair, Roy Keane and, the best of all, Eric Cantona. I loved watching Cantona play, the way he turned up his collar, and his aura. He was definitely a player that impressed me.
When I first started playing football I would try to copy the styles of the players I saw on videos and on television. I played for my primary school and it was whilst playing in a South London Schools five-a-side tournament that I first got spotted. Six of us from the same schools side were asked to go and train at Arsenal. At the time I was 10 years old.
Once I began training at Arsenal I really felt at home there. Although I received other offers, from clubs such as Chelsea, Wimbledon and West Ham, I was never tempted to leave. Although I was training at Arsenal and enjoying my time there, it wasn't until the age of 14 that I really began to take my football seriously.
One of the coaches at Arsenal was a guy called Neil Banfield, and he first made me realise what I could achieve in football. He spent a lot of time with me helping me develop my footballing skills and also focusing my mind on becoming a footballer. He helped me improve so much that at the age of 14 I was offered a schoolboy contract. I owe a lot to Neil and I have no doubt that he has played a major part in where I am today.
II: WINNING THE FA YOUTH CUP WITH ARSENAL
After signing my schoolboy contract my game continued to improve and at 16 I was offered a two-year full-time contract. This meant that I would be at the Arsenal training centre every day in the pursuit of my dream.
Arsenal, like every other club in the country, run an Under-17 and Under-19 team. I was lucky that everything went so well in my first year at the club that I played predominantly for the Under-19s. This is a great experience because not only does it get you used to playing with boys older and physically stronger than you, it also proves that the coaches have enough faith in your ability as a player. I was never nervous about playing in the older age group, because the way that I look at it, you only get a few chances in football to prove yourself, so you must always be prepared to take them.
Being part of the Under-19s set-up meant that I played in the most prestigious youth competition of all, the FA Youth Cup. Some great players have won this competition, players such as Paul Gascoigne, David Beckham and Ryan Giggs. You only get two chances as a player to win this competition and I was fortunate that in my first year we won it. We played against Coventry in the final and to get my hands on the trophy was a very proud moment for me.
I was also fortunate that while I was at Arsenal I became part of the England youth set-up. This is something I enjoy. I love testing myself against the best young players in Europe and I have been to places like Italy and Israel. International football is great because it tests your technique to the limit and also makes you think more about the game.
In my second year at Arsenal I began playing with the reserves. Again, this was a chance to test myself alongside players who have played for the first team. I have played with the likes of Martin Keown, Edu and Ashley Cole. It is great that the coaches at Arsenal had so much faith in me to put me in the reserves. When people such as Don Howe (Head Youth Coach) and Liam Brady (Head Youth Development Officer) tell you what a good player they think you are, it is a huge boost.
III: TURNING PRO
Being at Arsenal was fantastic. They are one of the best clubs in the world. I watched players like Dennis Bergkamp and Patrick Vieira in training and I learned a lot from them. Dennis is a player who thinks about the game, while Vieira has enormous presence.
To me though, my role-model at the club was Ashley Cole. He is a player who I have played with and is someone who has been at Arsenal from a young age. He has gone right through the Arsenal youth system and into the first team and is a crucial member of the full England squad. He is a great player.
Icons
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Warren Neil Finally Listed on The Club's Site
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A couple of weeks after Warren Neil's coaching assistance was reported on the boards and then in the local press; and a few days after manager John Gregory finally made reference to it in some statements...Warren Neil has now been added to the club directory. (Meanwhile the suspended Richard Hill and Tony Roberts, who it was reported had been suspended (or departed) remain listed as coaches)
Official Site -First Team Coaching Staff
Manager - John Gregory
Coach - Richard Hill & Warren Neill
Sports Performance Manager - Joe Dunbar
Goalkeeper Coach - Tony Roberts
Official Site
From March 19 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE - A HELPING HAND
The Club can confirm that former R's defender Warren Neill is currently assisting Manager John Gregory.
However, contrary to reports in today's national press, Neill is only working on a part-time basis and has not replaced assistant manager Richard Hill.
Hill is currently suspended by the Club, pending an on-going internal enquiry into his involvement in the behind-closed-doors friendly against the Chinese Olympic team on February 9th.
Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk: "Warren is doing an old friend a favour for the time being.
"He's a very experienced guy and is QPR through and through. He spent three years here as our Assistant Academy Director and is certainly no stranger to coaching on the training ground. The situation regarding Richard Hill hasn't changed.''
Neill, 44, is a former Rangers team-mate of Gregory and a lifelong fan of the club. He was an apprentice at Loftus Road before making 224 appearances for the Rs between 1980 and 1988.
He played in the 1982 FA Cup final replay against Tottenham and the Milk Cup Final against Oxford four years later.
Neill moved to Portsmouth and had a brief spell at Watford, before returning to QPR as a coach after his playing career ended. QPR
Last week: Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times on Warren Neil
JG turns to an old mate
WARREN Neill has no plans for a permanent return to QPR - despite answering John Gregory's SOS call to assist him on the training ground.
The former Rangers full-back has stepped into the breach left by the suspension of Gregory's right-hand man Richard Hill and will assume coaching duties on a short-term basis.
Neill was previously manager of QPR's successful under-19 team until the club's slide into administration - and subsequent downgrading from Academy status - cost him his job.
But Neill, who works as a London taxi driver, said: "Obviously I'll be doing something different for the next few weeks, but it's just until the end of the season.
"I've known John for along time and basically I'm just helping out a friend, simple as that. If anything happens after the end of the season, I'll think about it then."
Neill's sentiments are highly reminiscent of those voiced by another of his former QPR team-mates, Alan McDonald, when he returned to assist Gary Waddock just over a year ago.
McDonald stayed on as assistant manager when Waddock landed the top job - but was sacked, ironically to make way for Hill, after Gregory took over the hotseat in September.
Hill was suspended following an investigation into the punch-up between QPR staff and the Chinese Olympic team last month and is facing an FA charge of violent conduct.
He was also questioned by police on suspicion of actual bodily harm and, although no charges have been brought against Hill, he is highly unlikely to return to his role at Loftus Road.
Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini wants Gregory to sign a new two-year contract when his initial deal runs out, but has made it clear that no such offer will be made to Hill.
If Gregory has to appoint a new assistant, 44-year-old Neill - a veteran of more than 200 appearances in the blue and white hoops - could fit the bill.
The Acton-born right-back emerged through the ranks and made a real impact on the Rs' first team during their run to the FA Cup final of 1982, featuring in the replay against Tottenham.
He was also a key member of the side that lifted the Division Two title a year later, qualified for the UEFA Cup and also reached the Milk Cup final in 1986.
Moving to Portsmouth in 1988, he was briefly reunited with Gregory - taking his first step in management at Fratton Park - and spent another eight years on the south coast.
After finishing his career with Watford, Neill moved into coaching and led Rangers' under-19 side to the national championship final in 2001, only to be axed that summer.
But he was back in the dugout alongside Gregory for last Saturday's 1-1 draw against Sheffield Wednesday, a game which saw Spanish playmaker Inigo Idiakez make his debut after signing on loan from Southampton...." Kilburn Times
Also reported last week by Dave McIntyre: Warren Neill back in the Fold -Ex defender fills the void left by departure of assistant manager - By David McIntyre/Essex Gazette
Former QPR defender Warren Neill has joined manager John Gregory's backroom team.
Neill will help Gregory until the end of the season after assistant boss Richard Hill was axed following the brawl between a QPR reserve side and the Chinese Olympic team last month.
Hill will not face police charges having been arrested after the incident, but he will face an FA charge of violent conduct and chairman Gianni Paladini does not want him back at Loftus Road.
Neill, 44, is a former Rangers team-mate of Gregory and a lifelong fan of the club.
He was an apprentice at Loftus Road before making 224 appearances for the Rs between 1980 and 1988.
He played in the 1982 FA Cup final replay against Tottenham and the Milk Cup final against Oxford four years later.
Neill moved to Portsmouth and had a brief spell at Watford before returning to QPR as a coach after his playing career ended.
He was the academy director before losing his job after Rangers went into administration in 2001. Gazette
A couple of weeks after Warren Neil's coaching assistance was reported on the boards and then in the local press; and a few days after manager John Gregory finally made reference to it in some statements...Warren Neil has now been added to the club directory. (Meanwhile the suspended Richard Hill and Tony Roberts, who it was reported had been suspended (or departed) remain listed as coaches)
Official Site -First Team Coaching Staff
Manager - John Gregory
Coach - Richard Hill & Warren Neill
Sports Performance Manager - Joe Dunbar
Goalkeeper Coach - Tony Roberts
Official Site
From March 19 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE - A HELPING HAND
The Club can confirm that former R's defender Warren Neill is currently assisting Manager John Gregory.
However, contrary to reports in today's national press, Neill is only working on a part-time basis and has not replaced assistant manager Richard Hill.
Hill is currently suspended by the Club, pending an on-going internal enquiry into his involvement in the behind-closed-doors friendly against the Chinese Olympic team on February 9th.
Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk: "Warren is doing an old friend a favour for the time being.
"He's a very experienced guy and is QPR through and through. He spent three years here as our Assistant Academy Director and is certainly no stranger to coaching on the training ground. The situation regarding Richard Hill hasn't changed.''
Neill, 44, is a former Rangers team-mate of Gregory and a lifelong fan of the club. He was an apprentice at Loftus Road before making 224 appearances for the Rs between 1980 and 1988.
He played in the 1982 FA Cup final replay against Tottenham and the Milk Cup Final against Oxford four years later.
Neill moved to Portsmouth and had a brief spell at Watford, before returning to QPR as a coach after his playing career ended. QPR
Last week: Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times on Warren Neil
JG turns to an old mate
WARREN Neill has no plans for a permanent return to QPR - despite answering John Gregory's SOS call to assist him on the training ground.
The former Rangers full-back has stepped into the breach left by the suspension of Gregory's right-hand man Richard Hill and will assume coaching duties on a short-term basis.
Neill was previously manager of QPR's successful under-19 team until the club's slide into administration - and subsequent downgrading from Academy status - cost him his job.
But Neill, who works as a London taxi driver, said: "Obviously I'll be doing something different for the next few weeks, but it's just until the end of the season.
"I've known John for along time and basically I'm just helping out a friend, simple as that. If anything happens after the end of the season, I'll think about it then."
Neill's sentiments are highly reminiscent of those voiced by another of his former QPR team-mates, Alan McDonald, when he returned to assist Gary Waddock just over a year ago.
McDonald stayed on as assistant manager when Waddock landed the top job - but was sacked, ironically to make way for Hill, after Gregory took over the hotseat in September.
Hill was suspended following an investigation into the punch-up between QPR staff and the Chinese Olympic team last month and is facing an FA charge of violent conduct.
He was also questioned by police on suspicion of actual bodily harm and, although no charges have been brought against Hill, he is highly unlikely to return to his role at Loftus Road.
Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini wants Gregory to sign a new two-year contract when his initial deal runs out, but has made it clear that no such offer will be made to Hill.
If Gregory has to appoint a new assistant, 44-year-old Neill - a veteran of more than 200 appearances in the blue and white hoops - could fit the bill.
The Acton-born right-back emerged through the ranks and made a real impact on the Rs' first team during their run to the FA Cup final of 1982, featuring in the replay against Tottenham.
He was also a key member of the side that lifted the Division Two title a year later, qualified for the UEFA Cup and also reached the Milk Cup final in 1986.
Moving to Portsmouth in 1988, he was briefly reunited with Gregory - taking his first step in management at Fratton Park - and spent another eight years on the south coast.
After finishing his career with Watford, Neill moved into coaching and led Rangers' under-19 side to the national championship final in 2001, only to be axed that summer.
But he was back in the dugout alongside Gregory for last Saturday's 1-1 draw against Sheffield Wednesday, a game which saw Spanish playmaker Inigo Idiakez make his debut after signing on loan from Southampton...." Kilburn Times
Also reported last week by Dave McIntyre: Warren Neill back in the Fold -Ex defender fills the void left by departure of assistant manager - By David McIntyre/Essex Gazette
Former QPR defender Warren Neill has joined manager John Gregory's backroom team.
Neill will help Gregory until the end of the season after assistant boss Richard Hill was axed following the brawl between a QPR reserve side and the Chinese Olympic team last month.
Hill will not face police charges having been arrested after the incident, but he will face an FA charge of violent conduct and chairman Gianni Paladini does not want him back at Loftus Road.
Neill, 44, is a former Rangers team-mate of Gregory and a lifelong fan of the club.
He was an apprentice at Loftus Road before making 224 appearances for the Rs between 1980 and 1988.
He played in the 1982 FA Cup final replay against Tottenham and the Milk Cup final against Oxford four years later.
Neill moved to Portsmouth and had a brief spell at Watford before returning to QPR as a coach after his playing career ended.
He was the academy director before losing his job after Rangers went into administration in 2001. Gazette
Ex-QPR Birthdays: Mike Keen and Gary Micklewhite
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Today's "QPR Birthday:" - Gary Micklewhite, turning 46. And a slightly belated birthday to 1967 Hero and Captain, Mike Keen, whose birthday was a couple of days ago (sharing that date with Roy Wegerle and Andy Sinton). Keen turned 67 .
Keen made more than 400 QPR appearances from 1959 to 1968/1969, midfielder/winghalf and Captain, Mike Keen. Captained QPR from 3rd to 1st Division and in the League Cup Final.
Keen was probably not very well treated by QPR at the end. He was sold to Alec Stock's Luton when we were in our Relegation Fight...and Keen then proceeded to lead Luton to promotion out of Division 3 (and returned to Loftus Road with Luton in 1970/71, scoring the winning goal!). Keen then joined Watford. Managed Watford and Northampton and then-non-League Wycombe,. Was briefly a coach at QPR when Frank Sibley was manager. His son played for West Ham and Wolves. Keen was recently back at Loftus Road with several members of the 1967 squad.
From Sunday Times, April 6 2003 "Where are they now"
"Mike Keen - One of the old school of half-backs Keen was a skilful player who enjoyed delivering long passes, and he was a strong, clinical tackler. He was a QPR stalwart who joined the club in 1958, and played in 393 League matches. After a change of managers, he moved to Luton before finishing his playing career at Watford. He was appointed manager at Vicarage Road and enjoyed four years at the club, where he set about engendering the spirit he had experienced as a player at Loftus Road. He managed Northampton for a year before taking charge of Wycombe part-time and then Marlow while he concentrated on running Sport and Ski, a shop in Wycombe. He lives in Flackwell Heath in Buckinghamshire, and is manager of a shop in Oxfordshire that sells outdoor gear and ski equipment." Paper
See Also:
Photo (Front row, sitting next to Chairman, Jim Gregory) - Photo
Also: Wycombe Profile
GARY MICKLEWHITE
Micklewhite was signed from Manchester United on a free transfer by Tommy Docherty but was given his chance by Terry Venables. Micklewhite was a substitute for Clive Allen in the FA Cup Final and played in the replay. He got the last-minute 5th goal in QPR's magical 5-5 draw against Newcastle in 1984-1985.
FROM WYCOMBE Fan Site -Gary Micklewhite in Profile
Born: Southwark 21 March 1961
Playing Career:Manchester United March 1978-May 1979 (apprentice)QPR July 1979-Feb 1985 127 apps-17 goalsDerby County Feb 1985-May 1993 288 apps-43 goalsGillingham July 1993-May 1996 113 apps-4 goals
Gary Micklewhite came to Wycombe at the start of the 1998/99 season as Assistant to Neil Smillie. He had spent the previous two seasons as Youth Team Manager at QPR and was a team-mate of Neil Smillie during his final playing years at Gillingham.
Micklewhite began his professional football at Old Trafford under the reigns of Tommy Docherty but he never made the first team. Then in the summer of 1979, with Docherty now at QPR, he arrived on a free and began a succesful spell at Loftus Road. In 1982 he appeared in both games against Spurs in the FA Cup Final at Wembley - playing in midfield alongside former Wycombe Manager John Gregory. A year later he gained a Division Two Championship with Rangers. A £90,000 move to Derby County in 1985 began an eight year spell at The Baseball Ground before his move to Gillingham. Wycombe
Today's "QPR Birthday:" - Gary Micklewhite, turning 46. And a slightly belated birthday to 1967 Hero and Captain, Mike Keen, whose birthday was a couple of days ago (sharing that date with Roy Wegerle and Andy Sinton). Keen turned 67 .
Keen made more than 400 QPR appearances from 1959 to 1968/1969, midfielder/winghalf and Captain, Mike Keen. Captained QPR from 3rd to 1st Division and in the League Cup Final.
Keen was probably not very well treated by QPR at the end. He was sold to Alec Stock's Luton when we were in our Relegation Fight...and Keen then proceeded to lead Luton to promotion out of Division 3 (and returned to Loftus Road with Luton in 1970/71, scoring the winning goal!). Keen then joined Watford. Managed Watford and Northampton and then-non-League Wycombe,. Was briefly a coach at QPR when Frank Sibley was manager. His son played for West Ham and Wolves. Keen was recently back at Loftus Road with several members of the 1967 squad.
From Sunday Times, April 6 2003 "Where are they now"
"Mike Keen - One of the old school of half-backs Keen was a skilful player who enjoyed delivering long passes, and he was a strong, clinical tackler. He was a QPR stalwart who joined the club in 1958, and played in 393 League matches. After a change of managers, he moved to Luton before finishing his playing career at Watford. He was appointed manager at Vicarage Road and enjoyed four years at the club, where he set about engendering the spirit he had experienced as a player at Loftus Road. He managed Northampton for a year before taking charge of Wycombe part-time and then Marlow while he concentrated on running Sport and Ski, a shop in Wycombe. He lives in Flackwell Heath in Buckinghamshire, and is manager of a shop in Oxfordshire that sells outdoor gear and ski equipment." Paper
See Also:
Photo (Front row, sitting next to Chairman, Jim Gregory) - Photo
Also: Wycombe Profile
GARY MICKLEWHITE
Micklewhite was signed from Manchester United on a free transfer by Tommy Docherty but was given his chance by Terry Venables. Micklewhite was a substitute for Clive Allen in the FA Cup Final and played in the replay. He got the last-minute 5th goal in QPR's magical 5-5 draw against Newcastle in 1984-1985.
FROM WYCOMBE Fan Site -Gary Micklewhite in Profile
Born: Southwark 21 March 1961
Playing Career:Manchester United March 1978-May 1979 (apprentice)QPR July 1979-Feb 1985 127 apps-17 goalsDerby County Feb 1985-May 1993 288 apps-43 goalsGillingham July 1993-May 1996 113 apps-4 goals
Gary Micklewhite came to Wycombe at the start of the 1998/99 season as Assistant to Neil Smillie. He had spent the previous two seasons as Youth Team Manager at QPR and was a team-mate of Neil Smillie during his final playing years at Gillingham.
Micklewhite began his professional football at Old Trafford under the reigns of Tommy Docherty but he never made the first team. Then in the summer of 1979, with Docherty now at QPR, he arrived on a free and began a succesful spell at Loftus Road. In 1982 he appeared in both games against Spurs in the FA Cup Final at Wembley - playing in midfield alongside former Wycombe Manager John Gregory. A year later he gained a Division Two Championship with Rangers. A £90,000 move to Derby County in 1985 began an eight year spell at The Baseball Ground before his move to Gillingham. Wycombe
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
No Loan Striker Coming...Paladini Denies Any Loftus Road Sale
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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - 20 March 2007
No more Ins after Inigo
Inigo Idiakez will be QPR's last signing before the end of the season
QPR manager John Gregory is not planning any further additions to his squad ahead of tomorrow's Football League loan transfer deadline.
The Rs had been struggling for goals until last weekend's 3-1 victory at Leicester, but Gregory does not anticipate any last-minute attempts to increase his front line options.
He told the Times: "It'd be difficult for us to bring in a loan signing who could slide into the team effortlessly, so I think that's going to be it until the end of the season.
"Anyone who's got a striker isn't going to let him go at this stage of the season, so we'll see how we go with the four who are battling for places at the moment."
The first of Rangers' three goals at the Walkers Stadium came from Inigo Idiakez, the midfield playmaker who is on loan from Southampton until Easter.
And Gregory confirmed that he will discuss the possibility of extending that arrangement with Saints manager George Burley around the end of next week.
"The option's there for Southampton to take him back after 28 days," said the Rangers boss. "It helps Inigo to be playing and getting match fitness and if they need him to go back he'll be up to speed.
"They've got a chance of going into the play-offs, so he could play some part in that if necessary. But he could also help take points off their promotion rivals while he's with us.
"That was part of my selling plan to George. I'll probably discuss it with him a week or so before the loan ends and see what he wants to do."
The Spanish midfield star, 33, only moved to Southampton at the start of this season following two successful years with Derby, where he played alongside current QPR team-mates Adam Bolder, Lee Camp and Dexter Blackstock.
CHAIRMAN Gianni Paladini has firmly denied internet rumours that the club have agreed the £24m sale of Loftus Road to clear their debts.
Stories circulating on supporters' messageboards last week reported that Rangers would have to quit Loftus Road in 2009 and share with neighbours Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Proceeds from the sale, according to the report, would then be used to pay off debts and finance construction of a new stadium on the Dairycrest site at nearby Scrubs Lane.
The Dairycrest option was considered by potential investors around six years ago, but Paladini insisted there was no such plan in the offing now.
He said: "There's nothing at all in this story - it's a load of nonsense. Loftus Road is our home and there's no way in the world we are moving anywhere. Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - 20 March 2007
No more Ins after Inigo
Inigo Idiakez will be QPR's last signing before the end of the season
QPR manager John Gregory is not planning any further additions to his squad ahead of tomorrow's Football League loan transfer deadline.
The Rs had been struggling for goals until last weekend's 3-1 victory at Leicester, but Gregory does not anticipate any last-minute attempts to increase his front line options.
He told the Times: "It'd be difficult for us to bring in a loan signing who could slide into the team effortlessly, so I think that's going to be it until the end of the season.
"Anyone who's got a striker isn't going to let him go at this stage of the season, so we'll see how we go with the four who are battling for places at the moment."
The first of Rangers' three goals at the Walkers Stadium came from Inigo Idiakez, the midfield playmaker who is on loan from Southampton until Easter.
And Gregory confirmed that he will discuss the possibility of extending that arrangement with Saints manager George Burley around the end of next week.
"The option's there for Southampton to take him back after 28 days," said the Rangers boss. "It helps Inigo to be playing and getting match fitness and if they need him to go back he'll be up to speed.
"They've got a chance of going into the play-offs, so he could play some part in that if necessary. But he could also help take points off their promotion rivals while he's with us.
"That was part of my selling plan to George. I'll probably discuss it with him a week or so before the loan ends and see what he wants to do."
The Spanish midfield star, 33, only moved to Southampton at the start of this season following two successful years with Derby, where he played alongside current QPR team-mates Adam Bolder, Lee Camp and Dexter Blackstock.
CHAIRMAN Gianni Paladini has firmly denied internet rumours that the club have agreed the £24m sale of Loftus Road to clear their debts.
Stories circulating on supporters' messageboards last week reported that Rangers would have to quit Loftus Road in 2009 and share with neighbours Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Proceeds from the sale, according to the report, would then be used to pay off debts and finance construction of a new stadium on the Dairycrest site at nearby Scrubs Lane.
The Dairycrest option was considered by potential investors around six years ago, but Paladini insisted there was no such plan in the offing now.
He said: "There's nothing at all in this story - it's a load of nonsense. Loftus Road is our home and there's no way in the world we are moving anywhere. Kilburn Times
25 Years Ago Today: Yet Another Clive Allen Hattrick
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Twenty-Five Years Ago Today: March 20, 1982:
Terry Venables Promotion Chasing/FA Cup Winning (just failed on both) team crushed Charlton 4-0 with (another!) hatrick from Clive Allen and one from Terry Fenwick. (A few weeks after this victory, QPR crushed Bolton 7-1!)
QPR's team that day against Charlton: QPR's present manager, John Gregory was absent - as was QPR's previous manager, Gary Waddock. But QPR's current acting assistant, Warren Neil did play in that game.
Hucker
Gillard Roeder Hazell Newil
Flangan Fenwick CurrieMikclewhite
Stainrod Allen
Sub Burke
Twenty-Five Years Ago Today: March 20, 1982:
Terry Venables Promotion Chasing/FA Cup Winning (just failed on both) team crushed Charlton 4-0 with (another!) hatrick from Clive Allen and one from Terry Fenwick. (A few weeks after this victory, QPR crushed Bolton 7-1!)
QPR's team that day against Charlton: QPR's present manager, John Gregory was absent - as was QPR's previous manager, Gary Waddock. But QPR's current acting assistant, Warren Neil did play in that game.
Hucker
Gillard Roeder Hazell Newil
Flangan Fenwick CurrieMikclewhite
Stainrod Allen
Sub Burke
Marking Six Months Since John Gregory Took Over at QPR
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Today marks the half-Year mark since John Gregory replaced Gary Waddock as QPR manager. (Initially Waddock was said to be be staying as Gregory's assistant)
Gregory came in after 8 games, including final losses at Colchester in the Championship and Port Vale in the League Cup.
Waddock's record this season was Played 8. 1 win - 3 draws and 4 losses
[His record since taking over last season: 3 wins in 22 games. One win in the past 19 games. (In his 14 games at the end of 2005/06, QPR had 2 wins, 5 draws, 7 losses - and those 2 wins coming in Waddock's first 3 games in charge)
This Season under Waddock - Played 8: 1 Win. 3 Draws. 4 Losses - 6 points points
L - Burnley 2-0 QPR
D - QPR 2-2 Leeds
W - QPR 2-0
D - Preston 1-1 QPR
L - QPR 1-3 Ipswich
D - Plymouth 1-1 QPR
L - QPR 0-2 Birmingham
L - Colchester 2-1 QPR
In addition to the results, there were a number of players who were signed in the summer, many of them have since moved on. The degree to which Waddock was fully responsible for those signings is unclear.
Gregory's record thus far: Played 30 - 9 wins - 7 Draws - 14 losses- 34 Points (There have been a number of good loan signings under Gregory)
[See Waddock's Managerial Record - Record]
September 20, 2006 - OFFICIAL SITE - GREGORY APPOINTED
John Gregory has been appointed as QPR First Team Manager with immediate effect.
Gary Waddock will now work under the former Aston Villa boss in an Assistant Manager's role.
In an exclusive interview with www.qpr.co.uk, Chairman Gianni Paladini revealed his delight at the appointment: "It's a fantastic scoop for the Club.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to get back in to the managerial game.
"He's sat down with Gary and talked everything through and the situation is perfect as we look to climb the Championship table.
"I'd like to wish the pair of them the very best in their new roles.''
Gregory - who has been out of the game since leaving Derby County in 2003 - commented: "I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
Waddock said: "It's the right decision for the club, I'm just thankful that Gianni thinks enough of me to keep me here as Assistant Manager.
"I look forward to working with John, we both played together under Terry Venables and have the same work ethic.
"I'll learn a lot from him and I'm sure that this appointment will benefit the club I love."
BBC - Gregory appointed as new QPR boss
Gregory makes his return after three-and-a-half years
Queens Park Rangers have unveiled John Gregory as their new manager, with former boss Gary Waddock handed the job of first-team coach.
Former Aston Villa boss Gregory, 51, returns to management three-and-a-half years after leaving Derby.
Waddock replaced the sacked Ian Holloway in February and was handed the position full-time in the summer.
But the former QPR midfielder has struggled and Gregory takes over with the club bottom of the Championship.
QPR have won just one league game this season and were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Port Vale on Tuesday evening.
Gregory, a close friend of Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini, began his managerial career at Portsmouth and he also had a spell at Plymouth.
He took over at Wycombe Wanderers in October 1996, where he helped the team avoid relegation and remained in charge for two years.
The former England midfielder took over at Villa in the 1997/98 season and during the four years under Gregory's management Villa never finished outside the top eight in the Premiership.
He has also managed Derby and has been out of management since leaving the Rams in March 2003.
SKY SPORTS - Rangers turn to Gregory
Queens Park Rangers have appointed John Gregory as their new manager with Gary Waddock becoming his assistant.
The Rangers board have lost patience with Waddock and have turned to Gregory to try and transform their fortunes.
Rangers have endured a terrible run of form lately, culminating in their 3-2 defeat to Port vale in the Carling Cup on Tuesday.
The Loftus Road outfit are currently languishing at the bottom of The Championship and have won only one league game all term.
Waddock only took charge of Rangers in February after Ian Holloway left the club and was handed the job on a permanent basis in the summer.
Waddock has struggled since taking over and won just four of his 24 games in charge.
Gregory has been out of work since March 2003 after leaving Derby County.
Gregory, who is a former QPR player, will be given the task of helping the side climb out of trouble and he knows he faces a huge challenge.
"I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge," Gregory told the club's official website.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
GUARDIAN -Gregory resurfaces at QPR
New appointment sees Waddock moves to first-team coach
Gregory resurfaces at QPR - Bottom-of-the-Championship QPR think John Gregory is the man to halt their downward slide. Anyone else?
QPR today unveiled John Gregory as their new manager, with former boss Gary Waddock handed the job of first-team coach.
Former Aston Villa and Derby manager Gregory is a close friend of Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini, and takes over with the club bottom of the Championship. The 51-year-old returns to management three-and-a-half years after leaving Derby.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to back into the managerial game," said Paladini. "It's a fantastic scoop for the club."
Waddock replaced Ian Holloway in February and was handed the position full-time in the summer. But the former QPR midfielder has struggled, winning just three league games during his Loftus Park reign, and saw his team knocked out of the Carling Cup by Port Vale last night
TEAMTALK - GREGORY FACT FILE
1954: Born Scunthorpe, May 11.
1970: Joins Northampton as a trainee.
1972: Signs professionally for Northampton and goes on to make 187 league appearances.
1977: Joins Aston Villa for £40,000, making 65 league appearances and scoring 10 goals.
1979: Moves to Brighton for £250,000.
1981: Signs for QPR in a £300,000 deal.
1982: Part of the QPR team who lose in the FA Cup final to Tottenham after a replay.
1983: Wins the first of six full England caps against Australia.
1985: Moves to Derby for £100,000.
1988: Retires and becomes assistant manager to Alan Ball at Portsmouth.
1989: Becomes Pompey manager when Ball is sacked.
1990: Sacked by Portsmouth, who are 23rd in the Second Division after a run of two victories in nine matches. Plays briefly for Plymouth and Bolton on a non-contract basis.
1991: Joins Leicester as coach to Brian Little.
1994: Follows Little to Aston Villa, becoming first team coach.
1996: Appointed manager of Second Division Wycombe after Alan Smith is sacked. Steers side from second bottom to safety.
1998: January - Succeeds Little as manager of Aston Villa.
August - Claims he could have 'shot' Dwight Yorke after striker revealed he wanted to go to Manchester United before his eventual £12.6million move.
2000: Leads Villa to the FA Cup final where they lose 1-0 to Chelsea, Roberto di Matteo scoring the winner.
December - Raps chairman Doug Ellis, claiming his boss is 'stuck in a time warp'. Ellis responds by accusing Gregory of 'talking big but acting small'.
2001: After an eighth-place finish in the Premiership, Gregory guides Villa into the UEFA Cup after a successful Intertoto Cup campaign. The European adventure is brief though as Croatian outsiders Varteks humiliate the former European champions in the first round.
2002: January 24 - Resigns as Villa manager, citing the 'pressures of the job'.
January 30 - Takes over as manager at Derby following the departure of Colin Todd but cannot help the club stave off relegation from the Premiership.
August 10 - The Rams begin the new season in fine style with a 3-0 win over Reading but it does not last with the club spending most of the campaign in the bottom half of the table.
2003: March 21 - Gregory, already under pressure due to the club's poor form, is suspended following allegations that midfielder Craig Burley was mistreated whilst injured.
May 29 - Derby uphold their decision, following appeal by Gregory.
2006: September 20 - Appointed manager of QPR.
See: QPR Report - Gregory Takes Over
See Also re Gregory & QPR:
QPR Report - Gregory Warns of Relegation Fight
QPR Report - Gregory (and Paladini) Comments after First Game
QPR Report
QPR Report - Gregory on Players
QPR Report
QPR Report - Gregory (and Paladini) Fan Forum
QPR Report - Fan Forum Report
QPR Report - Waddock Departs
Today marks the half-Year mark since John Gregory replaced Gary Waddock as QPR manager. (Initially Waddock was said to be be staying as Gregory's assistant)
Gregory came in after 8 games, including final losses at Colchester in the Championship and Port Vale in the League Cup.
Waddock's record this season was Played 8. 1 win - 3 draws and 4 losses
[His record since taking over last season: 3 wins in 22 games. One win in the past 19 games. (In his 14 games at the end of 2005/06, QPR had 2 wins, 5 draws, 7 losses - and those 2 wins coming in Waddock's first 3 games in charge)
This Season under Waddock - Played 8: 1 Win. 3 Draws. 4 Losses - 6 points points
L - Burnley 2-0 QPR
D - QPR 2-2 Leeds
W - QPR 2-0
D - Preston 1-1 QPR
L - QPR 1-3 Ipswich
D - Plymouth 1-1 QPR
L - QPR 0-2 Birmingham
L - Colchester 2-1 QPR
In addition to the results, there were a number of players who were signed in the summer, many of them have since moved on. The degree to which Waddock was fully responsible for those signings is unclear.
Gregory's record thus far: Played 30 - 9 wins - 7 Draws - 14 losses- 34 Points (There have been a number of good loan signings under Gregory)
[See Waddock's Managerial Record - Record]
September 20, 2006 - OFFICIAL SITE - GREGORY APPOINTED
John Gregory has been appointed as QPR First Team Manager with immediate effect.
Gary Waddock will now work under the former Aston Villa boss in an Assistant Manager's role.
In an exclusive interview with www.qpr.co.uk, Chairman Gianni Paladini revealed his delight at the appointment: "It's a fantastic scoop for the Club.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to get back in to the managerial game.
"He's sat down with Gary and talked everything through and the situation is perfect as we look to climb the Championship table.
"I'd like to wish the pair of them the very best in their new roles.''
Gregory - who has been out of the game since leaving Derby County in 2003 - commented: "I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
Waddock said: "It's the right decision for the club, I'm just thankful that Gianni thinks enough of me to keep me here as Assistant Manager.
"I look forward to working with John, we both played together under Terry Venables and have the same work ethic.
"I'll learn a lot from him and I'm sure that this appointment will benefit the club I love."
BBC - Gregory appointed as new QPR boss
Gregory makes his return after three-and-a-half years
Queens Park Rangers have unveiled John Gregory as their new manager, with former boss Gary Waddock handed the job of first-team coach.
Former Aston Villa boss Gregory, 51, returns to management three-and-a-half years after leaving Derby.
Waddock replaced the sacked Ian Holloway in February and was handed the position full-time in the summer.
But the former QPR midfielder has struggled and Gregory takes over with the club bottom of the Championship.
QPR have won just one league game this season and were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Port Vale on Tuesday evening.
Gregory, a close friend of Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini, began his managerial career at Portsmouth and he also had a spell at Plymouth.
He took over at Wycombe Wanderers in October 1996, where he helped the team avoid relegation and remained in charge for two years.
The former England midfielder took over at Villa in the 1997/98 season and during the four years under Gregory's management Villa never finished outside the top eight in the Premiership.
He has also managed Derby and has been out of management since leaving the Rams in March 2003.
SKY SPORTS - Rangers turn to Gregory
Queens Park Rangers have appointed John Gregory as their new manager with Gary Waddock becoming his assistant.
The Rangers board have lost patience with Waddock and have turned to Gregory to try and transform their fortunes.
Rangers have endured a terrible run of form lately, culminating in their 3-2 defeat to Port vale in the Carling Cup on Tuesday.
The Loftus Road outfit are currently languishing at the bottom of The Championship and have won only one league game all term.
Waddock only took charge of Rangers in February after Ian Holloway left the club and was handed the job on a permanent basis in the summer.
Waddock has struggled since taking over and won just four of his 24 games in charge.
Gregory has been out of work since March 2003 after leaving Derby County.
Gregory, who is a former QPR player, will be given the task of helping the side climb out of trouble and he knows he faces a huge challenge.
"I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge," Gregory told the club's official website.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
GUARDIAN -Gregory resurfaces at QPR
New appointment sees Waddock moves to first-team coach
Gregory resurfaces at QPR - Bottom-of-the-Championship QPR think John Gregory is the man to halt their downward slide. Anyone else?
QPR today unveiled John Gregory as their new manager, with former boss Gary Waddock handed the job of first-team coach.
Former Aston Villa and Derby manager Gregory is a close friend of Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini, and takes over with the club bottom of the Championship. The 51-year-old returns to management three-and-a-half years after leaving Derby.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to back into the managerial game," said Paladini. "It's a fantastic scoop for the club."
Waddock replaced Ian Holloway in February and was handed the position full-time in the summer. But the former QPR midfielder has struggled, winning just three league games during his Loftus Park reign, and saw his team knocked out of the Carling Cup by Port Vale last night
TEAMTALK - GREGORY FACT FILE
1954: Born Scunthorpe, May 11.
1970: Joins Northampton as a trainee.
1972: Signs professionally for Northampton and goes on to make 187 league appearances.
1977: Joins Aston Villa for £40,000, making 65 league appearances and scoring 10 goals.
1979: Moves to Brighton for £250,000.
1981: Signs for QPR in a £300,000 deal.
1982: Part of the QPR team who lose in the FA Cup final to Tottenham after a replay.
1983: Wins the first of six full England caps against Australia.
1985: Moves to Derby for £100,000.
1988: Retires and becomes assistant manager to Alan Ball at Portsmouth.
1989: Becomes Pompey manager when Ball is sacked.
1990: Sacked by Portsmouth, who are 23rd in the Second Division after a run of two victories in nine matches. Plays briefly for Plymouth and Bolton on a non-contract basis.
1991: Joins Leicester as coach to Brian Little.
1994: Follows Little to Aston Villa, becoming first team coach.
1996: Appointed manager of Second Division Wycombe after Alan Smith is sacked. Steers side from second bottom to safety.
1998: January - Succeeds Little as manager of Aston Villa.
August - Claims he could have 'shot' Dwight Yorke after striker revealed he wanted to go to Manchester United before his eventual £12.6million move.
2000: Leads Villa to the FA Cup final where they lose 1-0 to Chelsea, Roberto di Matteo scoring the winner.
December - Raps chairman Doug Ellis, claiming his boss is 'stuck in a time warp'. Ellis responds by accusing Gregory of 'talking big but acting small'.
2001: After an eighth-place finish in the Premiership, Gregory guides Villa into the UEFA Cup after a successful Intertoto Cup campaign. The European adventure is brief though as Croatian outsiders Varteks humiliate the former European champions in the first round.
2002: January 24 - Resigns as Villa manager, citing the 'pressures of the job'.
January 30 - Takes over as manager at Derby following the departure of Colin Todd but cannot help the club stave off relegation from the Premiership.
August 10 - The Rams begin the new season in fine style with a 3-0 win over Reading but it does not last with the club spending most of the campaign in the bottom half of the table.
2003: March 21 - Gregory, already under pressure due to the club's poor form, is suspended following allegations that midfielder Craig Burley was mistreated whilst injured.
May 29 - Derby uphold their decision, following appeal by Gregory.
2006: September 20 - Appointed manager of QPR.
See: QPR Report - Gregory Takes Over
See Also re Gregory & QPR:
QPR Report - Gregory Warns of Relegation Fight
QPR Report - Gregory (and Paladini) Comments after First Game
QPR Report
QPR Report - Gregory on Players
QPR Report
QPR Report - Gregory (and Paladini) Fan Forum
QPR Report - Fan Forum Report
QPR Report - Waddock Departs
Monday, March 19, 2007
Chairman Paladini: Commemorating Three Years Since QPR Came into His Life
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Question: What made you want to invest in Queens Park Rangers, even though we are best team in London and the Championship?
Gianni Paladini Answer"I was initially interested in Port Vale but that fell through. I first heard about QPR through my accountant and I went to the game against Wycombe where it was very windy and we came back from 2-0 down. I met Bill Power at the game and I got hooked. The club then asked me to help out and I did. QPR
Question: How have you ended up here then?
Gianni Paladini Answer :"Well I love football you know.....So I've been an agent all my life, and I was living in Lanzarote a few years ago but my daughter had a child and I wanted to spend more time with the family so I moved to Britain and started looking for a football club to get involved with.
I looked at Northampton, Rotherham, Derby County, Burnley and Port Vale. QPR were the last team on the list. There was a good atmosphere here, it's a really good club. I went to the game at High Wycombe in the wind and I thought this was a club I'd like to be involved in. Initially I was only a consultant but I'm not the kind of person that can just sit around and not do anything I like to be here everyday working hard...QPR Rivals QPR
And a match report of Paladini's First QPR Game
Wycombe Wanderers 2 Queens Park Rangers 2 Saturday 20th March 2004
Football League Division Two
Wanderers recorded their ninth draw in eleven games after they threw away a two goal lead to draw with promotion chasing Queens Park Rangers at a windswept Adams Park. In front of the biggest League gate of the season at Adams Park and with the wind behind them, Wanderers scored twice in three first half minutes through Matt Bloomfield and Craig Faulconbridge but things were levelled up after the break as the wind turned the game into a near lottery. Kevin Gallen pulled a goal back a minute after the re-start and then on 68 minutes 'Wanderers reject' Martin Rowlands floated in a cross/shot from the right wing that Steve Williams watched sail over his head and into the back of the net. Danny Senda came closest to winning it for Wycombe when he went close in the 75th minute while Williams made up for his earlier misjudgement when he made late saves to frustrate the large travelling contingent from West London.
Tony Adams made one change to the side that had drew in the week versus Colchester United - a not fully fit Jermaine McSporran dropping to the bench and Danny Senda moving forward to the right of midfield and Mark Rogers returning to the side at right back for his first appearance since Boxing Day.
The effect of the wind was difficult to gauge in the opening stages where Wycombe's best chance came on 7 minutes when Nathan Tyson dragged a shot wide from the left after a good through ball from Michael Simpson. It was Tyson who played a major part in both of Wycombe's goals. First on 26 minutes he raced in on the left side of the penalty but under challenge from Clarke Carlise the ball deflected across the face of the goal where Bloomfield was waiting to convert his first goal in Wycombe shirt. Three minutes later Tyson broke again down the left and this time centred for Faulconbridge to cooly finish for his first goal since February 2003.
Tyson was the centre of attention again three minutes before the break when he fought back to retrieve the ball down the right only for Carlisle to challenge roughly backed up by Marc Bircham. Tyson seemed to react by raising his arms to Carlisle and will probably be grateful for only picking up a yellow card along with the Rangers player.
Half-time Wycombe 2 QPR 0
It was disappointing from Wycombe's point of view to concede so soon after the re-start when Kevin Gallen made the most of poor defending from Wycombe as he was able to take a touch on the right side of goal before finishing past Williams. However, Wanderers almost restored their two goal advantage on 61 minutes when Currie's goalbound free-kick from the left seemed to be headed over by Faulconbridge from inside the Rangers six yard box.
QPR's equaliser will go down as freak goal - Rowlands slung in a cross from the right that swirled and dipped in the wind before nestling in the far corner of the net. Most onlookers would have made QPR favourites to win from this point but Wanderers stuck in there and there was a chance to claim victory when Steve Brown's through ball to Tyson on 75 minutes culminated in Simpson and finally Senda seeing their efforts on goal twarted. At the other Williams made an excellent save from a Gallen free-kick on 82 minutes and with five minutes left on the clock he pushed away another Gallen attempt to earn Wycombe their deserved point and perhaps in more favourable conditions it would have been three.
Final Score - Wycombe 2 QPR 2
Rangers boss Ian Holloway commented on the conditions that had spoiled the game as spectacle, commenting "It was a really surreal day. I've never seen wind affect a football match like that before - not even in my amateur days. It was the most bizarre half time experience of my life. I wanted to scream and shout - but I also didn't think it was necessary. I just knew we'd get back in it.". Meanwhile, Tony Adams said he thought at half time that the two goal lead was not going to be enough bit and was frustrated that Wanderers had conceded straight away after the break. The Wycombe gaffer also didn't concede that his team were relegated "They're giving me everything they've got and as a manager I can't ask for more from them. They haven't thrown the towel in yet and they haven't done since I've been here. We may only have eight games left to avoid the drop but we're going to keep fighting until the last. If we win the last eight games, we'll stay up. Are we going to win the last eight? We'll most definitely try and that's all we can do." Wycombe: Williams, Rogers (sub 87 McSporran), Vinnicombe, Johnson, Nethercott, Senda, Simpson, Currie (sub 77 Philo), Bloomfield, Faulconbridge (sub 63 Brown), Tyson - subs not used: Simpemba, Dixon
Bookings: Tyson (ungentlemanly conduct 42)
Scorers: Bloomfield (26), Faulconbridge (29)
QPR: Camp, Forbes (sub HT Edghill), Carlisle, Gnohere, Rowlands, McLeod (sub 75 Cureton), Bircham (sub 86 Bean), Johnson, Gallen, Thorpe, Furlong - subs not used Day, Palmer
Bookings: Carlisle (foul 42), Bircham (foul 59)
Scorers: Gallen (46), Rowlands (68)
Referee: Martin Atkinson Attendance: 7,634 (1,986 away end) Wycombe
Question: What made you want to invest in Queens Park Rangers, even though we are best team in London and the Championship?
Gianni Paladini Answer"I was initially interested in Port Vale but that fell through. I first heard about QPR through my accountant and I went to the game against Wycombe where it was very windy and we came back from 2-0 down. I met Bill Power at the game and I got hooked. The club then asked me to help out and I did. QPR
Question: How have you ended up here then?
Gianni Paladini Answer :"Well I love football you know.....So I've been an agent all my life, and I was living in Lanzarote a few years ago but my daughter had a child and I wanted to spend more time with the family so I moved to Britain and started looking for a football club to get involved with.
I looked at Northampton, Rotherham, Derby County, Burnley and Port Vale. QPR were the last team on the list. There was a good atmosphere here, it's a really good club. I went to the game at High Wycombe in the wind and I thought this was a club I'd like to be involved in. Initially I was only a consultant but I'm not the kind of person that can just sit around and not do anything I like to be here everyday working hard...QPR Rivals QPR
And a match report of Paladini's First QPR Game
Wycombe Wanderers 2 Queens Park Rangers 2 Saturday 20th March 2004
Football League Division Two
Wanderers recorded their ninth draw in eleven games after they threw away a two goal lead to draw with promotion chasing Queens Park Rangers at a windswept Adams Park. In front of the biggest League gate of the season at Adams Park and with the wind behind them, Wanderers scored twice in three first half minutes through Matt Bloomfield and Craig Faulconbridge but things were levelled up after the break as the wind turned the game into a near lottery. Kevin Gallen pulled a goal back a minute after the re-start and then on 68 minutes 'Wanderers reject' Martin Rowlands floated in a cross/shot from the right wing that Steve Williams watched sail over his head and into the back of the net. Danny Senda came closest to winning it for Wycombe when he went close in the 75th minute while Williams made up for his earlier misjudgement when he made late saves to frustrate the large travelling contingent from West London.
Tony Adams made one change to the side that had drew in the week versus Colchester United - a not fully fit Jermaine McSporran dropping to the bench and Danny Senda moving forward to the right of midfield and Mark Rogers returning to the side at right back for his first appearance since Boxing Day.
The effect of the wind was difficult to gauge in the opening stages where Wycombe's best chance came on 7 minutes when Nathan Tyson dragged a shot wide from the left after a good through ball from Michael Simpson. It was Tyson who played a major part in both of Wycombe's goals. First on 26 minutes he raced in on the left side of the penalty but under challenge from Clarke Carlise the ball deflected across the face of the goal where Bloomfield was waiting to convert his first goal in Wycombe shirt. Three minutes later Tyson broke again down the left and this time centred for Faulconbridge to cooly finish for his first goal since February 2003.
Tyson was the centre of attention again three minutes before the break when he fought back to retrieve the ball down the right only for Carlisle to challenge roughly backed up by Marc Bircham. Tyson seemed to react by raising his arms to Carlisle and will probably be grateful for only picking up a yellow card along with the Rangers player.
Half-time Wycombe 2 QPR 0
It was disappointing from Wycombe's point of view to concede so soon after the re-start when Kevin Gallen made the most of poor defending from Wycombe as he was able to take a touch on the right side of goal before finishing past Williams. However, Wanderers almost restored their two goal advantage on 61 minutes when Currie's goalbound free-kick from the left seemed to be headed over by Faulconbridge from inside the Rangers six yard box.
QPR's equaliser will go down as freak goal - Rowlands slung in a cross from the right that swirled and dipped in the wind before nestling in the far corner of the net. Most onlookers would have made QPR favourites to win from this point but Wanderers stuck in there and there was a chance to claim victory when Steve Brown's through ball to Tyson on 75 minutes culminated in Simpson and finally Senda seeing their efforts on goal twarted. At the other Williams made an excellent save from a Gallen free-kick on 82 minutes and with five minutes left on the clock he pushed away another Gallen attempt to earn Wycombe their deserved point and perhaps in more favourable conditions it would have been three.
Final Score - Wycombe 2 QPR 2
Rangers boss Ian Holloway commented on the conditions that had spoiled the game as spectacle, commenting "It was a really surreal day. I've never seen wind affect a football match like that before - not even in my amateur days. It was the most bizarre half time experience of my life. I wanted to scream and shout - but I also didn't think it was necessary. I just knew we'd get back in it.". Meanwhile, Tony Adams said he thought at half time that the two goal lead was not going to be enough bit and was frustrated that Wanderers had conceded straight away after the break. The Wycombe gaffer also didn't concede that his team were relegated "They're giving me everything they've got and as a manager I can't ask for more from them. They haven't thrown the towel in yet and they haven't done since I've been here. We may only have eight games left to avoid the drop but we're going to keep fighting until the last. If we win the last eight games, we'll stay up. Are we going to win the last eight? We'll most definitely try and that's all we can do." Wycombe: Williams, Rogers (sub 87 McSporran), Vinnicombe, Johnson, Nethercott, Senda, Simpson, Currie (sub 77 Philo), Bloomfield, Faulconbridge (sub 63 Brown), Tyson - subs not used: Simpemba, Dixon
Bookings: Tyson (ungentlemanly conduct 42)
Scorers: Bloomfield (26), Faulconbridge (29)
QPR: Camp, Forbes (sub HT Edghill), Carlisle, Gnohere, Rowlands, McLeod (sub 75 Cureton), Bircham (sub 86 Bean), Johnson, Gallen, Thorpe, Furlong - subs not used Day, Palmer
Bookings: Carlisle (foul 42), Bircham (foul 59)
Scorers: Gallen (46), Rowlands (68)
Referee: Martin Atkinson Attendance: 7,634 (1,986 away end) Wycombe
Two Ex-QPR Players Make Football League's "Teams of The Week"
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Congratulations to Jamie Cureton and Ian Evatt
Football League Official Site - Teams of the Week
"Each week the Official Football League website will bring you the Teams of the Week. Produced by the Press Association, the Teams of the Week feature the eleven top performing players from each division from this weekend's matches.' - Football League
Championship "Team of the Week" includes Jamie Cureton - Championship Team of the Week
Division One "Team of the Week" includes Ian Evatt - League OneTeam of the Week
Congratulations to Jamie Cureton and Ian Evatt
Football League Official Site - Teams of the Week
"Each week the Official Football League website will bring you the Teams of the Week. Produced by the Press Association, the Teams of the Week feature the eleven top performing players from each division from this weekend's matches.' - Football League
Championship "Team of the Week" includes Jamie Cureton - Championship Team of the Week
Division One "Team of the Week" includes Ian Evatt - League OneTeam of the Week
Club Statement re Warren Neil Helping Out at QPR
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More than a week after it was reported and discussed on a variety of messageboard fora, the Club finally makes an official statement about Warren Neil assisting John Gregory with coaching in the aftermath of the suspension of QPR Coach Richard Hill.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - A HELPING HAND
The Club can confirm that former R's defender Warren Neill is currently assisting Manager John Gregory.
However, contrary to reports in today's national press, Neill is only working on a part-time basis and has not replaced assistant manager Richard Hill.
Hill is currently suspended by the Club, pending an on-going internal enquiry into his involvement in the behind-closed-doors friendly against the Chinese Olympic team on February 9th.
Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk: "Warren is doing an old friend a favour for the time being.
"He's a very experienced guy and is QPR through and through. He spent three years here as our Assistant Academy Director and is certainly no stranger to coaching on the training ground. The situation regarding Richard Hill hasn't changed.''
Neill, 44, is a former Rangers team-mate of Gregory and a lifelong fan of the club. He was an apprentice at Loftus Road before making 224 appearances for the Rs between 1980 and 1988.
He played in the 1982 FA Cup final replay against Tottenham and the Milk Cup Final against Oxford four years later.
Neill moved to Portsmouth and had a brief spell at Watford, before returning to QPR as a coach after his playing career ended. QPR
And from today's Mirror:
Daily Mirror - 'PUNCH-UP' HILL GETS KO AT QPR By Aidan Magee 19/03/2007
RICHARD HILL has lost his job as QPR assistant manager in the wake of the brawl with the Chinese Olympic team.
Former Rangers defender Warren Neill has been brought in by manager John Gregory as a replacement until the end of the season.
Hill will not face police charges having been arrested after the infamous punch-up that left Chinese player Zheng Tao with a broken jaw. Mirror
More than a week after it was reported and discussed on a variety of messageboard fora, the Club finally makes an official statement about Warren Neil assisting John Gregory with coaching in the aftermath of the suspension of QPR Coach Richard Hill.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - A HELPING HAND
The Club can confirm that former R's defender Warren Neill is currently assisting Manager John Gregory.
However, contrary to reports in today's national press, Neill is only working on a part-time basis and has not replaced assistant manager Richard Hill.
Hill is currently suspended by the Club, pending an on-going internal enquiry into his involvement in the behind-closed-doors friendly against the Chinese Olympic team on February 9th.
Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk: "Warren is doing an old friend a favour for the time being.
"He's a very experienced guy and is QPR through and through. He spent three years here as our Assistant Academy Director and is certainly no stranger to coaching on the training ground. The situation regarding Richard Hill hasn't changed.''
Neill, 44, is a former Rangers team-mate of Gregory and a lifelong fan of the club. He was an apprentice at Loftus Road before making 224 appearances for the Rs between 1980 and 1988.
He played in the 1982 FA Cup final replay against Tottenham and the Milk Cup Final against Oxford four years later.
Neill moved to Portsmouth and had a brief spell at Watford, before returning to QPR as a coach after his playing career ended. QPR
And from today's Mirror:
Daily Mirror - 'PUNCH-UP' HILL GETS KO AT QPR By Aidan Magee 19/03/2007
RICHARD HILL has lost his job as QPR assistant manager in the wake of the brawl with the Chinese Olympic team.
Former Rangers defender Warren Neill has been brought in by manager John Gregory as a replacement until the end of the season.
Hill will not face police charges having been arrested after the infamous punch-up that left Chinese player Zheng Tao with a broken jaw. Mirror
On This Day: Genius's Debut...QPR Humiliation...QPR Birthdays
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On This Day: March 19
Forty-One years ago today, Rodney Marsh began his QPR Career
March 19, 1966: Marsh made his debut away to Peterborough. Drew 1-1 and didn't score.The team for Marsh's debut: Peter Springett -Langley, Hunt Sibley Watson - Lazarus, Keen, Roger Morgan, Allen, Collins Marsh.
Thiry-Eight Years Ago, Humiliation
March 19, 1969: Humiliation! Manchester United 8 QPR 1 (Marsh scored for QPR - one of four he scored that season!) AsI recall, the half time score was Man Ut 1 QPR 0 (or 2-1). Manchester United scored 4 of their goals in the last 15 minutes. It was a terrible season for QPR but this result was the worst!
QPR's Team
Spratley
Clement Hazell Hunt Watson
Glover I.Morgan Sibley
Clarke Marsh Leach
Sub: Keetch for Clarke
Manchester United
Willie Morgan 3, George Best 2, John Aston, Brian Kidd and Nobby Stiles got the goals.
Man Ut's Team included: Stepney, Fitzpatrick, Dunne, Crerand, James, Stiles, Morgan, Kidd, Aston, Law, Best
Birthdays Today: Andy Sinton and Roy Wegerle-
Also Birthday of brief QPR Signing, Warren Barton - Barton. Barton was born on the day of QPR's humiliating loss to Manchester United: March 19, 1969
Andy Sinton Turns 41: Born, March 19, 1966 Sinton Record
Signed by Trevor Francis from Brentford for 350,000 pounds. Sold 4 years later to Sheffield Wednesday for almost 3 million pouns
Roy Wegerle Turns 43 - Born March 19, 1964
Wegerle's Record
Don Howe's first signing when he became QPR manager. Signed from Luton for 1 million pounds. Sold a couple of years later by Gerry Francis to Blackburn for just over a million pounds.
On this Day 22 Years ago, two more goals for QPR Midfielder (and current manager) John Gregory! (as he scored 15 goals that season in QPR's Championship winning team under Terry Venables) in the 4-0 home win versus Rotherham (Goals also for Sealy and Hazell).
On This Day: March 19
Forty-One years ago today, Rodney Marsh began his QPR Career
March 19, 1966: Marsh made his debut away to Peterborough. Drew 1-1 and didn't score.The team for Marsh's debut: Peter Springett -Langley, Hunt Sibley Watson - Lazarus, Keen, Roger Morgan, Allen, Collins Marsh.
Thiry-Eight Years Ago, Humiliation
March 19, 1969: Humiliation! Manchester United 8 QPR 1 (Marsh scored for QPR - one of four he scored that season!) AsI recall, the half time score was Man Ut 1 QPR 0 (or 2-1). Manchester United scored 4 of their goals in the last 15 minutes. It was a terrible season for QPR but this result was the worst!
QPR's Team
Spratley
Clement Hazell Hunt Watson
Glover I.Morgan Sibley
Clarke Marsh Leach
Sub: Keetch for Clarke
Manchester United
Willie Morgan 3, George Best 2, John Aston, Brian Kidd and Nobby Stiles got the goals.
Man Ut's Team included: Stepney, Fitzpatrick, Dunne, Crerand, James, Stiles, Morgan, Kidd, Aston, Law, Best
Birthdays Today: Andy Sinton and Roy Wegerle-
Also Birthday of brief QPR Signing, Warren Barton - Barton. Barton was born on the day of QPR's humiliating loss to Manchester United: March 19, 1969
Andy Sinton Turns 41: Born, March 19, 1966 Sinton Record
Signed by Trevor Francis from Brentford for 350,000 pounds. Sold 4 years later to Sheffield Wednesday for almost 3 million pouns
Roy Wegerle Turns 43 - Born March 19, 1964
Wegerle's Record
Don Howe's first signing when he became QPR manager. Signed from Luton for 1 million pounds. Sold a couple of years later by Gerry Francis to Blackburn for just over a million pounds.
On this Day 22 Years ago, two more goals for QPR Midfielder (and current manager) John Gregory! (as he scored 15 goals that season in QPR's Championship winning team under Terry Venables) in the 4-0 home win versus Rotherham (Goals also for Sealy and Hazell).
QPR's Crucial Leicester Win - Additional Reports
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Mirror - ICE-COOL GREGORY TAKES THE HEAT OFF
ANY relegation scrap calls for ice in the veins and in boss John Gregory Queens Park Rangers have the ultimate master of cool.
Skipper Marcus Bignot reckons Gregory will be Rangers' trump card in the last eight nerve-racking games of their survival bid.
Marc Nygaard's superb performance brought a first away win since November 17 and lifted Rangers out of the bottom three.
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But Bignot is in no doubt it will be the man with the slicked back hair and the Armani suits who is the key.
None of the teams battling with Rangers at the bottom of the table boast a manager with such vast experience or one who can remain calm in a crisis.
Luton have caretaker Brian Stein, Leeds and Southend the inexperienced Dennis Wise and Steve Tilson, while Gregory has been there, seen it and got the Hugo Boss T-shirt. "It all stems from the gaffer," said Bignot. "He's not put any pressure on us and never loses his head.
"He's a cool dude. Not only does he dress it, but he acts it as well and we have reached the time of the season where it's time to walk the walk and not just talk the talk.
"It's not been easy and people can lose their heads, but we have the most experienced manager on our side down at the bottom. "And it's showing. He's taken it all away from us.
Obviously we have felt the pressure, but at no stage have we been scared to go out there and play and that's down to the gaffer."
Nygaard certainly showed no fear. He set up Inigo Idiakez for his first goal since arriving on loan from Southampton, tucked in a penalty and scored a superb third for Rangers.
The striker, nicknamed the Ninja Turtle because of his incredible back muscles, looks capable of carrying Rangers to safety.
But new Leicester owner Milan Mandaric must be thankful his side picked up enough points earlier in the season to be clear of the relegation scrap.
Iain Hume's late penalty will not have brought a smile to Mandaric's face.
The Serb is set for drastic rebuilding in the summer, and on this evidence it is hard to see many of the current squad being at the Walkers Stadium next season. Mirror
Mike Adamson - The Guardian Roundup
"...Luton's caretaker Brain Stein needed no introduction to the crowd but he was helpless as his team lost 2-0 at home to Ipswich and slipped deeper into trouble while QPR's completed an astonishing 3-1 win at Leicester where Marc Nygaard scored two, one from the spot and the other a dipping 30-yard volley, and they moved up to fourth bottom... Guardian
Also: QPR Rivals/Clive Whittingham Match Report - "Nygaard's wonder goal seals vital win"
Simon Skinner/QPR Net -"Foxes destroyed by Danish Dynamite"
Mirror - ICE-COOL GREGORY TAKES THE HEAT OFF
ANY relegation scrap calls for ice in the veins and in boss John Gregory Queens Park Rangers have the ultimate master of cool.
Skipper Marcus Bignot reckons Gregory will be Rangers' trump card in the last eight nerve-racking games of their survival bid.
Marc Nygaard's superb performance brought a first away win since November 17 and lifted Rangers out of the bottom three.
Advertisement
But Bignot is in no doubt it will be the man with the slicked back hair and the Armani suits who is the key.
None of the teams battling with Rangers at the bottom of the table boast a manager with such vast experience or one who can remain calm in a crisis.
Luton have caretaker Brian Stein, Leeds and Southend the inexperienced Dennis Wise and Steve Tilson, while Gregory has been there, seen it and got the Hugo Boss T-shirt. "It all stems from the gaffer," said Bignot. "He's not put any pressure on us and never loses his head.
"He's a cool dude. Not only does he dress it, but he acts it as well and we have reached the time of the season where it's time to walk the walk and not just talk the talk.
"It's not been easy and people can lose their heads, but we have the most experienced manager on our side down at the bottom. "And it's showing. He's taken it all away from us.
Obviously we have felt the pressure, but at no stage have we been scared to go out there and play and that's down to the gaffer."
Nygaard certainly showed no fear. He set up Inigo Idiakez for his first goal since arriving on loan from Southampton, tucked in a penalty and scored a superb third for Rangers.
The striker, nicknamed the Ninja Turtle because of his incredible back muscles, looks capable of carrying Rangers to safety.
But new Leicester owner Milan Mandaric must be thankful his side picked up enough points earlier in the season to be clear of the relegation scrap.
Iain Hume's late penalty will not have brought a smile to Mandaric's face.
The Serb is set for drastic rebuilding in the summer, and on this evidence it is hard to see many of the current squad being at the Walkers Stadium next season. Mirror
Mike Adamson - The Guardian Roundup
"...Luton's caretaker Brain Stein needed no introduction to the crowd but he was helpless as his team lost 2-0 at home to Ipswich and slipped deeper into trouble while QPR's completed an astonishing 3-1 win at Leicester where Marc Nygaard scored two, one from the spot and the other a dipping 30-yard volley, and they moved up to fourth bottom... Guardian
Also: QPR Rivals/Clive Whittingham Match Report - "Nygaard's wonder goal seals vital win"
Simon Skinner/QPR Net -"Foxes destroyed by Danish Dynamite"
Sunday, March 18, 2007
QPR's Leicester Victory - Reports & Comments
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Updates:
Sunday People By John Percy - LEICESTER 1-3 QPR
MARC NYGAARD finally started punching his weight to earn Queens Park Rangers a vital three points in their bid to get off the Championship canvas and stagger to safety.
The 6ft 5in Dane has been a massive disappointment to manager John Gregory in recent weeks - but he made it a red-face day for embarrassed Leicester as Rangers picked up their first away win since November.
Nygaard hammered in a wonder goal and collected another from the penalty spot, as well as setting up Inigo Idiakez for his first goal since arriving on loan from Southampton.
Leicester disintegrated in a four-minute spell after half-time when Nygaard headed on Marcus Bignot's free-kick for Idiakez to force a close-range header past Wayne Henderson.
Nygaard doubled the lead from the spot after Alan Maybury shoved Paul Furlong.
Rangers keeper Lee Camp had kept Leicester at bay in the first half with three excellent saves, and no-one could see the remarkable turnaround coming.
But Nygaard confirmed the victory in awesome style with a swerving 30-yard effort in the 68th minute for his fourth goal of the season.
This finished off sorry Leicester, who found no consolation in Iain Hume's stoppage time penalty after handball by Danny Cullip. People
QPR Official Site John Gregory's Post-Match Comments LONG TIME COMING
John Gregory could not hide his delight following QPR's first away win since November.
The R's hadn't won outside Loftus Road since their smash-and-grab victory at Cardiff, and after seeing his side comfortably beat Leicester 3-1 this afternoon, Gregory said: "That win has been a long time coming.
"We've been playing very well recently but not getting the points are performances have deserved."
Rangers scored two quick goals at the start of the second half to take control against the Foxes, and the gaffer admitted: "The second goal was vital, and once it went in, it was just a case of running the clock down.
"We didn't look back from there. It was a real battling performance by every one of my players."
Gregory also had high praise for Marc Nygaard, who scored twice.
"He had the bottle to step up and take the penalty," he said, "and his second goal was a sensational strike. I hope he realises that he can't do that every week though.
"Joe Dunbar, who was sat next to me on the bench, actually shouted 'No Marc!' as he went to shoot!
"Now we have to concentrate on making sure we are ready for our next match against West Brom on 31st March." QPR
LEICESTER OFFICIAL SITE - Kelly
Kelly Offers No Excuses
City boss Rob Kelly could not hide his disappointment following his side's 3-1 defeat at the hands of QPR at the Walkers Stadium on Saturday.
The Foxes had gone into the game looking to build on their recent run of results which had seen them defeated just once in their last eight encounters.
But Leicester would come unstuck against John Gregory's men - with two goals at the start of the second period for the visitors doing the real damage.
Kelly said: "I am not going to make any excuses. The bottom line is our performance in the second half today wasn't anywhere near what we as a group are trying to achieve for our football club and its supporters.
"I will hold both hands up. That is my team and we weren't good enough.
"I certainly wouldn't try to pull the wool over anybody's eyes - we weren't anywhere near where we should be if we are going to move forward.
"We knew that QPR's main threat would come from set plays. We didn't defend a free-kick properly at the start of the second half and that effected us too much.
"I had again emphasised that their main threat would come from set pieces when I spoke to the players at half time. But in the end we lose two headers and the ball is in the back of the net.
"We didn't show nearly enough to get back into the game. We are disappointed in ourselves.
"We are also disappointed for the supporters. They have again turned out in great numbers, but we didn't do them justice.
"The fans have got every right to be disappointed.
"We let ourselves down and we have let our supporters down. When we win we win together and when we get beat we get beat together.
"We are where we are in the league because we are inconsistent.
"But we have got a two week break now and we will be working hard to put things right." Leicester
Leicester Official Site - Player's Perspective Darren Kenton
Darren Kenton offered no excuses after City slumped to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of QPR on Saturday afternoon.
It was only their second loss in nine Championship matches but they are now just seven points above the drop zone with eight games remaining this term.
"It was a very disappointing result especially after the way we started the game," said the defender, who came in at centre-half for the injured Gareth McAuley.
"We started quite brightly and had the better chances in the first half but two goals in four minutes at the start of the second half really took it out of us and we faced an uphill challenge after that.
"I thought myself and Paddy Kisnorbo handled their two big strikers quite well but one long ball in to the box which we didn't defend properly and a soft penalty turned the game on its head.
"We tried to force our way back into the game after that but the ball just wouldn't fall for us and their third was just a great strike and summed up our day.
"But we can't make excuses, it just wasn't good enough."
The match marked Kenton's first start since New Year's Day but while pleased to be back in the starting line-up, the defeat left a bitter taste in his mouth.
"It has been a while since I started and it is frustrating when you are not playing but up until a couple of games ago we had been on a good run," he added.
"It was disappointing again to lose and not get the three points. The last game I started was against Sunderland and we lost that as well!"
City now have an extended break due to internationals and are not back in action until March 31 when they travel to Midlands rivals Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.
"You always want to go into a break with three points in the bag but we can't afford to dwell, this game has now gone and we must prepare ourselves for the next one," Kenton said.
"We must remain focused and upbeat because there is still work to be done." Leicester
BBC - MANAGERIAL COMMENTS
# Leicester boss Rob Kelly:
"There was a lack of concentration in the second half. In the first half I thought we were dominant but you need to be scoring in those spells.
"It's now a long two weeks until our next game when we really need one tomorrow but we haven't and will just have to work hard to put it right.
"We've still got a lot of work to do this season. Our target has to be that we get over that 50-points barrier."
# QPR manager John Gregory:
"In the first half we were horrendous. We were tired and lethargic and allowed Leicester to dominate the early exchanges.
"I would have expected Leicester to do much better with all the possession they had but they never really punished us.
"It was a fine win in the end and we now have three matches at home. If we manage to win those it might just get us across the finishing line." BBC
SPORTING LIFE
QPR boss John Gregory set his players a survival target of three more wins after a superb second-half performance at Leicester lifted them out of the relegation zone in the Coca-Cola Championship.
The Londoners leapfrogged Southend as they recorded a first away victory since last November when they won at Cardiff.
Leicester dominated the first half but could not find a way past QPR goalkeeper Lee Camp.
The visitors netted two quick goals after the break as Inigo Idiakez headed home on 47 minutes and Marc Nygaard added a penalty four minutes later, with Alan Maybury penalised for bundling over Paul Furlong.
Leicester's problems increased when Nygaard struck a stunning third from 30 yards, a drive from the right which flew into the top left corner.
Gregory said: "In the first half we were horrendous. We were tired and lethargic and allowed Leicester to dominate the early exchanges.
"For 30 minutes we were second best and second to every ball.
"But we needed to get to half-time at 0-0 because we have a lot of energy in the side and lots of strength and we do tend to kick on in the second half.
"I would have expected Leicester to do much better with all the possession they had but they never really punished us.
"We now have three matches at home and if we manage to win those it might just get us across the finishing line."
Leicester manager Rob Kelly apologised to City fans and described his team's performance in the second half as the worst of his reign.
He said: "There was a lack of concentration in the second half. In the first half I thought we were dominant but you need to be scoring in those spells.
"In the second half we were nowhere near where we need to be and we need performances that will move this club forward.
"It's now a long two weeks until our next game when we really need one tomorrow but we haven't and will just have to work hard to put it right because we've still got a lot of work to do this season.
"Our target has to be that we get over that 50-points barrier.
"The second half was as poor as we've played since I've been in charge.
"The two goals really rocked us but unlike against Leeds the other night when we hit back, you could see that their two goals affected us too much, drained us and stopped us being brave.
"And then they scored a sensational third."
Leicester's reply came from a late Iain Hume penalty, after Danny Cullip had been penalised for handball. Sporting Life
Sunday Mail - Gregory pep talk just the job for QPR
QPR did their Championship survival hopes a power of good with a stunning win at the Walkers Stadium.
Whatever manager John Gregory said in his half-time team talk did wonders for Rangers who struck three times after the break to earn their first win on their travels since November.
First Leicester failed to cope with a Marcus Bignot free-kick which Marc Nygaard nodded on for Inigo Idiakez to head home within two minutes of the restart.
Nygaard then converted a 51st-minute penalty after Shaun Newton had bundled over Paul Furlong.
And City’s nightmare worsened on 68 minutes when Nygaard smashed a 30-yard drive from out on the right which flew into the top left-hand corner.
Deep in time added on at the end of the game Iain Hume scored a consolation penalty for Leicester after Danny Cullip had handled inside the box.
It was all in total contrast to a first half that Leicester dominated and Rangers had failed to get a single effort on target.
Indeed, Rangers might easily have turned around three goals down had not the excellent Lee Camp pulled off great saves to deny Alan Maybury, Hume and Stephen Hughes Mail
Also: Earlier Reports re QPR's Win at Leicester
Updates:
Sunday People By John Percy - LEICESTER 1-3 QPR
MARC NYGAARD finally started punching his weight to earn Queens Park Rangers a vital three points in their bid to get off the Championship canvas and stagger to safety.
The 6ft 5in Dane has been a massive disappointment to manager John Gregory in recent weeks - but he made it a red-face day for embarrassed Leicester as Rangers picked up their first away win since November.
Nygaard hammered in a wonder goal and collected another from the penalty spot, as well as setting up Inigo Idiakez for his first goal since arriving on loan from Southampton.
Leicester disintegrated in a four-minute spell after half-time when Nygaard headed on Marcus Bignot's free-kick for Idiakez to force a close-range header past Wayne Henderson.
Nygaard doubled the lead from the spot after Alan Maybury shoved Paul Furlong.
Rangers keeper Lee Camp had kept Leicester at bay in the first half with three excellent saves, and no-one could see the remarkable turnaround coming.
But Nygaard confirmed the victory in awesome style with a swerving 30-yard effort in the 68th minute for his fourth goal of the season.
This finished off sorry Leicester, who found no consolation in Iain Hume's stoppage time penalty after handball by Danny Cullip. People
QPR Official Site John Gregory's Post-Match Comments LONG TIME COMING
John Gregory could not hide his delight following QPR's first away win since November.
The R's hadn't won outside Loftus Road since their smash-and-grab victory at Cardiff, and after seeing his side comfortably beat Leicester 3-1 this afternoon, Gregory said: "That win has been a long time coming.
"We've been playing very well recently but not getting the points are performances have deserved."
Rangers scored two quick goals at the start of the second half to take control against the Foxes, and the gaffer admitted: "The second goal was vital, and once it went in, it was just a case of running the clock down.
"We didn't look back from there. It was a real battling performance by every one of my players."
Gregory also had high praise for Marc Nygaard, who scored twice.
"He had the bottle to step up and take the penalty," he said, "and his second goal was a sensational strike. I hope he realises that he can't do that every week though.
"Joe Dunbar, who was sat next to me on the bench, actually shouted 'No Marc!' as he went to shoot!
"Now we have to concentrate on making sure we are ready for our next match against West Brom on 31st March." QPR
LEICESTER OFFICIAL SITE - Kelly
Kelly Offers No Excuses
City boss Rob Kelly could not hide his disappointment following his side's 3-1 defeat at the hands of QPR at the Walkers Stadium on Saturday.
The Foxes had gone into the game looking to build on their recent run of results which had seen them defeated just once in their last eight encounters.
But Leicester would come unstuck against John Gregory's men - with two goals at the start of the second period for the visitors doing the real damage.
Kelly said: "I am not going to make any excuses. The bottom line is our performance in the second half today wasn't anywhere near what we as a group are trying to achieve for our football club and its supporters.
"I will hold both hands up. That is my team and we weren't good enough.
"I certainly wouldn't try to pull the wool over anybody's eyes - we weren't anywhere near where we should be if we are going to move forward.
"We knew that QPR's main threat would come from set plays. We didn't defend a free-kick properly at the start of the second half and that effected us too much.
"I had again emphasised that their main threat would come from set pieces when I spoke to the players at half time. But in the end we lose two headers and the ball is in the back of the net.
"We didn't show nearly enough to get back into the game. We are disappointed in ourselves.
"We are also disappointed for the supporters. They have again turned out in great numbers, but we didn't do them justice.
"The fans have got every right to be disappointed.
"We let ourselves down and we have let our supporters down. When we win we win together and when we get beat we get beat together.
"We are where we are in the league because we are inconsistent.
"But we have got a two week break now and we will be working hard to put things right." Leicester
Leicester Official Site - Player's Perspective Darren Kenton
Darren Kenton offered no excuses after City slumped to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of QPR on Saturday afternoon.
It was only their second loss in nine Championship matches but they are now just seven points above the drop zone with eight games remaining this term.
"It was a very disappointing result especially after the way we started the game," said the defender, who came in at centre-half for the injured Gareth McAuley.
"We started quite brightly and had the better chances in the first half but two goals in four minutes at the start of the second half really took it out of us and we faced an uphill challenge after that.
"I thought myself and Paddy Kisnorbo handled their two big strikers quite well but one long ball in to the box which we didn't defend properly and a soft penalty turned the game on its head.
"We tried to force our way back into the game after that but the ball just wouldn't fall for us and their third was just a great strike and summed up our day.
"But we can't make excuses, it just wasn't good enough."
The match marked Kenton's first start since New Year's Day but while pleased to be back in the starting line-up, the defeat left a bitter taste in his mouth.
"It has been a while since I started and it is frustrating when you are not playing but up until a couple of games ago we had been on a good run," he added.
"It was disappointing again to lose and not get the three points. The last game I started was against Sunderland and we lost that as well!"
City now have an extended break due to internationals and are not back in action until March 31 when they travel to Midlands rivals Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.
"You always want to go into a break with three points in the bag but we can't afford to dwell, this game has now gone and we must prepare ourselves for the next one," Kenton said.
"We must remain focused and upbeat because there is still work to be done." Leicester
BBC - MANAGERIAL COMMENTS
# Leicester boss Rob Kelly:
"There was a lack of concentration in the second half. In the first half I thought we were dominant but you need to be scoring in those spells.
"It's now a long two weeks until our next game when we really need one tomorrow but we haven't and will just have to work hard to put it right.
"We've still got a lot of work to do this season. Our target has to be that we get over that 50-points barrier."
# QPR manager John Gregory:
"In the first half we were horrendous. We were tired and lethargic and allowed Leicester to dominate the early exchanges.
"I would have expected Leicester to do much better with all the possession they had but they never really punished us.
"It was a fine win in the end and we now have three matches at home. If we manage to win those it might just get us across the finishing line." BBC
SPORTING LIFE
QPR boss John Gregory set his players a survival target of three more wins after a superb second-half performance at Leicester lifted them out of the relegation zone in the Coca-Cola Championship.
The Londoners leapfrogged Southend as they recorded a first away victory since last November when they won at Cardiff.
Leicester dominated the first half but could not find a way past QPR goalkeeper Lee Camp.
The visitors netted two quick goals after the break as Inigo Idiakez headed home on 47 minutes and Marc Nygaard added a penalty four minutes later, with Alan Maybury penalised for bundling over Paul Furlong.
Leicester's problems increased when Nygaard struck a stunning third from 30 yards, a drive from the right which flew into the top left corner.
Gregory said: "In the first half we were horrendous. We were tired and lethargic and allowed Leicester to dominate the early exchanges.
"For 30 minutes we were second best and second to every ball.
"But we needed to get to half-time at 0-0 because we have a lot of energy in the side and lots of strength and we do tend to kick on in the second half.
"I would have expected Leicester to do much better with all the possession they had but they never really punished us.
"We now have three matches at home and if we manage to win those it might just get us across the finishing line."
Leicester manager Rob Kelly apologised to City fans and described his team's performance in the second half as the worst of his reign.
He said: "There was a lack of concentration in the second half. In the first half I thought we were dominant but you need to be scoring in those spells.
"In the second half we were nowhere near where we need to be and we need performances that will move this club forward.
"It's now a long two weeks until our next game when we really need one tomorrow but we haven't and will just have to work hard to put it right because we've still got a lot of work to do this season.
"Our target has to be that we get over that 50-points barrier.
"The second half was as poor as we've played since I've been in charge.
"The two goals really rocked us but unlike against Leeds the other night when we hit back, you could see that their two goals affected us too much, drained us and stopped us being brave.
"And then they scored a sensational third."
Leicester's reply came from a late Iain Hume penalty, after Danny Cullip had been penalised for handball. Sporting Life
Sunday Mail - Gregory pep talk just the job for QPR
QPR did their Championship survival hopes a power of good with a stunning win at the Walkers Stadium.
Whatever manager John Gregory said in his half-time team talk did wonders for Rangers who struck three times after the break to earn their first win on their travels since November.
First Leicester failed to cope with a Marcus Bignot free-kick which Marc Nygaard nodded on for Inigo Idiakez to head home within two minutes of the restart.
Nygaard then converted a 51st-minute penalty after Shaun Newton had bundled over Paul Furlong.
And City’s nightmare worsened on 68 minutes when Nygaard smashed a 30-yard drive from out on the right which flew into the top left-hand corner.
Deep in time added on at the end of the game Iain Hume scored a consolation penalty for Leicester after Danny Cullip had handled inside the box.
It was all in total contrast to a first half that Leicester dominated and Rangers had failed to get a single effort on target.
Indeed, Rangers might easily have turned around three goals down had not the excellent Lee Camp pulled off great saves to deny Alan Maybury, Hume and Stephen Hughes Mail
Also: Earlier Reports re QPR's Win at Leicester
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Thirty Years Since QPR's UEFA Cup Run Ended at AEK Athens
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Thirty years ago (as of two days ago) since Dave's Sexton's (virtual) League Champions side tragically got knocked out of the UEFA Cup on penalties. In the UEFA Cup, Stan Bowles scored 11 goals in that run
March 16, 1977: QPR lost 7-6 on penalties to AEK Athens (Webb missing the penalty. QPR had won the home leg 3-0...and then lost the game in Athens 0-3...
QPR's team that night was missing three of QPR's England players: Clement, Francis and Thomas and also QPR stalwart, Mick Leach. Shanks, Kelly and Eastoe deputized.
QPR's Team for that night:
Parkes Shanks Webb McClintock Gillard, Hollins, Masson, Leach, Eastoe, Bowles and Givens
QPR's 1976-77 UEFA Cup Run
1 BRANN BERGEN (NOR) H 4-0
(Bowles 3, Masson)
BRANN BERGEN (NOR) A 7-0 (Agg 11-0)
(Bowles 3, Givens 2, Thomas, Webb)
2 SLOVAN BRATISLAVA (TCH) A 3-3
(Bowles 2, Givens)
SLOVAN BRATISLAVA (TCH) H 5-2 (Agg 8-5)
(Givens 3 (1 pen) Bowles, Clement
3 1 F C KÖLN (GER) H 3-0
(Givens, Webb Bowles)
1 F C KÖLN (GER) A 1-4 (Agg 4-4)
(Masson)
Queens Park Rangers won on away goals
QF A E K ATHENS (GRE) H 3-0
(Francis 2 (2 pens) Bowles
A E K ATHENS (GRE) A 0-3 (Agg 3-3)
Queens Park Rangers lost 7-6 on penalties
History
1976/1977 COMPLETE UEFA CUP RESULTSResults
Ex-QPR Youth, Danny Blanchett Signs for Peterborough
Petebrough - Posh Pip Host Of Top Clubs In Transfer Coup
Peterborough United have beaten a whole host of clubs to secure the signing of highly-rated left-back Danny Blanchett for an undisclosed fee from Cambridge City.
Chairman Darragh MacAnthony has signed the youngster despite interest from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Watford who he was due to train with this week. Blanchett has had a trial period at Premier League giants Liverpool and will become 'the fastest left-back in League Two'.
Blanchett (19), speaking exclusively to theposh.com, said: 'I am really exited about this move, it is a good club to sign for. Peterborough are an ambitious club, the chairman wants to go places and the manager matches that ambition.
'I want to play first team football and hopefully I will get that opportunity here. A few clubs have watched me at Cambridge City, but I just kept my head down and did my job. I thought as a young player Peterborough would be the ideal club for me.
'I am a left-back, I like to play football and play with players that like getting the ball down. I have had a few chats with Darren Ferguson on the phone and his style seems to suit my game. He wants to get promotion and the club still has the chance this year,' Blanchett said.
Manager Darren Ferguson said: 'He has been tracked by loads of clubs including Wolves and Everton, he has good size and pace. We have brought a lot of young players in and he is no different. He has good potential, is ambitious and that's what we want at this football club.' Peterbrough
[QPR Youth come from 0-2 down to draw vs Southend (with 14 minutes of stoppage time! Scorers according to QPR Rivals report Kieron St Aimee and a trialist.
- See Southend Match Report - "...Southend United's assault on the Puma Youth Alliance League title was derailed in stoppage time as two late goals from QPR denied them all three points in west London. With just 75 seconds of normal time remaining at the Imperial College Sports Ground in Harlington, Blues Youths led 2-0, but they were undone twice in the dying moments of this top-of-the-table clash, with the referee eventually playing an incredible 14 minutes of stoppage time. .."Southend Report
Also QPR Rivals Report of Youth Game - Report
Mirror - GALLEN UP FOR GRABS
KEVIN GALLEN looks certain to quit QPR and head for pastures new this summer.
The Loftus Road fans' hero is currently on loan at Plymouth until the end of the season and at the end of June he'll become a free agent.
Leicester City and a string of other Championship clubs are keeping tabs on the 31-year-old striker who grew up close to Loftus Road" Mirror
The Mirror/BBC Gossip
"Luton want Colchester assistant boss Mick Harford as their new manager to replace Mike Newell, with Plymouth's Tim Breacker also on the shortlist (Mirror). BBC Gossip
On-Loan NICK WARD missed Brighton's game vs Scunthorpe - He's with the Australia National Team Squad - Brighton
IAN HOLLOWAY ON TRYING TO SIGN SCOTT SINCLAIR FOR QPRPlymouth Official Site
"...Manager Ian Holloway is delighted with the progress Sinclair has made. Holloway has known the youngster for many years and the 17-year-old is fulfilling the promise he showed as a kid at Bristol Rovers...."Our chief scout Gary Penrice knows Brendan Rogers, who runs the Chelsea youth set-up and Gary set the whole thing up.
"Gary and I spent hours and hours at Scott's home a few years ago trying to persuade him to come to QPR. He had the choice of a lot of clubs. I was a bit concerned when he went to Chelsea because he is such a lovely lad, but he has come on leaps and bounds.." Plymouth
It was Terell Forbes vs Ian Evatt (with Matt Rose and Marcus Bean,remaining on the bench) in Blackpool's 1-0 win at Yeovil - Report
And of course on Friday evening, it was two more goals for Jamie Cureton (to make 16 for the season) in Colchester's 2-1 at Southampton.
For Tony Roberts after a 1-1 Draw it was his Testimonial Disco Night
Robbo's Disco - Testimonial
Thirty years ago (as of two days ago) since Dave's Sexton's (virtual) League Champions side tragically got knocked out of the UEFA Cup on penalties. In the UEFA Cup, Stan Bowles scored 11 goals in that run
March 16, 1977: QPR lost 7-6 on penalties to AEK Athens (Webb missing the penalty. QPR had won the home leg 3-0...and then lost the game in Athens 0-3...
QPR's team that night was missing three of QPR's England players: Clement, Francis and Thomas and also QPR stalwart, Mick Leach. Shanks, Kelly and Eastoe deputized.
QPR's Team for that night:
Parkes Shanks Webb McClintock Gillard, Hollins, Masson, Leach, Eastoe, Bowles and Givens
QPR's 1976-77 UEFA Cup Run
1 BRANN BERGEN (NOR) H 4-0
(Bowles 3, Masson)
BRANN BERGEN (NOR) A 7-0 (Agg 11-0)
(Bowles 3, Givens 2, Thomas, Webb)
2 SLOVAN BRATISLAVA (TCH) A 3-3
(Bowles 2, Givens)
SLOVAN BRATISLAVA (TCH) H 5-2 (Agg 8-5)
(Givens 3 (1 pen) Bowles, Clement
3 1 F C KÖLN (GER) H 3-0
(Givens, Webb Bowles)
1 F C KÖLN (GER) A 1-4 (Agg 4-4)
(Masson)
Queens Park Rangers won on away goals
QF A E K ATHENS (GRE) H 3-0
(Francis 2 (2 pens) Bowles
A E K ATHENS (GRE) A 0-3 (Agg 3-3)
Queens Park Rangers lost 7-6 on penalties
History
1976/1977 COMPLETE UEFA CUP RESULTSResults
Ex-QPR Youth, Danny Blanchett Signs for Peterborough
Petebrough - Posh Pip Host Of Top Clubs In Transfer Coup
Peterborough United have beaten a whole host of clubs to secure the signing of highly-rated left-back Danny Blanchett for an undisclosed fee from Cambridge City.
Chairman Darragh MacAnthony has signed the youngster despite interest from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Watford who he was due to train with this week. Blanchett has had a trial period at Premier League giants Liverpool and will become 'the fastest left-back in League Two'.
Blanchett (19), speaking exclusively to theposh.com, said: 'I am really exited about this move, it is a good club to sign for. Peterborough are an ambitious club, the chairman wants to go places and the manager matches that ambition.
'I want to play first team football and hopefully I will get that opportunity here. A few clubs have watched me at Cambridge City, but I just kept my head down and did my job. I thought as a young player Peterborough would be the ideal club for me.
'I am a left-back, I like to play football and play with players that like getting the ball down. I have had a few chats with Darren Ferguson on the phone and his style seems to suit my game. He wants to get promotion and the club still has the chance this year,' Blanchett said.
Manager Darren Ferguson said: 'He has been tracked by loads of clubs including Wolves and Everton, he has good size and pace. We have brought a lot of young players in and he is no different. He has good potential, is ambitious and that's what we want at this football club.' Peterbrough
[QPR Youth come from 0-2 down to draw vs Southend (with 14 minutes of stoppage time! Scorers according to QPR Rivals report Kieron St Aimee and a trialist.
- See Southend Match Report - "...Southend United's assault on the Puma Youth Alliance League title was derailed in stoppage time as two late goals from QPR denied them all three points in west London. With just 75 seconds of normal time remaining at the Imperial College Sports Ground in Harlington, Blues Youths led 2-0, but they were undone twice in the dying moments of this top-of-the-table clash, with the referee eventually playing an incredible 14 minutes of stoppage time. .."Southend Report
Also QPR Rivals Report of Youth Game - Report
Mirror - GALLEN UP FOR GRABS
KEVIN GALLEN looks certain to quit QPR and head for pastures new this summer.
The Loftus Road fans' hero is currently on loan at Plymouth until the end of the season and at the end of June he'll become a free agent.
Leicester City and a string of other Championship clubs are keeping tabs on the 31-year-old striker who grew up close to Loftus Road" Mirror
The Mirror/BBC Gossip
"Luton want Colchester assistant boss Mick Harford as their new manager to replace Mike Newell, with Plymouth's Tim Breacker also on the shortlist (Mirror). BBC Gossip
On-Loan NICK WARD missed Brighton's game vs Scunthorpe - He's with the Australia National Team Squad - Brighton
IAN HOLLOWAY ON TRYING TO SIGN SCOTT SINCLAIR FOR QPRPlymouth Official Site
"...Manager Ian Holloway is delighted with the progress Sinclair has made. Holloway has known the youngster for many years and the 17-year-old is fulfilling the promise he showed as a kid at Bristol Rovers...."Our chief scout Gary Penrice knows Brendan Rogers, who runs the Chelsea youth set-up and Gary set the whole thing up.
"Gary and I spent hours and hours at Scott's home a few years ago trying to persuade him to come to QPR. He had the choice of a lot of clubs. I was a bit concerned when he went to Chelsea because he is such a lovely lad, but he has come on leaps and bounds.." Plymouth
It was Terell Forbes vs Ian Evatt (with Matt Rose and Marcus Bean,remaining on the bench) in Blackpool's 1-0 win at Yeovil - Report
And of course on Friday evening, it was two more goals for Jamie Cureton (to make 16 for the season) in Colchester's 2-1 at Southampton.
For Tony Roberts after a 1-1 Draw it was his Testimonial Disco Night
Robbo's Disco - Testimonial
Amazing! QPR Win (Away) at Leicester
-
Ending a goaless away run dating back to mid-November, QPR today travelled to Leicester and won 3-1. Halftime was 0-0. Second half goals Idiakez, Nygaard (penalty) and Nygaard again.
Table:
Leicester 38 46
Burnley 37 41
Hull 39 41
Barnsley 39 41
QPR 38 40
Southend 39 39
Luton 39 36
Leeds 39 36
Updated Table
QPR OFFICIAL SITE FOXES 1-3 QPR
A sensational second-half strike from Marc Nygaard capped Rangers' first away win in four months as they lifted themselves out of the bottom three.
Nygaard's stunning volley, his second of the game, put John Gregory's side into a 3-0 lead midway through the second half and, despite a late Leicester goal, it was enough for a morale-boosting victory.
Neither side could carve out many chances in a tepid first half as Leicester's Jason Jarrett bundled his finish wide of Lee Camp's goal.
At the other end, Lee Cook's cross picked out Paul Furlong, whose looping header sailed well wide of the target.
Leicester keeper Paul Henderson was finally called into action just before the half-hour mark when he fended Gareth Ainsworth's cross-cum-shot behind but the corner, from Inigo Idiakez, went astray.
Idiakez latched onto a half-chance when Nygaard nodded back Cook's cross, but the Spaniard's half-volley sailed into the stand.
Camp was the busier of the two keepers, fielding a 25-yarder from Alan Maybury and then leaping to his right to push away Iain Hume's curling free-kick from 25 yards.
And Camp then produced a magnificent block to parry Stephen Hughes' piledriver after Hume's shot had deflected off Damion Stewart.
On the stroke of half-time, though, the ball broke to Nygaard inside the penalty area, but he blazed wide and was relieved to see the linesman's flag raised for an offside decision.
There was nothing to prevent Rangers celebrating a goal just over a minute after the restart, though, as Nygaard nodded back Cook's free-kick and Idiakez powered a header beyond Henderson.
Suddenly the Rs were beginning to swarm forward with confidence and the home side scrambled Adam Bolder's cross behind before Furlong could reach it.
That respite was short-lived, though, and referee Neil Swarbrick pointed to the spot after a push by Maybury, giving Rangers an opportunity to double their lead.
In the absence of Rowlands, Nygaard took on the responsibility and the big Dane made no mistake, calmly slotting low to Henderson's right.
Leicester's response was to bring on ex-Fulham striker Elvis Hammond and he quickly scampered on to a Hume pass, but was halted by Stewart's timely challenge.
And Leicester were shattered by a third goal that came out of nowhere in the 68th minute - Furlong flicking on Camp's clearance for Nygaard who, from 30 yards out, lashed an astonishing volley into the net from wide on the right.
With 15 minutes remaining, Danny Cullip charged down a shot from Hammond and Rangers broke again, but Gareth Ainsworth's cross was plucked out of the air by Henderson.
With disgruntled Leicester fans spilling out of the stadium, those still inside must have known it was not their day when Camp spilled Danny Tiatto's deep free-kick and the ball rebounded to Shaun Newton, who blazed wildly over the bar.
There was a late scare for Rangers when Cook cleared Patrick Kisnorbo's header off the line and, in another penalty area scramble, Camp denied Newton from close range.
But Leicester gained a consolation in added time when Cullip handled Hume's cross and the striker smashed the spot-kick past Camp.
Leicester City: Paul Henderson, Alan Maybury, Darren Kenton, Patrick Kisnorbo, Nils-Eric Johansson, Shaun Newton, Jason Jarrett (James Wesolowski 77), Stephen Hughes (Danny Tiatto 77), Mark Yeates, Iain Hume, Geoff Horsfield (Elvis Hammond 63).
Subs not used: Conrad Logan, Richard Stearman.
Goals: Hume 90 (pen)
Bookings: Johansson, Hume
QPR: Lee Camp, Michael Mancienne, Danny Cullip, Damion Stewart, Marcus Bignot, Adam Bolder,
Gareth Ainsworth (Jimmy Smith 89), Inigo Idiakez (Steve Lomas 63), Lee Cook, Paul Furlong (Ray Jones 84), Marc Nygaard.
Subs not used: Jake Cole, Patrick Kanyuka.
Goals: Idiakez 47, Nygaard 51 (pen), 68
Bookings: Stewart, Cullip, Furlong, Jones
Att: 24,558 QPR Official Site
LEICESTER OFFICIAL SITE - Leicester 1 QPR 3
Leicester City suffered their first home defeat since New Year's Day as they went down 3-1 against Queens Park Rangers at the Walkers Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Two goals inside four minutes at the start of the second half from Inigo Idiakez and a Marc Nygaard penalty did the damage before a Nygaard wonder goal sealed matters.
It proved to be a bad day at the office for the hosts with Iain Hume's 12th of the campaign from the penalty spot late on proving scant consolation.
Stephen Hughes, Mark Yeates and Shaun Newton came close but they could not prevent the home side suffering their second defeat in nine matches.
Lee Camp saved well from Hume on two minutes after the diminutive striker had jinked his way into the penalty area.
Both Hume and Geoff Horsfield just failed to connect with the returning Mark Yeates' dangerous cross from the left two minutes later.
Jason Jarrett tried his luck from 30-yards in the ninth minute but Camp was equal to the task and saved comfortably.
Nils-Eric Johansson was booked for a deliberate hand ball a minute later before Jarrett stabbed his effort wide from close range after Newton's cross from the right.
At the other end Paul Furlong headed wide from Lee Cook's cross then Camp dived to his left to deny Alan Maybury from long distance on 22 minutes.
After Horsfield broke up a QPR attack on the half-way line, he released Yeates who raced clear before curling an effort just wide of the right-hand upright.
Damion Stewart was cautioned for a lunge on Hume in the 26th minute.
Paul Henderson had to divert Gareth Ainsworth's cross out for a corner moments later as the visitors tried to stamp their authority on the contest.
Danny Cullip was yellow-carded following a foul on Horsfield on 31 minutes and from the resulting free-kick Camp was forced to parry Hume's shot away from the danger zone.
Adam Bolder put his effort high and wide in the 37th minute before the Foxes came close two minutes later.
After good work by Newton down the right flank, Stephen Hughes unleashed a terrific effort which forced a fine save from Camp before Yeates' follow up shot was blocked for a corner.
In first half stoppage time, Hume was booked for a foul then Nygaard should have put his side a goal up but somehow drilled his close range shot wide when unmarked inside the six-yard box.
The Hoops took the lead within two minutes of the restart thanks to an Inigo Idiakez header.
Marcus Bignot's free-kick was met by Nygaard with the ball falling for the midfielder who had the simple task of directing his header past Henderson and into the back of the net for the opener.
And the visitors made it 2-0 on 51 minutes when Nygaard tucked away his penalty after Alan Maybury had been penalised for a push on Paul Furlong inside the area.
With City desperate for a way back into the game, Horsfield made way for Elvis Hammond on 63 minutes with Steve Lomas also replacing goalscorer Idiakez.
The Hoops went three goals clear in the 68th minute thanks to a moment of magic from Nygaard.
The ball found him wide on the right, and within a split second he hit an inch-perfect dipping effort from 25-yards which sailed over Henderson and into the net for a wonder goal.
The hosts made a double change in the 75th minute with Stephen Hughes coming off for Danny Tiatto and James Wesolowski replacing Jarrett.
Furlong was booked on 80 minutes before Newton put his effort over the bar and then Ray Jones came on for Furlong soon after.
Patrick Kisnorbo had a late header cleared off the line in the 85th minute then Camp saved well at the feet of Newton as City looked for a consolation.
Jimmy Smith replaced Ainsworth and Jones was booked for a foul on Darren Kenton.
Hume bagged a late consolation from the spot but it proved too little, too late for Rob Kelly's men.
City: Henderson, Maybury, Kenton, Kisnorbo ©, Johansson, Newton, Jarrett (Wesolowski 75), Hughes (Tiatto 75), Yeates, Hume, Horsfield (Hammond 63). Subs not used: Logan, Stearman.
QPR: Camp, Mancienne, Cullip, Stewart, Bignot ©, Bolder, Ainsworth (Smith 88), Idiakez (Lomas 63), Cook, Furlong (Jones 83), Nygaard. Subs not used: Cole, Kanyuka.
Yellow Cards
City: Johansson (10), Hume (45)
QPR: Stewart (26), Cullip (31), Furlong (80), Jones (89)
Referee: Neil Swarbrick (Lancashire)
Attendance: 24,558
Goals :
Hume 90 + 3 (pen)
Idiakez 47
Nygaard 51 (pen)
Nygaard 68 Leicester
PHOTOS FROM LEICESTER (Leicester Official Site)
Ending a goaless away run dating back to mid-November, QPR today travelled to Leicester and won 3-1. Halftime was 0-0. Second half goals Idiakez, Nygaard (penalty) and Nygaard again.
Table:
Leicester 38 46
Burnley 37 41
Hull 39 41
Barnsley 39 41
QPR 38 40
Southend 39 39
Luton 39 36
Leeds 39 36
Updated Table
QPR OFFICIAL SITE FOXES 1-3 QPR
A sensational second-half strike from Marc Nygaard capped Rangers' first away win in four months as they lifted themselves out of the bottom three.
Nygaard's stunning volley, his second of the game, put John Gregory's side into a 3-0 lead midway through the second half and, despite a late Leicester goal, it was enough for a morale-boosting victory.
Neither side could carve out many chances in a tepid first half as Leicester's Jason Jarrett bundled his finish wide of Lee Camp's goal.
At the other end, Lee Cook's cross picked out Paul Furlong, whose looping header sailed well wide of the target.
Leicester keeper Paul Henderson was finally called into action just before the half-hour mark when he fended Gareth Ainsworth's cross-cum-shot behind but the corner, from Inigo Idiakez, went astray.
Idiakez latched onto a half-chance when Nygaard nodded back Cook's cross, but the Spaniard's half-volley sailed into the stand.
Camp was the busier of the two keepers, fielding a 25-yarder from Alan Maybury and then leaping to his right to push away Iain Hume's curling free-kick from 25 yards.
And Camp then produced a magnificent block to parry Stephen Hughes' piledriver after Hume's shot had deflected off Damion Stewart.
On the stroke of half-time, though, the ball broke to Nygaard inside the penalty area, but he blazed wide and was relieved to see the linesman's flag raised for an offside decision.
There was nothing to prevent Rangers celebrating a goal just over a minute after the restart, though, as Nygaard nodded back Cook's free-kick and Idiakez powered a header beyond Henderson.
Suddenly the Rs were beginning to swarm forward with confidence and the home side scrambled Adam Bolder's cross behind before Furlong could reach it.
That respite was short-lived, though, and referee Neil Swarbrick pointed to the spot after a push by Maybury, giving Rangers an opportunity to double their lead.
In the absence of Rowlands, Nygaard took on the responsibility and the big Dane made no mistake, calmly slotting low to Henderson's right.
Leicester's response was to bring on ex-Fulham striker Elvis Hammond and he quickly scampered on to a Hume pass, but was halted by Stewart's timely challenge.
And Leicester were shattered by a third goal that came out of nowhere in the 68th minute - Furlong flicking on Camp's clearance for Nygaard who, from 30 yards out, lashed an astonishing volley into the net from wide on the right.
With 15 minutes remaining, Danny Cullip charged down a shot from Hammond and Rangers broke again, but Gareth Ainsworth's cross was plucked out of the air by Henderson.
With disgruntled Leicester fans spilling out of the stadium, those still inside must have known it was not their day when Camp spilled Danny Tiatto's deep free-kick and the ball rebounded to Shaun Newton, who blazed wildly over the bar.
There was a late scare for Rangers when Cook cleared Patrick Kisnorbo's header off the line and, in another penalty area scramble, Camp denied Newton from close range.
But Leicester gained a consolation in added time when Cullip handled Hume's cross and the striker smashed the spot-kick past Camp.
Leicester City: Paul Henderson, Alan Maybury, Darren Kenton, Patrick Kisnorbo, Nils-Eric Johansson, Shaun Newton, Jason Jarrett (James Wesolowski 77), Stephen Hughes (Danny Tiatto 77), Mark Yeates, Iain Hume, Geoff Horsfield (Elvis Hammond 63).
Subs not used: Conrad Logan, Richard Stearman.
Goals: Hume 90 (pen)
Bookings: Johansson, Hume
QPR: Lee Camp, Michael Mancienne, Danny Cullip, Damion Stewart, Marcus Bignot, Adam Bolder,
Gareth Ainsworth (Jimmy Smith 89), Inigo Idiakez (Steve Lomas 63), Lee Cook, Paul Furlong (Ray Jones 84), Marc Nygaard.
Subs not used: Jake Cole, Patrick Kanyuka.
Goals: Idiakez 47, Nygaard 51 (pen), 68
Bookings: Stewart, Cullip, Furlong, Jones
Att: 24,558 QPR Official Site
LEICESTER OFFICIAL SITE - Leicester 1 QPR 3
Leicester City suffered their first home defeat since New Year's Day as they went down 3-1 against Queens Park Rangers at the Walkers Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Two goals inside four minutes at the start of the second half from Inigo Idiakez and a Marc Nygaard penalty did the damage before a Nygaard wonder goal sealed matters.
It proved to be a bad day at the office for the hosts with Iain Hume's 12th of the campaign from the penalty spot late on proving scant consolation.
Stephen Hughes, Mark Yeates and Shaun Newton came close but they could not prevent the home side suffering their second defeat in nine matches.
Lee Camp saved well from Hume on two minutes after the diminutive striker had jinked his way into the penalty area.
Both Hume and Geoff Horsfield just failed to connect with the returning Mark Yeates' dangerous cross from the left two minutes later.
Jason Jarrett tried his luck from 30-yards in the ninth minute but Camp was equal to the task and saved comfortably.
Nils-Eric Johansson was booked for a deliberate hand ball a minute later before Jarrett stabbed his effort wide from close range after Newton's cross from the right.
At the other end Paul Furlong headed wide from Lee Cook's cross then Camp dived to his left to deny Alan Maybury from long distance on 22 minutes.
After Horsfield broke up a QPR attack on the half-way line, he released Yeates who raced clear before curling an effort just wide of the right-hand upright.
Damion Stewart was cautioned for a lunge on Hume in the 26th minute.
Paul Henderson had to divert Gareth Ainsworth's cross out for a corner moments later as the visitors tried to stamp their authority on the contest.
Danny Cullip was yellow-carded following a foul on Horsfield on 31 minutes and from the resulting free-kick Camp was forced to parry Hume's shot away from the danger zone.
Adam Bolder put his effort high and wide in the 37th minute before the Foxes came close two minutes later.
After good work by Newton down the right flank, Stephen Hughes unleashed a terrific effort which forced a fine save from Camp before Yeates' follow up shot was blocked for a corner.
In first half stoppage time, Hume was booked for a foul then Nygaard should have put his side a goal up but somehow drilled his close range shot wide when unmarked inside the six-yard box.
The Hoops took the lead within two minutes of the restart thanks to an Inigo Idiakez header.
Marcus Bignot's free-kick was met by Nygaard with the ball falling for the midfielder who had the simple task of directing his header past Henderson and into the back of the net for the opener.
And the visitors made it 2-0 on 51 minutes when Nygaard tucked away his penalty after Alan Maybury had been penalised for a push on Paul Furlong inside the area.
With City desperate for a way back into the game, Horsfield made way for Elvis Hammond on 63 minutes with Steve Lomas also replacing goalscorer Idiakez.
The Hoops went three goals clear in the 68th minute thanks to a moment of magic from Nygaard.
The ball found him wide on the right, and within a split second he hit an inch-perfect dipping effort from 25-yards which sailed over Henderson and into the net for a wonder goal.
The hosts made a double change in the 75th minute with Stephen Hughes coming off for Danny Tiatto and James Wesolowski replacing Jarrett.
Furlong was booked on 80 minutes before Newton put his effort over the bar and then Ray Jones came on for Furlong soon after.
Patrick Kisnorbo had a late header cleared off the line in the 85th minute then Camp saved well at the feet of Newton as City looked for a consolation.
Jimmy Smith replaced Ainsworth and Jones was booked for a foul on Darren Kenton.
Hume bagged a late consolation from the spot but it proved too little, too late for Rob Kelly's men.
City: Henderson, Maybury, Kenton, Kisnorbo ©, Johansson, Newton, Jarrett (Wesolowski 75), Hughes (Tiatto 75), Yeates, Hume, Horsfield (Hammond 63). Subs not used: Logan, Stearman.
QPR: Camp, Mancienne, Cullip, Stewart, Bignot ©, Bolder, Ainsworth (Smith 88), Idiakez (Lomas 63), Cook, Furlong (Jones 83), Nygaard. Subs not used: Cole, Kanyuka.
Yellow Cards
City: Johansson (10), Hume (45)
QPR: Stewart (26), Cullip (31), Furlong (80), Jones (89)
Referee: Neil Swarbrick (Lancashire)
Attendance: 24,558
Goals :
Hume 90 + 3 (pen)
Idiakez 47
Nygaard 51 (pen)
Nygaard 68 Leicester
PHOTOS FROM LEICESTER (Leicester Official Site)
QPR's Game at Leicester
-
QPR Travel to Leicester today for yet another crucial game for QPR. Leicester are almost safe with 46 points from 37 games - Table
Leicester's home record is 6 wins, 7 draws, 5 defeats (scoring 21 letting in 19). QPR's Away record: 3 wins, 5 draws and 11 defeats - Scored 18; let in 34.
(QPR have gone 10 away Championship games without a win - 2 draws and 8 defeats. Their last away win was at Cardiff back in November, although they came very close on Tuesday).
Of course, just over a year ago, QPR's then manager Ian Holloway was given permission to talk to Leicester (what exactly occurred is just a little "murky") about becoming their new manager. QPR's Chairman, Gianni Paladini then turned around and placed Holloway on "Gardening Leave" for talking to Leicester. In the epic words of the Chairman "If a man is happily married why would he look for another woman?"
Leicester's Results this Season - Results
Leicester's Squad - Squad
[Note: Looking at Leicester's website: Something very clever but very simple that QPR could easiy adopt: The players' sponsors are listed online - Players Sponsors
Sporting Life - FRYATT TO RETURN FOR FOXES
Leicester's striking options could be boosted by the return of Matty Fryatt for Saturday's Championship visit of QPR to the Walkers Stadium.
Fryatt has been sidelined since suffering a foot injury in the 3-2 defeat at Cardiff on January 27 but returned to training prior to last week's defeat at Crystal Palace and has stepped up his recovery this week.
The Foxes have no fresh injury worries as they look to return to winning ways after a loss and a draw in their last two outings.
Assistant manager Mike Stowell said: "Everyone has trained this week and Paddy McCarthy (shoulder) and Rab Douglas (knee) are our only absentees at the moment.
"You always have a few bumps and bruises around the place because it is a physical game but we are looking good ahead of Saturday."
QPR could be without Dexter Blackstock and Martin Rowlands for Saturday's Championship clash at Leicester.
Former Southampton striker Blackstock is still struggling with the hamstring injury which kept him out of the 1-1 draw at Derby in midweek, and midfield man Rowlands suffered a similar injury at Pride Park.
Rangers boss John Gregory said: "We could not risk Dexter at Derby, as much as he wanted to play. He is touch-and-go again for Saturday.
"Rowly limped off with a hamstring injury at Derby. It is not serious, but it might be enough to keep him out of the squad this weekend.
"The two-week break could be a blessing for us in terms of getting our players back to full fitness."
Midfielder Marc Bircham remains sidelined with a back injury.
Sporting LIfe
LEICESTER OFFICIAL SITE
Head To Head: QPR
We take a look back at previous encounters between the two clubs and reveal all the facts and figures ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD
The two clubs have met 48 times previously in all competitions, 45 of which have come in the league. Leicester have won just 18 of the clashes overall, with 13 of those successes coming in the East Midlands. Rangers have managed just 5 victories in 22 visits to Leicester.
EARLY MEETINGS
The first meeting came in Division Two as recently as 1948-49. Rangers completed the double over City that year. City did, however, win each of the next five Filbert Street clashes.
RECENT HISTORY
Last October, the teams drew 1-1 in Shepherd's Bush, with Patrick Kisnorbo heading an early goal for the Foxes before Gareth McAuley was red carded for handling a goalbound effort and Paddy McCarthy reappeared after injury wearing that Phantom of the Opera mask. Last season's encounter at the Walkers Stadium was also marked by a Leicester dismissal: Alan Maybury was sent for an early bath as the visitors won a poor game by 2-1 - Elvis Hammond being City's goalscorer.
BIGGEST WINS
Only once has either team hit six goals in this fixture, a feat achieved by City in a 6-2 home win in 1950-51. QPR's best was a 5-2 win at Loftus Road in an F A Cup tie in 1986-87, when Terry Fenwick scored twice for the Londoners.
MARKSMEN
Rangers' Bert Addinall and City's Arthur Rowley are the only players to have registered hat-tricks in clashes between the two clubs, and neither more recently than 1951. Addinall is the leading overall scorer in the series, with 9 counters against the Foxes, whereas City's top marksman is none other than Gary Lineker, who has pierced the Rangers' defence 6 times.
DEBUTANTS
Just 3 players have made their Leicester bow when QPR provided the opposition, but what a trio: British record signing Allan Clarke in 1968, young Joe Waters in that sensational F A Cup quarter-final in 1974, and teenager Emile Heskey, currently City record outgoing transfer holder, in 1995.
FOOT IN BOTH CAMPS
The smattering of players to have represented both clubs over the years includes Arthur Chandler, Peter Eastoe, Terry Fenwick, Les Ferdinand, Bob Hazell, Andrew Impey, Robbie James, Eddie Kelly, Frank Large, Frank McLintock, Stefan Moore, John O'Neill, Simon Royce, Dean Sturridge and David Webb. Leicester
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PREVIEW
Hope suddenly springs eternal at The Walkers Stadium in the wake of the arrival of former Pompey Chairman Milan Mandaric.
Mandaric has taken full control of the Championship side after an Extraordinary General Meeting concluded the transfer of ownership last week.
The ex-Portsmouth owner's offer for the Foxes was accepted by club shareholders in February, but he has now been confirmed as executive chairman.
Mandaric believes the club's facilities and fan base mean it will only be a matter of time before they are Premiership club.
"In everything but name this is a Premiership club,'' he said.
"When I became frustrated during the buying process the fans still came out in their numbers."
Whether or not Mandaric's off-the-field ambitions can be matched by the players on it remains to be seen though.
The Foxes currently sit 16th in the Championship - nine points clear of the relegation zone and 17 points off the play-off's.
The Foxes could be ready to call on star striker Matty Fryatt.
Fryatt's recovery from a foot injury took another positive step forward earlier this week with his most active involvement yet in a training session.
Rangers seem certain to recall Dexter Blackstock for the trip to The Walkers Stadium.
Blackstock missed the 1-1 draw with Derby County on Tuesday night with a hamstring injury, but should be fit to return to John Gregory's squad.
Martin Rowlands - who limped off moments after scoring at Pride Park - will undergo a late fitness test for the R's, but Lee Camp and Adam Bolder are free to return, after missing out under the terms of their respective loan and permanent moves from the Rams.
Top scorer (league goals only): Iain HUME 11
Last league game:
Leicester City 1, Leeds United 1.
Coca Cola Championship.
March 13th 2007.
Leicester City: Henderson, Maybury, McAuley, Kisnorbo, Johansson, Newton, Jarrett, Hughes, Porter, Hume, Horsfield (Hammond 66).
Subs Not Used: Logan, Yeates, Tiatto, Stearman.
...Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
Leicester City 8/11 QPR 10/3 Draw 12/5 ...
Head to head:
Leicester wins: 17 - QPR wins: 19 Draws: 9
Last meeting:
Queens Park Rangers 1 (Rowlands), Leicester City 1 (Kisnorbo).
Coca Cola Championship. October 28th 2006.
QPR Official Site
QPRNet's Ron Norris & Simon Skinner Preview - QPR Net Preview
Tracy Stent/QPR Rivals - Match Preview
QPR Travel to Leicester today for yet another crucial game for QPR. Leicester are almost safe with 46 points from 37 games - Table
Leicester's home record is 6 wins, 7 draws, 5 defeats (scoring 21 letting in 19). QPR's Away record: 3 wins, 5 draws and 11 defeats - Scored 18; let in 34.
(QPR have gone 10 away Championship games without a win - 2 draws and 8 defeats. Their last away win was at Cardiff back in November, although they came very close on Tuesday).
Of course, just over a year ago, QPR's then manager Ian Holloway was given permission to talk to Leicester (what exactly occurred is just a little "murky") about becoming their new manager. QPR's Chairman, Gianni Paladini then turned around and placed Holloway on "Gardening Leave" for talking to Leicester. In the epic words of the Chairman "If a man is happily married why would he look for another woman?"
Leicester's Results this Season - Results
Leicester's Squad - Squad
[Note: Looking at Leicester's website: Something very clever but very simple that QPR could easiy adopt: The players' sponsors are listed online - Players Sponsors
Sporting Life - FRYATT TO RETURN FOR FOXES
Leicester's striking options could be boosted by the return of Matty Fryatt for Saturday's Championship visit of QPR to the Walkers Stadium.
Fryatt has been sidelined since suffering a foot injury in the 3-2 defeat at Cardiff on January 27 but returned to training prior to last week's defeat at Crystal Palace and has stepped up his recovery this week.
The Foxes have no fresh injury worries as they look to return to winning ways after a loss and a draw in their last two outings.
Assistant manager Mike Stowell said: "Everyone has trained this week and Paddy McCarthy (shoulder) and Rab Douglas (knee) are our only absentees at the moment.
"You always have a few bumps and bruises around the place because it is a physical game but we are looking good ahead of Saturday."
QPR could be without Dexter Blackstock and Martin Rowlands for Saturday's Championship clash at Leicester.
Former Southampton striker Blackstock is still struggling with the hamstring injury which kept him out of the 1-1 draw at Derby in midweek, and midfield man Rowlands suffered a similar injury at Pride Park.
Rangers boss John Gregory said: "We could not risk Dexter at Derby, as much as he wanted to play. He is touch-and-go again for Saturday.
"Rowly limped off with a hamstring injury at Derby. It is not serious, but it might be enough to keep him out of the squad this weekend.
"The two-week break could be a blessing for us in terms of getting our players back to full fitness."
Midfielder Marc Bircham remains sidelined with a back injury.
Sporting LIfe
LEICESTER OFFICIAL SITE
Head To Head: QPR
We take a look back at previous encounters between the two clubs and reveal all the facts and figures ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD
The two clubs have met 48 times previously in all competitions, 45 of which have come in the league. Leicester have won just 18 of the clashes overall, with 13 of those successes coming in the East Midlands. Rangers have managed just 5 victories in 22 visits to Leicester.
EARLY MEETINGS
The first meeting came in Division Two as recently as 1948-49. Rangers completed the double over City that year. City did, however, win each of the next five Filbert Street clashes.
RECENT HISTORY
Last October, the teams drew 1-1 in Shepherd's Bush, with Patrick Kisnorbo heading an early goal for the Foxes before Gareth McAuley was red carded for handling a goalbound effort and Paddy McCarthy reappeared after injury wearing that Phantom of the Opera mask. Last season's encounter at the Walkers Stadium was also marked by a Leicester dismissal: Alan Maybury was sent for an early bath as the visitors won a poor game by 2-1 - Elvis Hammond being City's goalscorer.
BIGGEST WINS
Only once has either team hit six goals in this fixture, a feat achieved by City in a 6-2 home win in 1950-51. QPR's best was a 5-2 win at Loftus Road in an F A Cup tie in 1986-87, when Terry Fenwick scored twice for the Londoners.
MARKSMEN
Rangers' Bert Addinall and City's Arthur Rowley are the only players to have registered hat-tricks in clashes between the two clubs, and neither more recently than 1951. Addinall is the leading overall scorer in the series, with 9 counters against the Foxes, whereas City's top marksman is none other than Gary Lineker, who has pierced the Rangers' defence 6 times.
DEBUTANTS
Just 3 players have made their Leicester bow when QPR provided the opposition, but what a trio: British record signing Allan Clarke in 1968, young Joe Waters in that sensational F A Cup quarter-final in 1974, and teenager Emile Heskey, currently City record outgoing transfer holder, in 1995.
FOOT IN BOTH CAMPS
The smattering of players to have represented both clubs over the years includes Arthur Chandler, Peter Eastoe, Terry Fenwick, Les Ferdinand, Bob Hazell, Andrew Impey, Robbie James, Eddie Kelly, Frank Large, Frank McLintock, Stefan Moore, John O'Neill, Simon Royce, Dean Sturridge and David Webb. Leicester
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PREVIEW
Hope suddenly springs eternal at The Walkers Stadium in the wake of the arrival of former Pompey Chairman Milan Mandaric.
Mandaric has taken full control of the Championship side after an Extraordinary General Meeting concluded the transfer of ownership last week.
The ex-Portsmouth owner's offer for the Foxes was accepted by club shareholders in February, but he has now been confirmed as executive chairman.
Mandaric believes the club's facilities and fan base mean it will only be a matter of time before they are Premiership club.
"In everything but name this is a Premiership club,'' he said.
"When I became frustrated during the buying process the fans still came out in their numbers."
Whether or not Mandaric's off-the-field ambitions can be matched by the players on it remains to be seen though.
The Foxes currently sit 16th in the Championship - nine points clear of the relegation zone and 17 points off the play-off's.
The Foxes could be ready to call on star striker Matty Fryatt.
Fryatt's recovery from a foot injury took another positive step forward earlier this week with his most active involvement yet in a training session.
Rangers seem certain to recall Dexter Blackstock for the trip to The Walkers Stadium.
Blackstock missed the 1-1 draw with Derby County on Tuesday night with a hamstring injury, but should be fit to return to John Gregory's squad.
Martin Rowlands - who limped off moments after scoring at Pride Park - will undergo a late fitness test for the R's, but Lee Camp and Adam Bolder are free to return, after missing out under the terms of their respective loan and permanent moves from the Rams.
Top scorer (league goals only): Iain HUME 11
Last league game:
Leicester City 1, Leeds United 1.
Coca Cola Championship.
March 13th 2007.
Leicester City: Henderson, Maybury, McAuley, Kisnorbo, Johansson, Newton, Jarrett, Hughes, Porter, Hume, Horsfield (Hammond 66).
Subs Not Used: Logan, Yeates, Tiatto, Stearman.
...Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
Leicester City 8/11 QPR 10/3 Draw 12/5 ...
Head to head:
Leicester wins: 17 - QPR wins: 19 Draws: 9
Last meeting:
Queens Park Rangers 1 (Rowlands), Leicester City 1 (Kisnorbo).
Coca Cola Championship. October 28th 2006.
QPR Official Site
QPRNet's Ron Norris & Simon Skinner Preview - QPR Net Preview
Tracy Stent/QPR Rivals - Match Preview
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