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BBC Gossip citing the Star...Clubcall...Teamtalk are all suggesting a renewed Fulham interest in Lee Cook.
Welcome to QPR REPORT - A completely unofficial and unaffiliated fan site focusing on G-d's Chosen Team, Queen's Park Rangers (QPR) FC. (Visit also QPR Report Messageboard and Follow on Twitter.) QPR Report accepts no sponsorship, advertising or financial contributions. In 2008, QPR Report was named as one of the top two blogs in the Football League
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Alan McDonald as Glentoran Look Again for a Manager
-
Belfast Telegraph - Euro licence row sees Roy walking
... and former international ace McDonald's in line to take over
Sunday, May 27, 2007
By Gordon Hanna & Conor McLaughlin
Glentoran were last night facing the prospect of appointing their third manager in little over two weeks.
Former Crusaders and Glenavon supremo Roy Walker was landed with the role on Thursday before news broke that his lack of coaching qualifications could cost the Glens their UEFA Cup place next season.
Our sources indicate that, after getting themselves into a muddle over ways and means of working around the Licences issue, Glentoran bigwigs have realised they were left with just two options - appoint a new boss or pull out of Europe.
They cannot compete in Europe if Walker stays because, despite his considerable knowledge and past successes, he doesn't have any recognised coaching qualifications.
It now appears that First Team Coach Alan McDonald could be set to step into the breach - permanently!
The Glens were awarded their UEFA Club Licence for the 2007/08 season on the understanding that Paul Millar - who was equipped with the necessary badges - would be at the helm.
His sacking almost two weeks ago did not affect Glentoran's Licence, but Walker's appointment most certainly did and the east Belfast side were set to have it revoked, thus excluding them from not only continental competition, but from the Setanta Sports Cup also.
That, in turn, would have impacted upon other Irish League clubs with Cliftonville - currently preparing for next month's InterToto showdown with FC Dinaburg of Latvia - promoted to the UEFA Cup and Lisburn Distillery given just a matter of weeks' notice to take on the Baltic outfit.
Club Licenses are awarded based on a number of criteria, one of which is that the team's Manager or Head Coach must have obtained either a...
- UEFA 'Pro' Diploma
- UEFA 'A' Licence
... and, if he is in possession of neither, must have at least started a UEFA 'A' Licence course.
And Walker, who led Crusaders to the Irish League title in 1995 and 1997, owns none of the above, nor has he obtained the UEFA 'B' Licence required to begin the 'A' course.
Yesterday, as the story began to unfold, he said: "I'm disappointed that presently I am not in a position to take up the offer from Glentoran.
"Myself and Alan [McDonald] were excited about working together and we talked about introducing new players but those plans are now scuppered somewhat.
"There are ways you could be creative around it but I want Glentoran to act with integrity and do everything correctly.
"As I understand it I am unable to be Glentoran manager if there's no way round it."
Rumour had been rife that, in order to combat the problem, Glentoran would appoint 52-times capped McDonald to the managerial role on a temporary basis, with Walker taking over the reins once their Euro excursion came to an end - a tactic which could have thrown up its own problems had the Glens made any sort of real progress in the competition!
McDonald has a 'Pro' Licence and was believed to be on the verge of taking over for a six-week stint, allowing Walker to take over ahead of the CIS Cup kicking off in August.
Director of Football Tom Dick had hinted that might be the case earlier in the week when he explained that: "Roy Walker won't be on duty in Europe anyway as he is away on a pre-booked holiday. His job doesn't start until the beginning of the season.
"Alan McDonald is staying at the club and he has a UEFA licence so nothing will be affected," he said.
"It is not an issue and we wouldn't have appointed him [Walker] if it had been an issue."
Such a move would not have been viewed in a favourable light by UEFA, however, as an IFA spokesman explained to Sunday Life yesterday.
"It would be a dangerous ploy to try and circumvent the regulations," he said.
"Any club found guilty of trying to do so would have UEFA to deal with and the consequences would be grave.
"Expulsion from Europe would be automatic and there would be additional sanctions."
Clubs qualifying for the UEFA Cup are guaranteed in the region of £60,000 - £70,000 and that would be withdrawn.
The IFA source added: "Licences to compete in Europe are granted on the back of certain criteria and are in place for a year.
"There can be no shortcuts. If Glentoran declare that Roy Walker is not the manager/head coach then he could have no say in team selection or team tactics for the next year.
"It's up to Glentoran to clarify exactly what role Roy Walker and Alan McDonald will be playing."
Sunday Life understands that former Northern Ireland international McDonald has been offered the job and is set to give Oval chiefs his answer tomorrow.
Last night, the 43-year-old - who joined the club's coaching staff midway through last season - was remaining tight-lipped about the dramatic twist.
The former QPR star insisted the Manager's job had NOT been offered to him, adding his determination that the situation be resolved as soon as possible.
"I am employed as Glentoran's First Team Coach," he explained, " and that is what I expect to be for the foreseeable future.
"It [the Manager's job] has not been put to me and I expect things will become a lot clearer tomorrow.
"It needs to be sorted out soon."
The Irish Football Association insist that Glentoran were fully advised of the situation BEFORE they appointed Walker to the post. Belfast Telegraph
Belfast Telegraph - Euro licence row sees Roy walking
... and former international ace McDonald's in line to take over
Sunday, May 27, 2007
By Gordon Hanna & Conor McLaughlin
Glentoran were last night facing the prospect of appointing their third manager in little over two weeks.
Former Crusaders and Glenavon supremo Roy Walker was landed with the role on Thursday before news broke that his lack of coaching qualifications could cost the Glens their UEFA Cup place next season.
Our sources indicate that, after getting themselves into a muddle over ways and means of working around the Licences issue, Glentoran bigwigs have realised they were left with just two options - appoint a new boss or pull out of Europe.
They cannot compete in Europe if Walker stays because, despite his considerable knowledge and past successes, he doesn't have any recognised coaching qualifications.
It now appears that First Team Coach Alan McDonald could be set to step into the breach - permanently!
The Glens were awarded their UEFA Club Licence for the 2007/08 season on the understanding that Paul Millar - who was equipped with the necessary badges - would be at the helm.
His sacking almost two weeks ago did not affect Glentoran's Licence, but Walker's appointment most certainly did and the east Belfast side were set to have it revoked, thus excluding them from not only continental competition, but from the Setanta Sports Cup also.
That, in turn, would have impacted upon other Irish League clubs with Cliftonville - currently preparing for next month's InterToto showdown with FC Dinaburg of Latvia - promoted to the UEFA Cup and Lisburn Distillery given just a matter of weeks' notice to take on the Baltic outfit.
Club Licenses are awarded based on a number of criteria, one of which is that the team's Manager or Head Coach must have obtained either a...
- UEFA 'Pro' Diploma
- UEFA 'A' Licence
... and, if he is in possession of neither, must have at least started a UEFA 'A' Licence course.
And Walker, who led Crusaders to the Irish League title in 1995 and 1997, owns none of the above, nor has he obtained the UEFA 'B' Licence required to begin the 'A' course.
Yesterday, as the story began to unfold, he said: "I'm disappointed that presently I am not in a position to take up the offer from Glentoran.
"Myself and Alan [McDonald] were excited about working together and we talked about introducing new players but those plans are now scuppered somewhat.
"There are ways you could be creative around it but I want Glentoran to act with integrity and do everything correctly.
"As I understand it I am unable to be Glentoran manager if there's no way round it."
Rumour had been rife that, in order to combat the problem, Glentoran would appoint 52-times capped McDonald to the managerial role on a temporary basis, with Walker taking over the reins once their Euro excursion came to an end - a tactic which could have thrown up its own problems had the Glens made any sort of real progress in the competition!
McDonald has a 'Pro' Licence and was believed to be on the verge of taking over for a six-week stint, allowing Walker to take over ahead of the CIS Cup kicking off in August.
Director of Football Tom Dick had hinted that might be the case earlier in the week when he explained that: "Roy Walker won't be on duty in Europe anyway as he is away on a pre-booked holiday. His job doesn't start until the beginning of the season.
"Alan McDonald is staying at the club and he has a UEFA licence so nothing will be affected," he said.
"It is not an issue and we wouldn't have appointed him [Walker] if it had been an issue."
Such a move would not have been viewed in a favourable light by UEFA, however, as an IFA spokesman explained to Sunday Life yesterday.
"It would be a dangerous ploy to try and circumvent the regulations," he said.
"Any club found guilty of trying to do so would have UEFA to deal with and the consequences would be grave.
"Expulsion from Europe would be automatic and there would be additional sanctions."
Clubs qualifying for the UEFA Cup are guaranteed in the region of £60,000 - £70,000 and that would be withdrawn.
The IFA source added: "Licences to compete in Europe are granted on the back of certain criteria and are in place for a year.
"There can be no shortcuts. If Glentoran declare that Roy Walker is not the manager/head coach then he could have no say in team selection or team tactics for the next year.
"It's up to Glentoran to clarify exactly what role Roy Walker and Alan McDonald will be playing."
Sunday Life understands that former Northern Ireland international McDonald has been offered the job and is set to give Oval chiefs his answer tomorrow.
Last night, the 43-year-old - who joined the club's coaching staff midway through last season - was remaining tight-lipped about the dramatic twist.
The former QPR star insisted the Manager's job had NOT been offered to him, adding his determination that the situation be resolved as soon as possible.
"I am employed as Glentoran's First Team Coach," he explained, " and that is what I expect to be for the foreseeable future.
"It [the Manager's job] has not been put to me and I expect things will become a lot clearer tomorrow.
"It needs to be sorted out soon."
The Irish Football Association insist that Glentoran were fully advised of the situation BEFORE they appointed Walker to the post. Belfast Telegraph
25 Years Ago Today: The Cup Final Replay: "We Wuz Robbed!"
-
Twenty-Five Years ago today, "we wuz robbed!" Despite having Captain Glen Roeder suspended; brilliant striker Clive Allen injured; and star Defender Steve Wicks cup tied. Despite being an early goal down to a Glenn Hoddle penalty...STILL QPR deserved to win the FA Cup replay against Spurs at Wembley on May 27th 1982...But bottom line: Spurs beat QPR 1-0.
Hucker
Neil Fenwick Hazell Gillard
Gregory Waddock Currie Flanagan
Mickelwhite Stainrod
Sub: Burke
See: QPR Report re FA Cup Final
http://qprreport.blogspot.com/2007/05/quarter-of-century-since-qprs-fa-cup.html
See Wikipedia Memory
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FA_Cup_Final_1982
Twenty-Five Years ago today, "we wuz robbed!" Despite having Captain Glen Roeder suspended; brilliant striker Clive Allen injured; and star Defender Steve Wicks cup tied. Despite being an early goal down to a Glenn Hoddle penalty...STILL QPR deserved to win the FA Cup replay against Spurs at Wembley on May 27th 1982...But bottom line: Spurs beat QPR 1-0.
Hucker
Neil Fenwick Hazell Gillard
Gregory Waddock Currie Flanagan
Mickelwhite Stainrod
Sub: Burke
See: QPR Report re FA Cup Final
http://qprreport.blogspot.com/2007/05/quarter-of-century-since-qprs-fa-cup.html
See Wikipedia Memory
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FA_Cup_Final_1982
Marking Five Years Since QPR Exited Administration...Entered into ABC Loan
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Five years ago today, QPR left the ignomy of administration and started on what fans thought was a new path. There was the cloud of the ABC Loan, with fans wondering why the club had left Administration with a ten million pound debt. Not to mention, fans wondering exactly WHO was behind the ABC Loan. Over the past couple of years especially, there have been repeated reports and statements that QPR were set to refinance this loan at a lower rate than the current 10% (which in theory, could go even higher).
BBC Monday, 27 May, 2002 - Survival boost for QPR
By David McIntyre
BBC Sport - Second Division QPR have been taken out of administration.
The administration order was lifted following a hearing at the High Court on Monday.
Former chairman Chris Wright took a substantial write-off on his loans and handed back a large part of his shareholding in the club a few weeks ago.
We have faced some javascript:void(0)tough decisions and learned some hard lessons
David Davies QPR chief executive
His decision helped enable the repayment of debts to all the Loftus Road club's creditors.
Loftus Road chief executive David Davies said in a statement: "This is wonderful news and the conclusion of one of the darkest periods in our history.
"We have faced some tough decisions and learned some hard lessons.
"These are lessons which many clubs are now having to learn.
"We will come out of this experience in a much stronger position.
Wright retains stake
"Gone are the days when players will be paid excessive wages.
"When we first went into administration, QPR was highlighted as being run on the economics of a madhouse.
"What we have done is bring some sanity to the club."
Wright, the main creditor as well as owner, agreed to accept half of the £6.7m he was owed.
But he has retained a 25% stake in the company as well as ownership of the club's training ground.
Rangers failed to get out of the First Division despite a massive investment resulting from a floatation in the summer of 1996.
They were hard hit the money from 'parachute' payments given to relegated clubs ran out.
With a wage bill already far too big for the First Division the club dropped into Division Two last year and in April 2001 administrators BDO Stoy Hayward were called in.
Transfer embargo lifted
But as many clubs struggle following the collapse of ITV Digital, QPR find themselves in a strong position.
They have not budgeted for television money and have slashed their wage bill.
It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright
Ian Holloway
QPR manager
Current manager Ian Holloway also has highly-rated players in his squad such as Richard Langley, Clarke Carlisle, Terrell Forbes and Dan Shittu.
Holloway said: "QPR were the first into the tunnel and are coming out of it just as everyone else is going in.
"There must be a lot of worried clubs but we have learned hard lessons and now we are on solid ground at last.
"It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright."
Holloway will now be looking to add to his squad having been restricted by a transfer embargo, which will be lifted with immediate effect after the club was taken out of administration. BBC
Bucks Free Press - May 31, 2002 On QPR Out of Administration.
QPR on road to cash recovery QPR or to be strictly accurate, parent company Loftus Road plc are out of administration following a High Court ruling on Monday.
The plc and QPR went into administration in April 2001, but following a refinancing package finalised by the directors last week, the company has been able to pay off its creditors.
Chief executive David Davies said: "This is wonderful news and the conclusion of one of the darkest periods of our history. Having the administration order lifted marks the end of more than a year of tough financial decisions and hard work.
"This would not have been possible were it not for the commitment of coaches, players and backroom staff and the hard work of our administrators."
Mr Davies said, however, that one of the major factors in pulling the club back from the brink had been the supporters: "None it would have been possible without the support of the QPR fans. After seeing the club placed in administration, relegated and then lose more than half of our squad, they stuck by us in record numbers and continue to do so."
He went on to say that he felt the hard lessons learned would benefit the club in the future - "gone are the days when players will be paid excessive wages" - at a time when many clubs are on the verge of calling in the administrators. In the past, QPR had been highlighted as being run "on the economics of the madhouse."
But Mr Davies warned that although coming out of administration was a major step forward, much remained to be done on and off the field, although he was optimistic that the hard work of manager Ian Holloway and others would bear fruit.
"We don't suddenly have a magic wand to wave and make everything better. We are not suddenly flush with cash. With hard work and passion, we will improve this club but by bit and season by season.
"Ian Holloway has restored pride to the team and brought together a hungry and talented bunch of players. With the handcuffs of administration finally removed, we can start to build a solid future for QPR." Bucks Free Press
See Past QPR Reports compilations re ABC Loan:
October 27, 2006 - QPR's ABC Loan: What's Known
QPR Statement re Blitz Loan, ABC Refinancing
July 05, 2006 - QPR's Ongoing 10% per-annum ABC Loan & QPR's Efforts to Deal with it
April 14, 2006 - ABC, QPR & Derby County - Looking Back
April 18, 2007 - Approaching the Five Year Mark Since QPR's ABC Loan
Almost Five Years Since QPR's ABC Loan, Exit Administration and Takeover Efforts Ended
See Also:
QPR1st - May 2002
Clubs in Crisis - QPR
Old LSA News
Boardroom Blues
BBC - May 30, 2002 - Blackburn takes charge at QPR
Nick Blackburn has been installed as the new chairman of QPR, following the club's exit from administration last week.
Blackburn was vice-chairman to Chris Wright, and then acting chairman following Wright's resignation last year.
Rangers chief executive David Davies had been strongly tipped to take on the role of chairman, having helped steer the club through its crisis period.
However, Davies will be staying in his current job, while director Ross Jones has taken over as chairman of parent company Loftus Road plc. BBC
Five years ago today, QPR left the ignomy of administration and started on what fans thought was a new path. There was the cloud of the ABC Loan, with fans wondering why the club had left Administration with a ten million pound debt. Not to mention, fans wondering exactly WHO was behind the ABC Loan. Over the past couple of years especially, there have been repeated reports and statements that QPR were set to refinance this loan at a lower rate than the current 10% (which in theory, could go even higher).
BBC Monday, 27 May, 2002 - Survival boost for QPR
By David McIntyre
BBC Sport - Second Division QPR have been taken out of administration.
The administration order was lifted following a hearing at the High Court on Monday.
Former chairman Chris Wright took a substantial write-off on his loans and handed back a large part of his shareholding in the club a few weeks ago.
We have faced some javascript:void(0)tough decisions and learned some hard lessons
David Davies QPR chief executive
His decision helped enable the repayment of debts to all the Loftus Road club's creditors.
Loftus Road chief executive David Davies said in a statement: "This is wonderful news and the conclusion of one of the darkest periods in our history.
"We have faced some tough decisions and learned some hard lessons.
"These are lessons which many clubs are now having to learn.
"We will come out of this experience in a much stronger position.
Wright retains stake
"Gone are the days when players will be paid excessive wages.
"When we first went into administration, QPR was highlighted as being run on the economics of a madhouse.
"What we have done is bring some sanity to the club."
Wright, the main creditor as well as owner, agreed to accept half of the £6.7m he was owed.
But he has retained a 25% stake in the company as well as ownership of the club's training ground.
Rangers failed to get out of the First Division despite a massive investment resulting from a floatation in the summer of 1996.
They were hard hit the money from 'parachute' payments given to relegated clubs ran out.
With a wage bill already far too big for the First Division the club dropped into Division Two last year and in April 2001 administrators BDO Stoy Hayward were called in.
Transfer embargo lifted
But as many clubs struggle following the collapse of ITV Digital, QPR find themselves in a strong position.
They have not budgeted for television money and have slashed their wage bill.
It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright
Ian Holloway
QPR manager
Current manager Ian Holloway also has highly-rated players in his squad such as Richard Langley, Clarke Carlisle, Terrell Forbes and Dan Shittu.
Holloway said: "QPR were the first into the tunnel and are coming out of it just as everyone else is going in.
"There must be a lot of worried clubs but we have learned hard lessons and now we are on solid ground at last.
"It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright."
Holloway will now be looking to add to his squad having been restricted by a transfer embargo, which will be lifted with immediate effect after the club was taken out of administration. BBC
Bucks Free Press - May 31, 2002 On QPR Out of Administration.
QPR on road to cash recovery QPR or to be strictly accurate, parent company Loftus Road plc are out of administration following a High Court ruling on Monday.
The plc and QPR went into administration in April 2001, but following a refinancing package finalised by the directors last week, the company has been able to pay off its creditors.
Chief executive David Davies said: "This is wonderful news and the conclusion of one of the darkest periods of our history. Having the administration order lifted marks the end of more than a year of tough financial decisions and hard work.
"This would not have been possible were it not for the commitment of coaches, players and backroom staff and the hard work of our administrators."
Mr Davies said, however, that one of the major factors in pulling the club back from the brink had been the supporters: "None it would have been possible without the support of the QPR fans. After seeing the club placed in administration, relegated and then lose more than half of our squad, they stuck by us in record numbers and continue to do so."
He went on to say that he felt the hard lessons learned would benefit the club in the future - "gone are the days when players will be paid excessive wages" - at a time when many clubs are on the verge of calling in the administrators. In the past, QPR had been highlighted as being run "on the economics of the madhouse."
But Mr Davies warned that although coming out of administration was a major step forward, much remained to be done on and off the field, although he was optimistic that the hard work of manager Ian Holloway and others would bear fruit.
"We don't suddenly have a magic wand to wave and make everything better. We are not suddenly flush with cash. With hard work and passion, we will improve this club but by bit and season by season.
"Ian Holloway has restored pride to the team and brought together a hungry and talented bunch of players. With the handcuffs of administration finally removed, we can start to build a solid future for QPR." Bucks Free Press
See Past QPR Reports compilations re ABC Loan:
October 27, 2006 - QPR's ABC Loan: What's Known
QPR Statement re Blitz Loan, ABC Refinancing
July 05, 2006 - QPR's Ongoing 10% per-annum ABC Loan & QPR's Efforts to Deal with it
April 14, 2006 - ABC, QPR & Derby County - Looking Back
April 18, 2007 - Approaching the Five Year Mark Since QPR's ABC Loan
Almost Five Years Since QPR's ABC Loan, Exit Administration and Takeover Efforts Ended
See Also:
QPR1st - May 2002
Clubs in Crisis - QPR
Old LSA News
Boardroom Blues
BBC - May 30, 2002 - Blackburn takes charge at QPR
Nick Blackburn has been installed as the new chairman of QPR, following the club's exit from administration last week.
Blackburn was vice-chairman to Chris Wright, and then acting chairman following Wright's resignation last year.
Rangers chief executive David Davies had been strongly tipped to take on the role of chairman, having helped steer the club through its crisis period.
However, Davies will be staying in his current job, while director Ross Jones has taken over as chairman of parent company Loftus Road plc. BBC
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Updated QPR Calendar
-
As of June 6 -
JUNE
June 13 - Carling Cup First Round Draw Made (Carling Cup Games to be played Week of August 13)
June 14 - 2007-2008 Fixtures Come Out - Announcement
June 15 - QPR Holdings AGM - Latest Set of Accounts- Loss of Over 3 million Pounds
JULY
July ? Players Report back to training
July 15: Celtic Friendly at Loftus Road - Game
July 28: Wycombe Friendly (at Wycombe) - Announcement
AUGUST
August 3 - Fulham Friendly at Loftus Road (8pm) Announcement
August 11 - New Season Begins: Opening Game
At some point??? - QPR Still have a date with the FA over the China Brawl.
As of June 6 -
JUNE
June 13 - Carling Cup First Round Draw Made (Carling Cup Games to be played Week of August 13)
June 14 - 2007-2008 Fixtures Come Out - Announcement
June 15 - QPR Holdings AGM - Latest Set of Accounts- Loss of Over 3 million Pounds
JULY
July ? Players Report back to training
July 15: Celtic Friendly at Loftus Road - Game
July 28: Wycombe Friendly (at Wycombe) - Announcement
AUGUST
August 3 - Fulham Friendly at Loftus Road (8pm) Announcement
August 11 - New Season Begins: Opening Game
At some point??? - QPR Still have a date with the FA over the China Brawl.
QPR & Championship Statistics for 2006-07 Season
-
The Football League Magazine, 'League Leader' -"The Weekly Magazine of the Football League" (May 25, 2007) lists Championship Statistics for the 2006-2007 season (Pages 6-8)- Attendances, shots, corners, bookings, shooting stats, offsides, etc, etc: Football League's 'League Leader'
(No QPR Players in any of "the top" rankings)
Among QPR Players,highest ranking in the Actim Index
QPR Score Rank Positon
Lee Cook .................477 52 Midfielder
Dexter Blackstock ........472 58 Striker
Damion Stewart ...........459 67 Defender
TEAMS WITH THE MOST...
...yellow cards QPR 95 [but only 2 red cards)
Shots Without Scoring
Richard Langley (Luton) 29
Stephen McPhail (Cardiff) 28
Darren Potter (Wolverhampton) 26
Adam Bolder (QPR) 24
Colin Cameron (Coventry) 24
Rohan Ricketts (QPR) 24
...Assists
Gary McSheffrey (Birmingham) 18
Lee Cook (QPR) 13
Michael Chopra (Cardiff) 11...
Football League
FROM QPR Report May 7, 2007
QPR's 2006-07: Results, Attendances, Disciplinary Record and a Championship Comparison-
QPR's 2006/07 53 points: 14 Wins - 11 Draws - 21 Defeats 54 Goals for; 68 goals against (-14 Goal Difference)
QPR's Home Record: 9 Wins 6 Draws 8 Defeats Goals For: 31 Goals Against: 29
QPR's Away Record: 5 Wins 5 Draws 13 Defeats Goals For: 23 Goals Against: 39 -Table
Attendances: QPR ranked 19th in Championship Attendance Figures, averaging just under 13,000. (12,936). Highest Gate vs Stoke: 16,741 Lowest Gate: 10,811 vs Burnley. (In the Championship, Sunderland had the highest attendance, 31,887). Colchester averaged 5,466) - Attendances
Disciplinary Record: With 105 Yellow cards and 3 Red cards, QPR had one of the worst disciplinary records in the Championship. (Colchester had the best disciplinary record with 51 yellow cards and 2 red cards) - Disciplinary Record
Individual QPR Players's Disciplinary Record, Individual QPR Players' Disciplinary Record
Leading Goalscorers:
Jamie Cureton finished with 23 Championship goals. Michael Chopra got 22. (Dexter Blackstock got 13). Leading Goalscorers
QPR Goalscorers QPR Goalscorers
Assists: In the Championship, Lee Cook ranked 2nd (with 13) behind Brimingham's Garry McSheffrey (with 18) - Assists
Players Used: QPR Used 35 players during the season. (Leeds used 45; Colchester used 22.) -
QPR Appearances: Damion Stewart made the most appearances, missing just one game.
Also: QPR in Statistics
Others: Form Guide (Last Six Games)
Shooting (QPR 2 off the bottom)
QPR LAST SEASON (2005/06)
12 Wins...14 Draws 20 Defeats - Goals scored: 50 Goals Against65
QPR's Home Record: 7 Wins 7 Draws 9 Defeats Goals For: 24 Goals Against: 26
QPR's Away Record: 5 Wins 7 Draws 11 Defeats Goals For: 26 Goals Against: 39
PREVIOUS SEASONS ATTENDANCE NUMBERS
2005/06 13,440 -Attendance
2004/05 16,055 - Attendance
2003/04 (Promotion season) 14,784 - Attendance
2002/03 - 13,206 Attendance
QPR Report
See Also: QPR in 2006/07, Results, Scorers, Attendances, Month-by-Month Record, etc Result, Scorers, Attendances, Month-by-Month Record Football 365 Statistics
The Football League Magazine, 'League Leader' -"The Weekly Magazine of the Football League" (May 25, 2007) lists Championship Statistics for the 2006-2007 season (Pages 6-8)- Attendances, shots, corners, bookings, shooting stats, offsides, etc, etc: Football League's 'League Leader'
(No QPR Players in any of "the top" rankings)
Among QPR Players,highest ranking in the Actim Index
QPR Score Rank Positon
Lee Cook .................477 52 Midfielder
Dexter Blackstock ........472 58 Striker
Damion Stewart ...........459 67 Defender
TEAMS WITH THE MOST...
...yellow cards QPR 95 [but only 2 red cards)
Shots Without Scoring
Richard Langley (Luton) 29
Stephen McPhail (Cardiff) 28
Darren Potter (Wolverhampton) 26
Adam Bolder (QPR) 24
Colin Cameron (Coventry) 24
Rohan Ricketts (QPR) 24
...Assists
Gary McSheffrey (Birmingham) 18
Lee Cook (QPR) 13
Michael Chopra (Cardiff) 11...
Football League
FROM QPR Report May 7, 2007
QPR's 2006-07: Results, Attendances, Disciplinary Record and a Championship Comparison-
QPR's 2006/07 53 points: 14 Wins - 11 Draws - 21 Defeats 54 Goals for; 68 goals against (-14 Goal Difference)
QPR's Home Record: 9 Wins 6 Draws 8 Defeats Goals For: 31 Goals Against: 29
QPR's Away Record: 5 Wins 5 Draws 13 Defeats Goals For: 23 Goals Against: 39 -Table
Attendances: QPR ranked 19th in Championship Attendance Figures, averaging just under 13,000. (12,936). Highest Gate vs Stoke: 16,741 Lowest Gate: 10,811 vs Burnley. (In the Championship, Sunderland had the highest attendance, 31,887). Colchester averaged 5,466) - Attendances
Disciplinary Record: With 105 Yellow cards and 3 Red cards, QPR had one of the worst disciplinary records in the Championship. (Colchester had the best disciplinary record with 51 yellow cards and 2 red cards) - Disciplinary Record
Individual QPR Players's Disciplinary Record, Individual QPR Players' Disciplinary Record
Leading Goalscorers:
Jamie Cureton finished with 23 Championship goals. Michael Chopra got 22. (Dexter Blackstock got 13). Leading Goalscorers
QPR Goalscorers QPR Goalscorers
Assists: In the Championship, Lee Cook ranked 2nd (with 13) behind Brimingham's Garry McSheffrey (with 18) - Assists
Players Used: QPR Used 35 players during the season. (Leeds used 45; Colchester used 22.) -
QPR Appearances: Damion Stewart made the most appearances, missing just one game.
Also: QPR in Statistics
Others: Form Guide (Last Six Games)
Shooting (QPR 2 off the bottom)
QPR LAST SEASON (2005/06)
12 Wins...14 Draws 20 Defeats - Goals scored: 50 Goals Against65
QPR's Home Record: 7 Wins 7 Draws 9 Defeats Goals For: 24 Goals Against: 26
QPR's Away Record: 5 Wins 7 Draws 11 Defeats Goals For: 26 Goals Against: 39
PREVIOUS SEASONS ATTENDANCE NUMBERS
2005/06 13,440 -Attendance
2004/05 16,055 - Attendance
2003/04 (Promotion season) 14,784 - Attendance
2002/03 - 13,206 Attendance
QPR Report
See Also: QPR in 2006/07, Results, Scorers, Attendances, Month-by-Month Record, etc Result, Scorers, Attendances, Month-by-Month Record Football 365 Statistics
Friday, May 25, 2007
Ex-QPR Paul Bruce Released by Dagenham
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Former QPR player, Paul Bruce, 29 has been released by Dagenham. Bruce was at QPR until 2002, playing 37 games over a number of years.
BBC - Daggers let Cole and Bruce leave
Dagenham & Redbridge have released two members of their Conference-winning squad, reports BBC Essex.
Defender Tim Cole, 30, and midfielder Paul Bruce, 29, have been told they will not be offered new contracts. BBC
Dagenham & Redbridge Official Site - Player Movement
Football League Dagenham & Redbridge have not offered Tim Cole and Paul Bruce new contracts. Former Club Captain, Tim made over 300 appearances for the Club in a ten year spell having joined from Waltham Forest in 1997. Tim has now put pen to paper and signed for Thurrock FC in the Blue Square South League.
Paul joined from Queens Park Rangers in August 2002 and played over 120 games.
Dagenham
http://www.daggers.co.uk/maindex.cfm?section=news&page=news&startnum=2
Paul Bruce Profile - Profile
Bruce Profile
Former QPR player, Paul Bruce, 29 has been released by Dagenham. Bruce was at QPR until 2002, playing 37 games over a number of years.
BBC - Daggers let Cole and Bruce leave
Dagenham & Redbridge have released two members of their Conference-winning squad, reports BBC Essex.
Defender Tim Cole, 30, and midfielder Paul Bruce, 29, have been told they will not be offered new contracts. BBC
Dagenham & Redbridge Official Site - Player Movement
Football League Dagenham & Redbridge have not offered Tim Cole and Paul Bruce new contracts. Former Club Captain, Tim made over 300 appearances for the Club in a ten year spell having joined from Waltham Forest in 1997. Tim has now put pen to paper and signed for Thurrock FC in the Blue Square South League.
Paul joined from Queens Park Rangers in August 2002 and played over 120 games.
Dagenham
http://www.daggers.co.uk/maindex.cfm?section=news&page=news&startnum=2
Paul Bruce Profile - Profile
Bruce Profile
Alan McDonald to Stay On as Glentoran Coach
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Glentoran Official Site -Roy Walker unveiled as New Glentoran Manager Thursday 24 May
This morning (Thursday) at the Oval, saw Glentoran FC end speculation, by announcing that it had appointed Roy Walker, as its' new Manager. Subject to UEFA Licence qualification.
Glentoran.net spoke to Roy who told the Website, “I am both delighted and excited about the job, but first things first is to sort out the backroom staff, and I am delighted that Alan McDonald has agreed to continue in his role and his experience will be a real asset, and Billy Sinclair has also agreed to come along and join us, and he will bring with him, his knowledge and experience in the local game. I will also be getting around to talking to the backroom staff and Managers of the various teams at the Club.
On the playing front, I have good base to work from, but I do believe that we need to do a bit of tweaking, and will be starting to engage with some of the players.
I know that this is a big job, both on and off the pitch, and I am aware as an East Belfast man, of the culture, and the standing that Glentoran FC has, or should have in the Community, and I want to build on that, and everything that is Glentoran."
Glentoran
A couple of days before the appointment of Walker, the Belfast Telegraph reported
May 22, 2007 - "Roy Walker is being lined up as the next manager of Glentoran - 15 months after turning down the opportunity to take over the Oval hot-seat.
The former Crusaders and Glenavon chief is the man that the top brass at Glentoran want to take the club forward...
Should Walker agree to take the job then first-team coach Alan McDonald may stay to work alongside him.
McDonald is believed to have told the club that he isn't interested in the manager's job because of business commitments, but would be prepared to stay on in the same role he occupied under Millar. Belfast Telegraph
Glentoran Official Site -Roy Walker unveiled as New Glentoran Manager Thursday 24 May
This morning (Thursday) at the Oval, saw Glentoran FC end speculation, by announcing that it had appointed Roy Walker, as its' new Manager. Subject to UEFA Licence qualification.
Glentoran.net spoke to Roy who told the Website, “I am both delighted and excited about the job, but first things first is to sort out the backroom staff, and I am delighted that Alan McDonald has agreed to continue in his role and his experience will be a real asset, and Billy Sinclair has also agreed to come along and join us, and he will bring with him, his knowledge and experience in the local game. I will also be getting around to talking to the backroom staff and Managers of the various teams at the Club.
On the playing front, I have good base to work from, but I do believe that we need to do a bit of tweaking, and will be starting to engage with some of the players.
I know that this is a big job, both on and off the pitch, and I am aware as an East Belfast man, of the culture, and the standing that Glentoran FC has, or should have in the Community, and I want to build on that, and everything that is Glentoran."
Glentoran
A couple of days before the appointment of Walker, the Belfast Telegraph reported
May 22, 2007 - "Roy Walker is being lined up as the next manager of Glentoran - 15 months after turning down the opportunity to take over the Oval hot-seat.
The former Crusaders and Glenavon chief is the man that the top brass at Glentoran want to take the club forward...
Should Walker agree to take the job then first-team coach Alan McDonald may stay to work alongside him.
McDonald is believed to have told the club that he isn't interested in the manager's job because of business commitments, but would be prepared to stay on in the same role he occupied under Millar. Belfast Telegraph
Former QPR Player, Martin Allen Appointed Leicester Manager
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Leicester Official Site
Allen Named New Foxes Manager
Leicester City Football Club are pleased to announce the appointment of Martin Allen as manager with immediate effect.
The news comes on the same day that Walkers announce a new ten-year deal with the Foxes, which will see the Leicester-based company invest a seven-figure sum into its hometown club and retain the stadium naming rights to the Walkers Stadium until 2017.
The club can also reveal that Topps Tiles will be Leicester's club sponsor for the 2007-08 season after the two parties signed an initial two-year agreement which could see the Foxes net a seven-figure sum.
And there is further good news, with the club confirming that Alliance & Leicester had agreed to continue their sponsorship of the Alliance & Leicester Stand for a further two years.
Former MK Dons boss Allen has signed a three-year deal with Leicester, and arrives following extensive talks with Foxes owner and chairman Milan Mandaric.
Mandaric said: "I believe Martin Allen's arrival at Leicester City is a significant appointment as the club prepare for widespread changes that will bring underachievement on the field to an end and ensure that we are a highly competitive team.
"Last season's campaign was painfully unacceptable and I made it clear from the outset that significant investment in the first-team was a priority requirement if the club want to dispense with mediocrity and build towards success that will ultimately restore this club to it's rightful place in top flight football.
"Martin's arrival is the first of many that will ultimately re-shape the destiny of the club and restore belief that has been sorely missing in recent seasons.
"During the last couple of months I have been in front of numerous people who believed they had the right attributes to take this club forward.
"My criteria was simple. I needed someone with hunger, drive, commitment and potential to aspire to all our dreams and aspirations. And I believe Martin ticked all the required boxes. His undoubted ability is matched only by his infectious enthusiasm which will inspire the club.
"He was unquestionably the outstanding candidate to come before me and deserves the immense opportunity that awaits him.
"In my short reign since taking control of the club I have shared the supporters' growing concerns and frustrations. I have made it abundantly clear that failure is a word I have no desire to be associated with.
"But as we hopefully build towards a new and prosperous era success can only be achieved if unity prevails throughout the club. I have no desire to see the magnificent support of this club subdued by our evident shortcomings on the field.
"While I would never take the enormous challenge that awaits us for granted I remain confident that the coming campaign brings with it genuine reason for optimism."
Martin Allen added: "I feel honoured and privileged to be appointed manager of Leicester City Football Club.
"Having enjoyed some good times in the Conference, League One and League Two I now feel ready to make the next step up and take on the challenge of getting this team to win matches and to see us fulfil the ambitions of our Chairman and supporters.
"Along the way we will have some fun, some laughs, and a few tears of joy and sadness. But I can see the stadium being sold out on a regular basis to fans who can enjoy supporting a team which has passion - and players who are proud to wear the shirt."
Meanwhile, Neil Campbell, Chief Executive at Walkers, said he was delighted to have secured the stadium naming rights for the next ten years, as Walkers and Leicester City have a long shared heritage. Walkers first sponsored the club's shirts in 1987 and then bought the naming rights to the stadium in 2002...."
Leicester
MK Dons - CLUB STATEMENT
Milton Keynes Dons Football Club can today confirm the departure of Martin Allen as its manager.
After the club granted permission for Leicester City to make an approach regarding their vacant managerial position, Martin has decided to accept the offer at the Walkers Stadium.
The club will now begin the process of appointing a new manager to take the club forward into the most exciting chapter of its short history.
After a successful first season in charge, it came as no surprise that a club from a higher level was alerted to Martin's talents.
We would like to thank Martin for his hard work and commitment during his time with the club, and we wish him every success in the future. MK Dons
BBC - Allen named new Leicester manager
Martin Allen guided MK Dons to the League Two play-offs
Leicester City have appointed Martin Allen as their new manager.
The Foxes were given permission to speak to the MK Dons boss earlier in the week and chairman Milan Mandaric has decided to bring in Allen.
The 41-year-old has pipped current caretaker boss Nigel Worthington, Neil Warnock and Paul Ince to the post.
He took MK Dons to fourth place in League Two last season, where they lost out in the play-offs to Shrewsbury and impressed at Brentford before that.
In two years at Griffin Park, the former QPR and Portsmouth player turned the Bees from relegation strugglers into promotion hopefuls.
He has never managed at Championship level before, but the Foxes will hope his managerial success to date helps them improve after a poor season in which they finished 19th in the table.
Worthington took over as caretaker manager of the Foxes in April after the departure of Rob Kelly and helped steer the club away from relegation. BBC
Leicester Official Site
Allen Named New Foxes Manager
Leicester City Football Club are pleased to announce the appointment of Martin Allen as manager with immediate effect.
The news comes on the same day that Walkers announce a new ten-year deal with the Foxes, which will see the Leicester-based company invest a seven-figure sum into its hometown club and retain the stadium naming rights to the Walkers Stadium until 2017.
The club can also reveal that Topps Tiles will be Leicester's club sponsor for the 2007-08 season after the two parties signed an initial two-year agreement which could see the Foxes net a seven-figure sum.
And there is further good news, with the club confirming that Alliance & Leicester had agreed to continue their sponsorship of the Alliance & Leicester Stand for a further two years.
Former MK Dons boss Allen has signed a three-year deal with Leicester, and arrives following extensive talks with Foxes owner and chairman Milan Mandaric.
Mandaric said: "I believe Martin Allen's arrival at Leicester City is a significant appointment as the club prepare for widespread changes that will bring underachievement on the field to an end and ensure that we are a highly competitive team.
"Last season's campaign was painfully unacceptable and I made it clear from the outset that significant investment in the first-team was a priority requirement if the club want to dispense with mediocrity and build towards success that will ultimately restore this club to it's rightful place in top flight football.
"Martin's arrival is the first of many that will ultimately re-shape the destiny of the club and restore belief that has been sorely missing in recent seasons.
"During the last couple of months I have been in front of numerous people who believed they had the right attributes to take this club forward.
"My criteria was simple. I needed someone with hunger, drive, commitment and potential to aspire to all our dreams and aspirations. And I believe Martin ticked all the required boxes. His undoubted ability is matched only by his infectious enthusiasm which will inspire the club.
"He was unquestionably the outstanding candidate to come before me and deserves the immense opportunity that awaits him.
"In my short reign since taking control of the club I have shared the supporters' growing concerns and frustrations. I have made it abundantly clear that failure is a word I have no desire to be associated with.
"But as we hopefully build towards a new and prosperous era success can only be achieved if unity prevails throughout the club. I have no desire to see the magnificent support of this club subdued by our evident shortcomings on the field.
"While I would never take the enormous challenge that awaits us for granted I remain confident that the coming campaign brings with it genuine reason for optimism."
Martin Allen added: "I feel honoured and privileged to be appointed manager of Leicester City Football Club.
"Having enjoyed some good times in the Conference, League One and League Two I now feel ready to make the next step up and take on the challenge of getting this team to win matches and to see us fulfil the ambitions of our Chairman and supporters.
"Along the way we will have some fun, some laughs, and a few tears of joy and sadness. But I can see the stadium being sold out on a regular basis to fans who can enjoy supporting a team which has passion - and players who are proud to wear the shirt."
Meanwhile, Neil Campbell, Chief Executive at Walkers, said he was delighted to have secured the stadium naming rights for the next ten years, as Walkers and Leicester City have a long shared heritage. Walkers first sponsored the club's shirts in 1987 and then bought the naming rights to the stadium in 2002...."
Leicester
MK Dons - CLUB STATEMENT
Milton Keynes Dons Football Club can today confirm the departure of Martin Allen as its manager.
After the club granted permission for Leicester City to make an approach regarding their vacant managerial position, Martin has decided to accept the offer at the Walkers Stadium.
The club will now begin the process of appointing a new manager to take the club forward into the most exciting chapter of its short history.
After a successful first season in charge, it came as no surprise that a club from a higher level was alerted to Martin's talents.
We would like to thank Martin for his hard work and commitment during his time with the club, and we wish him every success in the future. MK Dons
BBC - Allen named new Leicester manager
Martin Allen guided MK Dons to the League Two play-offs
Leicester City have appointed Martin Allen as their new manager.
The Foxes were given permission to speak to the MK Dons boss earlier in the week and chairman Milan Mandaric has decided to bring in Allen.
The 41-year-old has pipped current caretaker boss Nigel Worthington, Neil Warnock and Paul Ince to the post.
He took MK Dons to fourth place in League Two last season, where they lost out in the play-offs to Shrewsbury and impressed at Brentford before that.
In two years at Griffin Park, the former QPR and Portsmouth player turned the Bees from relegation strugglers into promotion hopefuls.
He has never managed at Championship level before, but the Foxes will hope his managerial success to date helps them improve after a poor season in which they finished 19th in the table.
Worthington took over as caretaker manager of the Foxes in April after the departure of Rob Kelly and helped steer the club away from relegation. BBC
Ex-QPR News Update
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Former QPR Midfielder John Beck, who made his QPR debut under Gordon Jago in December 1972, turns 53 (May 25, 1954) Birthday See John Beck/Wikipedia
Former QPR forward,Tony Thorpe has joined Non-League Tamworth FC (from Grimsby) - Tamworth
Dean Sturridge has been released by non-league Kidderminster Harriers - Kidderminster Official Site: "Deano to Leave Aggborough
Mark Yates has confirmed that striker Dean Sturridge will not be staying on with the club for the new Blue Square Premier 2007/08 season.
Sturridge joined the club last summer on a one-year deal and featured in six games before suffering a severe Achilles injury in early September, which brought a premature end to his playing season.
He continued to assist Yates and Neil Howarth with coaching duties for the remainder of last season.
"It didn't work out as we would have liked with Dean on the playing side of things last season and it was a massive shame with the serious injury he picked up," Yates told harriers.co.uk today.
"But he was a massive help in the dressing room and around the club on the coaching side of things and we wish him all the best for the future." Kidderminster
News Sturridge joined QPR in March 2005 - BBC
Martin Allen is reportedly set to be announced as the new manager of Leicester City - BBC -Allen set to be named Foxes boss
Martin Allen guided MK Dons to the League Two play-offs
Leicester City are set to unveil Martin Allen as their new manager on Friday, BBC Radio Leicester reports.
The Foxes were given permission to speak to MK Dons boss Allen earlier in the week and chairman Milan Mandaric has decided to appoint the 41-year-old.
Allen has pipped current caretaker boss Nigel Worthington, Neil Warnock and Paul Ince to the post....BBC
Matt Jackson who was briefly at QPR on loan, a decade ago, under Ray Wilkins has joined Watford on a free from Wigan - BBC
Matt Johnson who was signed by Ian Holloway to assist our successful promotion and now a player with Wellington, was jailed in New Zealand for at least six months for drunk driving - Report
Former QPR Midfielder John Beck, who made his QPR debut under Gordon Jago in December 1972, turns 53 (May 25, 1954) Birthday See John Beck/Wikipedia
Former QPR forward,Tony Thorpe has joined Non-League Tamworth FC (from Grimsby) - Tamworth
Dean Sturridge has been released by non-league Kidderminster Harriers - Kidderminster Official Site: "Deano to Leave Aggborough
Mark Yates has confirmed that striker Dean Sturridge will not be staying on with the club for the new Blue Square Premier 2007/08 season.
Sturridge joined the club last summer on a one-year deal and featured in six games before suffering a severe Achilles injury in early September, which brought a premature end to his playing season.
He continued to assist Yates and Neil Howarth with coaching duties for the remainder of last season.
"It didn't work out as we would have liked with Dean on the playing side of things last season and it was a massive shame with the serious injury he picked up," Yates told harriers.co.uk today.
"But he was a massive help in the dressing room and around the club on the coaching side of things and we wish him all the best for the future." Kidderminster
News Sturridge joined QPR in March 2005 - BBC
Martin Allen is reportedly set to be announced as the new manager of Leicester City - BBC -Allen set to be named Foxes boss
Martin Allen guided MK Dons to the League Two play-offs
Leicester City are set to unveil Martin Allen as their new manager on Friday, BBC Radio Leicester reports.
The Foxes were given permission to speak to MK Dons boss Allen earlier in the week and chairman Milan Mandaric has decided to appoint the 41-year-old.
Allen has pipped current caretaker boss Nigel Worthington, Neil Warnock and Paul Ince to the post....BBC
Matt Jackson who was briefly at QPR on loan, a decade ago, under Ray Wilkins has joined Watford on a free from Wigan - BBC
Matt Johnson who was signed by Ian Holloway to assist our successful promotion and now a player with Wellington, was jailed in New Zealand for at least six months for drunk driving - Report
QPR's Playoff Defeat in Cardiff: Four Long Years Ago
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May 25, 2003: Cardiff 1 QPR 0
QPR Team on that day:
Day, Kelly, Shittu, Carlisle, Padula (Williams 79), Gallen, Bircham, Palmer, McLeod, Pacquette (Thomson 60), Furlong. Subs not used: Culkin, Angell, Forbes.
Manager: Ian Holloway. Coach: Kenny Jackett: Board's Nigel Blackburn and Ross Jones. CEO: David Davies.
- Every single one of the above named is no longer at Loftus Road: Players, Manager and coach and Board!
BBC Match Report Cardiff seal promotion
Substitute Andy Campbell came off the bench to guide Cardiff past Queens Park Rangers in a nerve-wracking Division Two play-off final.
QPR's defensive partnership of Danny Shittu and Clark Carlisle had managed to shackle Cardiff's 35-goal striker Rob Earnshaw.
But with six minutes to go of extra-time, Campbell proved more elusive.
The former Middlesbrough striker, who had replaced Earnshaw in the second half, shrugged off Shittu and then calmly lobbed Chris Day, to ensure Cardiff returned to Division One after an 18-year absence.
Chances had been few and far between in normal time, but as both sets of players tired, the game opened up in those nail-biting final 30 minutes.
No more so than when Day made a superb one-handed save from a Spencer Prior header after Graham Kavanagh's in-swinging free-kick.
While Cardiff favoured a more patient build-up, QPR were keen to get the ball quickly forward to strikers Paul Furlong and Richard Pacquette.
Key moments
79 mins: Lawrence replaces Earnshaw with Campbell
104 mins: Day superbly saves Prior's header
114 mins: Campbell cleverly lobs Day to score the game's only goal
The experienced Furlong proved a handful for the Cardiff defence, holding up the ball well, though reflecting the tenseness of the occasion, his finishing was too hurried.
Notably after the restart, when the 34-year-old striker found some space in the Cardiff area, but having done the hard work, he blazed over the bar.
Furlong also had the best chance of the first half when he pounced on Danny Gabbidon's error, only to then rush his attempted lob over Neil Alexander.
On the flanks, Kevin McLeod and Kevin Gallen also provided plenty of impetus for QPR.
On 47 minutes Gallen ran on to a loose ball inside the box, but his low eight-yard shot flew straight at Alexander.
Gallen then unleashed a volley, which flew just over the bar.
Despite having plenty of the ball, Cardiff's attacks foundered against QPR's impressive central defensive partnership of Shittu and Carlisle.
Shittu made a superb defensive tackle to stop Gareth Whalley, when the former Bradford midfielder had a clear sight of goal on the edge of the box in the first-half.
As the game wore on, Carlisle's reading of the game time and again came to QPR's rescue.
With 10 minutes to go, Carlisle made a well-timed tackle to thwart Kavanagh on the edge of the penalty area and then produced an even better challenge to deny Andy Campbell.
The England Under-21 defender even found time to saunter forward to out jumped Prior, only to guide his header wide of Alexander's right-hand post.
So indomitable were those two QPR central defenders that in the closing stages of the game, Cardiff manager Lennie Lawrence withdraw the club's leading scorer Rob Earnshaw.
But as the game headed towards penalties, Carlisle conceded possession and as the ball broke forward, Campbell got the better of Shittu to send Cardiff into Division One.
BBC
Also: BBC - Minute by Minute Report
The Guardian - Bluebirds soar towards top flight
Cardiff City 1 - 0 Queens Park Rangers
Jon Brodkin at the Millennium Stadium
Never one to set his sights low, Sam Hammam spoke last night of his determination to reach the Champions League. The Cardiff City owner has a long way to go to achieve that ambition but yesterday his club at least moved to within striking distance of the top flight. It is just as well today is a bank holiday because few in the Welsh capital will be in a fit state to work.
The Andy Campbell goal which took Cardiff to a level they last played at 18 years ago was greeted with unrestrained joy in their home city. A forgettable game seemed certain to be heading for penalties after 114 scoreless minutes until Campbell, a second-half substitute, scored with a touch of quality which was out of keeping with most of the match.
The party in Cardiff will continue for days, probably months, but it was impossible not to feel sorry for QPR, who were the more thoughtful side and had the better of the few openings over the initial 90 minutes. The manner of defeat was particularly unfortunate for Clarke Carlisle, who had been excellent at centre-half until his poor pass was cut out for Campbell's strike.
Cardiff will care little about the way victory was achieved. For the most part they were one dimensional, playing too many unsuccessful long balls towards the head of Peter Thorne, and lacked cutting edge until extra-time. Yet, having failed in last season's play-offs, perhaps they were due a change of luck.
Hammam was thrown in the bath afterwards and emerged sounding like he had forgotten the promotion is to the First Division and not the Premiership. The former Wimbledon owner has big hopes for Cardiff and is desperate to get permission for a new 30,000-seat stadium. With that he believes progress up the league could be fast.
"Our aim is not to be in the Premier League but to be in the top echelons of the Premier League and in the Champions League," he said. "That's the only thing that Welsh people will accept. The thing we need is a vehicle and for that we need the stadium.
"If we have [planning permission for] the stadium we can go aggressively and then we would like to take a step forward as quickly as possible. It's in the hands of the politicians but also we have to solve the technical problems of planning.
"With the stadium in place we will expect to give any club in the First Division a run for their money. Once we have the planning for the stadium then the money the financial institutions will give us will be far different. Already we have an excellent nucleus of players. We could augment that with new blood."
Cardiff's manager Lennie Lawrence is not thinking about Real Madrid for the time being, though his mind is set on another promotion. Having reached the top flight with Middlesbrough and Charlton, he said his one remaining ambition was to join the elite band who have guided three clubs to that height.
Lawrence gambled by bringing on Campbell for his leading scorer Robert Earnshaw after 80 minutes. Earnshaw shook his head but Lawrence's instincts were right. Campbell, hardly a prolific scorer, notched his seventh of the campaign at a perfect moment.
Earnshaw had been quiet, a reflection of Cardiff's failure to make much headway. QPR's central defenders, Carlisle and Danny Shittu, were outstanding and Lawrence's players lacked the variety required. After a first half which was nervy and dominated by long balls, QPR found better passing movements. They wasted openings during the 90 minutes and in extra-time but their manager Ian Holloway was rightly proud of what has been achieved on a tight budget.
"When I arrived not that long ago I had no staff and nine players, two of whom had long-term injuries," he said. "We have come a long way. Sadly not far enough and we have to do that next year. We have to keep this feeling in our hearts and get stronger."
QPR's preparations had hardly been helped by the fact that they were woken at about 4.15am after Cardiff fans apparently set off a fire alarm at their hotel. Their goalkeeper Chris Day was still alert enough in extra-time to make a brilliant save from Spencer Prior's header but was powerless when Campbell struck. Not long after QPR's Tommy Williams had shot when he ought to have squared to Paul Furlong, Carlisle's pass was intercepted by Gareth Whalley and Campbell sprinted clear of Shittu and lifted a shot into the net.
"It wasn't a classic match," Lawrence said, "but no one connected with Cardiff will ever forget it." That is certain and, if Hammam has his way, there will be far more to come. Guardian
And of course the night before the playoff final: "The Hotel Fire Alarm Incident"
May 25, 2003: Cardiff 1 QPR 0
QPR Team on that day:
Day, Kelly, Shittu, Carlisle, Padula (Williams 79), Gallen, Bircham, Palmer, McLeod, Pacquette (Thomson 60), Furlong. Subs not used: Culkin, Angell, Forbes.
Manager: Ian Holloway. Coach: Kenny Jackett: Board's Nigel Blackburn and Ross Jones. CEO: David Davies.
- Every single one of the above named is no longer at Loftus Road: Players, Manager and coach and Board!
BBC Match Report Cardiff seal promotion
Substitute Andy Campbell came off the bench to guide Cardiff past Queens Park Rangers in a nerve-wracking Division Two play-off final.
QPR's defensive partnership of Danny Shittu and Clark Carlisle had managed to shackle Cardiff's 35-goal striker Rob Earnshaw.
But with six minutes to go of extra-time, Campbell proved more elusive.
The former Middlesbrough striker, who had replaced Earnshaw in the second half, shrugged off Shittu and then calmly lobbed Chris Day, to ensure Cardiff returned to Division One after an 18-year absence.
Chances had been few and far between in normal time, but as both sets of players tired, the game opened up in those nail-biting final 30 minutes.
No more so than when Day made a superb one-handed save from a Spencer Prior header after Graham Kavanagh's in-swinging free-kick.
While Cardiff favoured a more patient build-up, QPR were keen to get the ball quickly forward to strikers Paul Furlong and Richard Pacquette.
Key moments
79 mins: Lawrence replaces Earnshaw with Campbell
104 mins: Day superbly saves Prior's header
114 mins: Campbell cleverly lobs Day to score the game's only goal
The experienced Furlong proved a handful for the Cardiff defence, holding up the ball well, though reflecting the tenseness of the occasion, his finishing was too hurried.
Notably after the restart, when the 34-year-old striker found some space in the Cardiff area, but having done the hard work, he blazed over the bar.
Furlong also had the best chance of the first half when he pounced on Danny Gabbidon's error, only to then rush his attempted lob over Neil Alexander.
On the flanks, Kevin McLeod and Kevin Gallen also provided plenty of impetus for QPR.
On 47 minutes Gallen ran on to a loose ball inside the box, but his low eight-yard shot flew straight at Alexander.
Gallen then unleashed a volley, which flew just over the bar.
Despite having plenty of the ball, Cardiff's attacks foundered against QPR's impressive central defensive partnership of Shittu and Carlisle.
Shittu made a superb defensive tackle to stop Gareth Whalley, when the former Bradford midfielder had a clear sight of goal on the edge of the box in the first-half.
As the game wore on, Carlisle's reading of the game time and again came to QPR's rescue.
With 10 minutes to go, Carlisle made a well-timed tackle to thwart Kavanagh on the edge of the penalty area and then produced an even better challenge to deny Andy Campbell.
The England Under-21 defender even found time to saunter forward to out jumped Prior, only to guide his header wide of Alexander's right-hand post.
So indomitable were those two QPR central defenders that in the closing stages of the game, Cardiff manager Lennie Lawrence withdraw the club's leading scorer Rob Earnshaw.
But as the game headed towards penalties, Carlisle conceded possession and as the ball broke forward, Campbell got the better of Shittu to send Cardiff into Division One.
BBC
Also: BBC - Minute by Minute Report
The Guardian - Bluebirds soar towards top flight
Cardiff City 1 - 0 Queens Park Rangers
Jon Brodkin at the Millennium Stadium
Never one to set his sights low, Sam Hammam spoke last night of his determination to reach the Champions League. The Cardiff City owner has a long way to go to achieve that ambition but yesterday his club at least moved to within striking distance of the top flight. It is just as well today is a bank holiday because few in the Welsh capital will be in a fit state to work.
The Andy Campbell goal which took Cardiff to a level they last played at 18 years ago was greeted with unrestrained joy in their home city. A forgettable game seemed certain to be heading for penalties after 114 scoreless minutes until Campbell, a second-half substitute, scored with a touch of quality which was out of keeping with most of the match.
The party in Cardiff will continue for days, probably months, but it was impossible not to feel sorry for QPR, who were the more thoughtful side and had the better of the few openings over the initial 90 minutes. The manner of defeat was particularly unfortunate for Clarke Carlisle, who had been excellent at centre-half until his poor pass was cut out for Campbell's strike.
Cardiff will care little about the way victory was achieved. For the most part they were one dimensional, playing too many unsuccessful long balls towards the head of Peter Thorne, and lacked cutting edge until extra-time. Yet, having failed in last season's play-offs, perhaps they were due a change of luck.
Hammam was thrown in the bath afterwards and emerged sounding like he had forgotten the promotion is to the First Division and not the Premiership. The former Wimbledon owner has big hopes for Cardiff and is desperate to get permission for a new 30,000-seat stadium. With that he believes progress up the league could be fast.
"Our aim is not to be in the Premier League but to be in the top echelons of the Premier League and in the Champions League," he said. "That's the only thing that Welsh people will accept. The thing we need is a vehicle and for that we need the stadium.
"If we have [planning permission for] the stadium we can go aggressively and then we would like to take a step forward as quickly as possible. It's in the hands of the politicians but also we have to solve the technical problems of planning.
"With the stadium in place we will expect to give any club in the First Division a run for their money. Once we have the planning for the stadium then the money the financial institutions will give us will be far different. Already we have an excellent nucleus of players. We could augment that with new blood."
Cardiff's manager Lennie Lawrence is not thinking about Real Madrid for the time being, though his mind is set on another promotion. Having reached the top flight with Middlesbrough and Charlton, he said his one remaining ambition was to join the elite band who have guided three clubs to that height.
Lawrence gambled by bringing on Campbell for his leading scorer Robert Earnshaw after 80 minutes. Earnshaw shook his head but Lawrence's instincts were right. Campbell, hardly a prolific scorer, notched his seventh of the campaign at a perfect moment.
Earnshaw had been quiet, a reflection of Cardiff's failure to make much headway. QPR's central defenders, Carlisle and Danny Shittu, were outstanding and Lawrence's players lacked the variety required. After a first half which was nervy and dominated by long balls, QPR found better passing movements. They wasted openings during the 90 minutes and in extra-time but their manager Ian Holloway was rightly proud of what has been achieved on a tight budget.
"When I arrived not that long ago I had no staff and nine players, two of whom had long-term injuries," he said. "We have come a long way. Sadly not far enough and we have to do that next year. We have to keep this feeling in our hearts and get stronger."
QPR's preparations had hardly been helped by the fact that they were woken at about 4.15am after Cardiff fans apparently set off a fire alarm at their hotel. Their goalkeeper Chris Day was still alert enough in extra-time to make a brilliant save from Spencer Prior's header but was powerless when Campbell struck. Not long after QPR's Tommy Williams had shot when he ought to have squared to Paul Furlong, Carlisle's pass was intercepted by Gareth Whalley and Campbell sprinted clear of Shittu and lifted a shot into the net.
"It wasn't a classic match," Lawrence said, "but no one connected with Cardiff will ever forget it." That is certain and, if Hammam has his way, there will be far more to come. Guardian
And of course the night before the playoff final: "The Hotel Fire Alarm Incident"
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Former QPR Chairman Chris Wright on The Future of his WASPS
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Mail
European champions fear for their future
Last updated at 12:31pm on 22nd May 2007
Comments
Wasps chairman Chris Wright today warned that Europe’s rugby champions will not be able to build on their Heineken Cup success without significant investment or a bigger stadium.
According to Wright, his club need to make significant strides towards matching the facilities that underpin Leicester and French giants Toulouse if they are to take advantage of Sunday’s 25-9 victory over the Tigers.
Scroll down to read more:
Tastes good: Lawrence Dallaglio savours Wasps' Heineken Cup win but says the club must improve their Adams Park facilities
Wasps at present share Adams Park with Wycombe Wanderers and are examining ways of increasing the capacity of 10,000.
A new stadium is the obvious answer but that would involve a huge amount of capital investment, let alone finding a suitable site.
London Irish, who share the Madejski Stadium with Reading, are also looking into the feasibility of building their own stadium.
Under existing Guinness Premiership rules, however, any club building a new home have to allow for a capacity of at least 12,000.
Wasps attracted 91,061 fans during this season’s Premiership campaign compared to Leicester’s 196,194 and captain Lawrence Dallaglio stressed the need for an increased capacity.
“We need to go away and address the issues off the field and make sure we don’t fail because of our lack of ability to compete at that level,” he said.
“We haven’t got the buying power or strength in depth Leicester have. We don’t own a stadium or have 17,000 people coming to watch us each game. But what we do have in our team is soul.”
Wasps will receive £375,000 for taking part in the Heineken Cup, with the 11 other Premiership clubs getting exactly the same income as they have agreed to pool all monies from this competition.
The champions have picked up £37,000 as a bonus for lifting the trophy. Wright, chairman of Chrysalis, brought in businessman John O’Connell as vice-chairman, who is a significant shareholder in Wasps, and together they have been examining ways of increasing the club’s financial power.
“At the end of the day, the buck stops with me as chairman and I am open to suggestions about how we can best move forward,” Wright said.
“I believe our achievements in the 10 years of my involvement have been fantastic and I am not planning to stand down. If I ever did, I would think that I had done a pretty decent job.
“We have created a fantastic foundation here at Wasps and we are a brand that is known around the rugby world. I would love to see us playing at the kind of stadium that would match our achievements and our ambition but our biggest problem with Adams Park is gaining planning consent for increasing the capacity.
“It’s a fact of life that we cannot generate the same kind of income as other teams and that makes our achievements even greater. We have got a lot of things right and have put in place as much as we can.”
Wright admitted the only way forward might now be outside investment in the club and is more interested in someone coming in with fresh ideas.
He said: “We are always open to offers of help and if individuals felt they wanted to be involved and could play a part in developing the club then we would be willing to talk to them.
“We have spoken to a variety of people and it’s an ongoing process. If somebody coming on board wanted to take a major role then I would do whatever is right for the club.
“We are not talking about financial clout because Wasps are right up to the limit on the agreed salary cap for our squad. It’s not a question of money.
"We are talking about ideas and what someone could offer Wasps in terms of helping keep this club at the top of the game in Europe. Our aim is to build a new era of excellence and to ensure Wasps are at the forefront.”
It is a decade since Wright was asked to consider getting involved with the fledgling professional rugby game in England and agreed to form Loftus Road Plc with Wasps and Queens Park Rangers operating under the same umbrella.
He eventually opted to break up the partnership, throwing his financial weight behind the rugby section and has been rewarded with 10 trophies in as many years.
He added: “I remember going to their home ground at Sudbury and thinking, ‘My God, they can’t run a professional team from these facilities.’
“Now we have joined Leicester and Toulouse as the only teams to have won two Heineken Cups. That is amazing and there is no doubting we have been over performing compared to Leicester, who started professional rugby with 12,500 season-ticket holders.” Mail
European champions fear for their future
Last updated at 12:31pm on 22nd May 2007
Comments
Wasps chairman Chris Wright today warned that Europe’s rugby champions will not be able to build on their Heineken Cup success without significant investment or a bigger stadium.
According to Wright, his club need to make significant strides towards matching the facilities that underpin Leicester and French giants Toulouse if they are to take advantage of Sunday’s 25-9 victory over the Tigers.
Scroll down to read more:
Tastes good: Lawrence Dallaglio savours Wasps' Heineken Cup win but says the club must improve their Adams Park facilities
Wasps at present share Adams Park with Wycombe Wanderers and are examining ways of increasing the capacity of 10,000.
A new stadium is the obvious answer but that would involve a huge amount of capital investment, let alone finding a suitable site.
London Irish, who share the Madejski Stadium with Reading, are also looking into the feasibility of building their own stadium.
Under existing Guinness Premiership rules, however, any club building a new home have to allow for a capacity of at least 12,000.
Wasps attracted 91,061 fans during this season’s Premiership campaign compared to Leicester’s 196,194 and captain Lawrence Dallaglio stressed the need for an increased capacity.
“We need to go away and address the issues off the field and make sure we don’t fail because of our lack of ability to compete at that level,” he said.
“We haven’t got the buying power or strength in depth Leicester have. We don’t own a stadium or have 17,000 people coming to watch us each game. But what we do have in our team is soul.”
Wasps will receive £375,000 for taking part in the Heineken Cup, with the 11 other Premiership clubs getting exactly the same income as they have agreed to pool all monies from this competition.
The champions have picked up £37,000 as a bonus for lifting the trophy. Wright, chairman of Chrysalis, brought in businessman John O’Connell as vice-chairman, who is a significant shareholder in Wasps, and together they have been examining ways of increasing the club’s financial power.
“At the end of the day, the buck stops with me as chairman and I am open to suggestions about how we can best move forward,” Wright said.
“I believe our achievements in the 10 years of my involvement have been fantastic and I am not planning to stand down. If I ever did, I would think that I had done a pretty decent job.
“We have created a fantastic foundation here at Wasps and we are a brand that is known around the rugby world. I would love to see us playing at the kind of stadium that would match our achievements and our ambition but our biggest problem with Adams Park is gaining planning consent for increasing the capacity.
“It’s a fact of life that we cannot generate the same kind of income as other teams and that makes our achievements even greater. We have got a lot of things right and have put in place as much as we can.”
Wright admitted the only way forward might now be outside investment in the club and is more interested in someone coming in with fresh ideas.
He said: “We are always open to offers of help and if individuals felt they wanted to be involved and could play a part in developing the club then we would be willing to talk to them.
“We have spoken to a variety of people and it’s an ongoing process. If somebody coming on board wanted to take a major role then I would do whatever is right for the club.
“We are not talking about financial clout because Wasps are right up to the limit on the agreed salary cap for our squad. It’s not a question of money.
"We are talking about ideas and what someone could offer Wasps in terms of helping keep this club at the top of the game in Europe. Our aim is to build a new era of excellence and to ensure Wasps are at the forefront.”
It is a decade since Wright was asked to consider getting involved with the fledgling professional rugby game in England and agreed to form Loftus Road Plc with Wasps and Queens Park Rangers operating under the same umbrella.
He eventually opted to break up the partnership, throwing his financial weight behind the rugby section and has been rewarded with 10 trophies in as many years.
He added: “I remember going to their home ground at Sudbury and thinking, ‘My God, they can’t run a professional team from these facilities.’
“Now we have joined Leicester and Toulouse as the only teams to have won two Heineken Cups. That is amazing and there is no doubting we have been over performing compared to Leicester, who started professional rugby with 12,500 season-ticket holders.” Mail
Former QPR Forward Colin Clarke Takes Over at Puerto Rico Islanders
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Islanders name Colin Clarke Head Coach
05/24/07 - USL First Division (USLFD)
[Puerto Rico Islanders play in the United Soccer Leagues (USL)First Division] - not the same as Major League Soccer (MLS)
BAYAMON, PR -- The Board of Directors of the PR Islanders announce the appointment and hiring of former Major League Soccer FC Dallas head coach Colin Clarke to assume the direction of the team for the USL First Division 2007 season.
Colin Clarke, 44, brings his highly regarded experience, both as a successful international player and coach for both MLS and USL First Division (formerly A-League). Clarke holds an FA (British) coaching badge and a USSF Class "A" coaching license.
His professional coaching career in USL began in 1998 when he guided the USL First Division Richmond Kickers to a 38-18 regular season record and playoff appearances in both 1998 and 1999 USL Seasons. Thereafter he was the head coach for the San Diego Flash of USL-1, guiding the team to a 16-9-3 record and a second place finish in the Pacific Division. In 2001 he was hired as the Assistant Coach for MLS FC Dallas, for three years until 2003 and was the Interim Head Coach for the final six matches of the 2003 season.
In the summer of 2005, Clarke and his coaching staff were selected to lead the MLS All-Star team in the summer classic against Fulham FC by virtue of having a League-best 34 points through July 4. With a league-high six FC Dallas players on the MLS roster, Clarke's side defeated Fulham 4-1.
Clarke led FC Dallas to the MLS Cup playoffs in 2004 and 2005 as regular seasons champs. Under Clarke's direction FC Dallas achieved many milestones during the 2006 regular season in posting a record of 16-12-4 (52 points): The 16 wins led MLS and equaled the most wins in regulation in team history. He was appointed head coach at USL First Division's Virginia Beach Mariners in January 2007 until USL announced the franchise's dissolution.
Clarke's outstanding playing career includes 38 appearances with the Northern Ireland National Team, where he scored 13 goals, including a goal vs. Spain in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. He played in the English Leagues from 1981-93 with six different teams, including Portsmouth, Southampton and Queens Park Rangers. During his 12-year career, he played in 361 English League matches and tallied 146 goals.
The Islanders' former head coach Toribio Rojas will continue to be an important part of Islanders' organization in the rapidly expanding youth development programs. Mr. Rojas has made a historic contribution to Puerto Rican soccer during the past ten years."The Islanders and Puerto Rico have a debt to Mr. Rojas for his dedication and support to this effort," said Andres Guillemard, president of PRI.
Clarke will meet the players during practice scheduled for Wednesday morning at "La Islandera" and will join the team on Thursday in Minnesota for the rematch to be played on Saturday May 26th, at National Sports Center.
"I am very excited to joining the Islanders franchise and to make this team reach a whole new level," said new PR Islanders Head Coach Colin Clarke.
Announcement
About the United Soccer League (USL)
Islanders name Colin Clarke Head Coach
05/24/07 - USL First Division (USLFD)
[Puerto Rico Islanders play in the United Soccer Leagues (USL)First Division] - not the same as Major League Soccer (MLS)
BAYAMON, PR -- The Board of Directors of the PR Islanders announce the appointment and hiring of former Major League Soccer FC Dallas head coach Colin Clarke to assume the direction of the team for the USL First Division 2007 season.
Colin Clarke, 44, brings his highly regarded experience, both as a successful international player and coach for both MLS and USL First Division (formerly A-League). Clarke holds an FA (British) coaching badge and a USSF Class "A" coaching license.
His professional coaching career in USL began in 1998 when he guided the USL First Division Richmond Kickers to a 38-18 regular season record and playoff appearances in both 1998 and 1999 USL Seasons. Thereafter he was the head coach for the San Diego Flash of USL-1, guiding the team to a 16-9-3 record and a second place finish in the Pacific Division. In 2001 he was hired as the Assistant Coach for MLS FC Dallas, for three years until 2003 and was the Interim Head Coach for the final six matches of the 2003 season.
In the summer of 2005, Clarke and his coaching staff were selected to lead the MLS All-Star team in the summer classic against Fulham FC by virtue of having a League-best 34 points through July 4. With a league-high six FC Dallas players on the MLS roster, Clarke's side defeated Fulham 4-1.
Clarke led FC Dallas to the MLS Cup playoffs in 2004 and 2005 as regular seasons champs. Under Clarke's direction FC Dallas achieved many milestones during the 2006 regular season in posting a record of 16-12-4 (52 points): The 16 wins led MLS and equaled the most wins in regulation in team history. He was appointed head coach at USL First Division's Virginia Beach Mariners in January 2007 until USL announced the franchise's dissolution.
Clarke's outstanding playing career includes 38 appearances with the Northern Ireland National Team, where he scored 13 goals, including a goal vs. Spain in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. He played in the English Leagues from 1981-93 with six different teams, including Portsmouth, Southampton and Queens Park Rangers. During his 12-year career, he played in 361 English League matches and tallied 146 goals.
The Islanders' former head coach Toribio Rojas will continue to be an important part of Islanders' organization in the rapidly expanding youth development programs. Mr. Rojas has made a historic contribution to Puerto Rican soccer during the past ten years."The Islanders and Puerto Rico have a debt to Mr. Rojas for his dedication and support to this effort," said Andres Guillemard, president of PRI.
Clarke will meet the players during practice scheduled for Wednesday morning at "La Islandera" and will join the team on Thursday in Minnesota for the rematch to be played on Saturday May 26th, at National Sports Center.
"I am very excited to joining the Islanders franchise and to make this team reach a whole new level," said new PR Islanders Head Coach Colin Clarke.
Announcement
About the United Soccer League (USL)
30 Years Since The Dave Sexton Era Came to a Close at QPR
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Thirty Years ago (yesterday): May 23rd 1977: Dave Sexton's last game in charge of QPR. QPR drew that final game 2-2 against Birmingham (Masson and Webb scoring for QPR.
QPR's team:
Parkes
Gillard Webb McClintock Hollins
Kelly Leach Masson Thomas
Givens Eastoe -
Sub Abbot
Thus ended the 2 1/2 Year Dave Sexton era, in which Sexton basically inherited the Gordon Jago team and first guided to safety; the following season guided QPR to the League Championship (except QPR were 'robbed' at the very end!). And the following season guided the team to the League Cup Semi-Finals and EUFA Cup Quarter-Finals (again robbed!)..
A few weeks later, Dave Sexton was appointed manager of Manchester United (after initially seeming to be set to coach at Arsenal. And Frank Sibley was QPR's new manager.
1976-77 League Table
1975/76 League Table
1975-1976 Results
1974/75 League Table
See Also:Dave's Queens Park Rangers Profile of Dave Sexton - Dave Sexton
Dave Sexton's Bio - Wikipedia on Dave Sexton
FA on Sexton - Sexton
PLAYERS FROM THAT ERA INTERVIEWED
Ron Norris/QPR Net's Interview with Don Masson about Dave Sexton Don Masson Interview
Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with Don Givens - Don Givens Interview
Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with Frank Sibley - Frank Sibley Interview
Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with John Hollins - John Hollins Interview
Thirty Years ago (yesterday): May 23rd 1977: Dave Sexton's last game in charge of QPR. QPR drew that final game 2-2 against Birmingham (Masson and Webb scoring for QPR.
QPR's team:
Parkes
Gillard Webb McClintock Hollins
Kelly Leach Masson Thomas
Givens Eastoe -
Sub Abbot
Thus ended the 2 1/2 Year Dave Sexton era, in which Sexton basically inherited the Gordon Jago team and first guided to safety; the following season guided QPR to the League Championship (except QPR were 'robbed' at the very end!). And the following season guided the team to the League Cup Semi-Finals and EUFA Cup Quarter-Finals (again robbed!)..
A few weeks later, Dave Sexton was appointed manager of Manchester United (after initially seeming to be set to coach at Arsenal. And Frank Sibley was QPR's new manager.
1976-77 League Table
1975/76 League Table
1975-1976 Results
1974/75 League Table
See Also:Dave's Queens Park Rangers Profile of Dave Sexton - Dave Sexton
Dave Sexton's Bio - Wikipedia on Dave Sexton
FA on Sexton - Sexton
PLAYERS FROM THAT ERA INTERVIEWED
Ron Norris/QPR Net's Interview with Don Masson about Dave Sexton Don Masson Interview
Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with Don Givens - Don Givens Interview
Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with Frank Sibley - Frank Sibley Interview
Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with John Hollins - John Hollins Interview
Cook on His Playing Future...Ainsworth on His Recovery
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Lee Cook Icons Diary on His Holiday, His Awards and his FUTURE
I've just come back from holiday in Dubai with my girlfriend. ...Before I went out to Dubai, I was lucky enough to pick up a few awards, and I was over the moon with them.
At the final game of the season against Stoke I picked up the Tony Ingham Suite award ...I picked up the Players' Player of the Year and the Supporters Player of the Year awards. ...
As for my future, I'm told there are still people interested in me, but I'm not sure what offers are going to come in. My agent is pretty certain there will be offers, so then it's just a case of whether the club accepts them. It's a long time until the end of August, so anything could happen. Like I've said before, until the club accepts an offer for me I'm a QPR player, and very happy to be one. Icons
QPR Official Site Gareth Ainsworth - FOOT ON THE GAZ
The cast is off and that's music to the ears of Rock & Roll midfielder Gareth Ainsworth, as he battles his way back from a broken leg.
The winger, who sustained a spiral fracture of his left fibula in the first half of the R's fixture against Luton Town on April 9th, returned to Harlington on Thursday morning, as he prepares for the next step of his rehabilitation.
In an exclusive interview with www.qpr.co.uk, the fans' favourite spoke of his frustrations of the last few weeks: "It's been a nightmare to be honest.
"Missing the last few games of the season was a blow in itself, but being on crutches for such a long period was even more frustrating.''
Ainsworth, who had his cast removed on Wednesday afternoon, added: "I've got to look to the future now and I'm looking forward to getting back in the gym and stepping up my rehab.''
Physio Prav Mathema, who is continuing to monitor Ainsworth's progress prior to his departure from the Club at the end of June, is adamant the midfielder will be firing on all cylinders for the start of pre-season.
"The aim is to get Gareth back to full fitness for the start of pre-season training,'' he said.
"The aim is to get Gareth back to full fitness for the start of pre-season training.''
"It's such a crucial period for a footballer, so we'll be doing everything we can to get him fit for the start of July.'' QPR
Lee Cook Icons Diary on His Holiday, His Awards and his FUTURE
I've just come back from holiday in Dubai with my girlfriend. ...Before I went out to Dubai, I was lucky enough to pick up a few awards, and I was over the moon with them.
At the final game of the season against Stoke I picked up the Tony Ingham Suite award ...I picked up the Players' Player of the Year and the Supporters Player of the Year awards. ...
As for my future, I'm told there are still people interested in me, but I'm not sure what offers are going to come in. My agent is pretty certain there will be offers, so then it's just a case of whether the club accepts them. It's a long time until the end of August, so anything could happen. Like I've said before, until the club accepts an offer for me I'm a QPR player, and very happy to be one. Icons
QPR Official Site Gareth Ainsworth - FOOT ON THE GAZ
The cast is off and that's music to the ears of Rock & Roll midfielder Gareth Ainsworth, as he battles his way back from a broken leg.
The winger, who sustained a spiral fracture of his left fibula in the first half of the R's fixture against Luton Town on April 9th, returned to Harlington on Thursday morning, as he prepares for the next step of his rehabilitation.
In an exclusive interview with www.qpr.co.uk, the fans' favourite spoke of his frustrations of the last few weeks: "It's been a nightmare to be honest.
"Missing the last few games of the season was a blow in itself, but being on crutches for such a long period was even more frustrating.''
Ainsworth, who had his cast removed on Wednesday afternoon, added: "I've got to look to the future now and I'm looking forward to getting back in the gym and stepping up my rehab.''
Physio Prav Mathema, who is continuing to monitor Ainsworth's progress prior to his departure from the Club at the end of June, is adamant the midfielder will be firing on all cylinders for the start of pre-season.
"The aim is to get Gareth back to full fitness for the start of pre-season training,'' he said.
"The aim is to get Gareth back to full fitness for the start of pre-season training.''
"It's such a crucial period for a footballer, so we'll be doing everything we can to get him fit for the start of July.'' QPR
Four Years Ago Today (Tonight): Fire Alarms Rang Out in Cardiff For QPR Players
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Twas the night before the playoff final against Cardiff City....QPR Players were sleeping at the Celtic Mannor hotel...The fire alarm went off...All the guests were awoken, including the QPR player...Turned out it was a false alarm set off by one Neil MacNamara, previously a "Security Guard" with Cardiff City (also described as "former minder of Cardiff City Football Club owner Sam Hammam." Was also described as a "former bodyguard" of Sam Hammam)
"QPR Hotel Alarm - Man Charged"
"Ex-soccer minder admits hoax"
"Fan says he set off alarm in hotel of rival team"
"Ex Minder Gets Five Year Soccer Ban"
Pre-Fire Alarm Story "Key test for war on hooligans" and Story
Hammam minder sent to jail
From 2006 - "Ex-minder is jailed for tax dodge"
The eve of QPR's Playoff Final against Cardiff at the Millenium Stadium
Twas the night before the playoff final against Cardiff City....QPR Players were sleeping at the Celtic Mannor hotel...The fire alarm went off...All the guests were awoken, including the QPR player...Turned out it was a false alarm set off by one Neil MacNamara, previously a "Security Guard" with Cardiff City (also described as "former minder of Cardiff City Football Club owner Sam Hammam." Was also described as a "former bodyguard" of Sam Hammam)
"QPR Hotel Alarm - Man Charged"
"Ex-soccer minder admits hoax"
"Fan says he set off alarm in hotel of rival team"
"Ex Minder Gets Five Year Soccer Ban"
Pre-Fire Alarm Story "Key test for war on hooligans" and Story
Hammam minder sent to jail
From 2006 - "Ex-minder is jailed for tax dodge"
The eve of QPR's Playoff Final against Cardiff at the Millenium Stadium
Ex-QPR Chairman Bill Power on Swindon's Possible "Mystery" Investor
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This is Wiltshire -SWINDON TOWN: Power still ready to deal
By Andy Cryer
Bill Power insists news of a potential mystery investor at the County Ground is "wonderful" for the club but has reassured fans his money is still there if it proves another false dawn.
The Town investor is backing the fans' consortium's takeover bid with big money but has described any rival investor as "only positive news for Swindon Town."
The former QPR chairman, who has already invested in the region of £1m into the club, believes the longer the saga continues the more likely it is the club will change hands, while insisting it does not matter who provides the funds.
The last few months have seen talks stall between the club and the consortium but, with the Non Disclosure Agreement still unsigned, Power has stated categorically he will not just walk away.
Last week, the Swindon Advertiser revealed the club were on the verge of sealing a multi-million pound deal with an investor and, despite cynicism from many, Power says he has no reason to doubt their claims.
He has though urged the current owners to explore all their options while admitting talks would have to progress quicker with the mystery investor' than they have with the consortium, if anything was to be finalised in the near future.
He said: "I haven't been that involved in things at the moment but obviously I have read all the rumours and do know the latest.
"If someone else is going to come in and invest more money into the club than us, then great, and I mean that.
"I think if this proves to be the case everyone will be happy.
"Not a single Swindon Town fan out there would deny if someone with money is out there, and with the interests of the club, then it is great stuff.
"But I won't hold my breath for things to happen too soon.
"Because if negotiations happen as quickly as they have with us, then nothing is going to happen for a long time."
Power, who was injured in a plane crash on his way back from Town's opening league game at Hartlepool last season, has already said he is prepared to pay over the odds for the club.
But he also admits he does not have a "bottomless wallet" and if someone can give the club more than him, then he will happily step aside.
He said: "We are still talking with the club.
"In the last couple of days more questions went back to be clarified and I don't think either party are going to rush things.
"We have still not seen the books and are waiting for our accountants to see them.
"It is pretty simple really they will have a look and say the club is worth X amount.
"I have said all along. If you tell me the club is worth X amount, I will pay X plus £1m.
"But if this investor can invest substantially more, of course the club should snap their hand off.
"The only way to look at this situation is in a positive way.
"If someone is out there, and I have no reason to question that, who can financially take the club on quicker then it is good news.
"I don't have bottomless funds, mind you I'm not sure anyone does.
"Still if someone has £50m to play with then losing £1m doesn't seem as much of a problem."
While many Town fans see the club's latest mystery investor as just another way of stalling Power & co's takeover bid, the man himself insists he won't be driven away.
"It is hard to believe anyone will have more interest for the club than we have," said Power.
"But let's not bring a negative side to this story.
"My money is here and it will be until I am told they are definitely going elsewhere.
"I think these are exciting times for Town fans.
"Money may not be everything but it does make things easier. If this investor can speed things ups then brilliant.
"All we want is for the club to get another promotion as soon as they can."
This is Wiltshire
See also - "May 20 -Update on Ex-QPR Chairman Bill Power's Swindon Investment Effort
This is Wiltshire -SWINDON TOWN: Power still ready to deal
By Andy Cryer
Bill Power insists news of a potential mystery investor at the County Ground is "wonderful" for the club but has reassured fans his money is still there if it proves another false dawn.
The Town investor is backing the fans' consortium's takeover bid with big money but has described any rival investor as "only positive news for Swindon Town."
The former QPR chairman, who has already invested in the region of £1m into the club, believes the longer the saga continues the more likely it is the club will change hands, while insisting it does not matter who provides the funds.
The last few months have seen talks stall between the club and the consortium but, with the Non Disclosure Agreement still unsigned, Power has stated categorically he will not just walk away.
Last week, the Swindon Advertiser revealed the club were on the verge of sealing a multi-million pound deal with an investor and, despite cynicism from many, Power says he has no reason to doubt their claims.
He has though urged the current owners to explore all their options while admitting talks would have to progress quicker with the mystery investor' than they have with the consortium, if anything was to be finalised in the near future.
He said: "I haven't been that involved in things at the moment but obviously I have read all the rumours and do know the latest.
"If someone else is going to come in and invest more money into the club than us, then great, and I mean that.
"I think if this proves to be the case everyone will be happy.
"Not a single Swindon Town fan out there would deny if someone with money is out there, and with the interests of the club, then it is great stuff.
"But I won't hold my breath for things to happen too soon.
"Because if negotiations happen as quickly as they have with us, then nothing is going to happen for a long time."
Power, who was injured in a plane crash on his way back from Town's opening league game at Hartlepool last season, has already said he is prepared to pay over the odds for the club.
But he also admits he does not have a "bottomless wallet" and if someone can give the club more than him, then he will happily step aside.
He said: "We are still talking with the club.
"In the last couple of days more questions went back to be clarified and I don't think either party are going to rush things.
"We have still not seen the books and are waiting for our accountants to see them.
"It is pretty simple really they will have a look and say the club is worth X amount.
"I have said all along. If you tell me the club is worth X amount, I will pay X plus £1m.
"But if this investor can invest substantially more, of course the club should snap their hand off.
"The only way to look at this situation is in a positive way.
"If someone is out there, and I have no reason to question that, who can financially take the club on quicker then it is good news.
"I don't have bottomless funds, mind you I'm not sure anyone does.
"Still if someone has £50m to play with then losing £1m doesn't seem as much of a problem."
While many Town fans see the club's latest mystery investor as just another way of stalling Power & co's takeover bid, the man himself insists he won't be driven away.
"It is hard to believe anyone will have more interest for the club than we have," said Power.
"But let's not bring a negative side to this story.
"My money is here and it will be until I am told they are definitely going elsewhere.
"I think these are exciting times for Town fans.
"Money may not be everything but it does make things easier. If this investor can speed things ups then brilliant.
"All we want is for the club to get another promotion as soon as they can."
This is Wiltshire
See also - "May 20 -Update on Ex-QPR Chairman Bill Power's Swindon Investment Effort
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Golf With Tony Roberts (and some other ex-QPR Players)
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As part of the Tony Roberts Testimonial Year:
Dagenham - Robbo's Golf Day
Tony Roberts is inviting golfers to attend his testimonial celebrity golf day at Nazeing Golf Club on June 28.
Teams of three are invited at £300 (or £100 for individual players). Each trio will be allocated a current or former celebrity to make up a four ball.
The day kicks off with breakfast at 11am before tee off at 1pm. A three course dinner and auction will then be held in the club house at 7pm.
Tony said: “It will be a great day. I’ve been lucky enough to meet a lot of great blokes over the years and I’m grateful to them for being able to attend.
“I’ve got a load more players who are looking to come, but what with it being this time of year, a few of them need to check their holiday plans. As soon as they’ve confirmed then it will be made public.
“My testimonial year couldn’t have come at a better time. What with promotion last month this is a real celebration for me and I hope that any keen golfers out there will turn up for what will be a great day.”
Those who have already confirmed their attendance include: Ray Wilkins (Chelsea, Manchester United, AC Milan, QPR), Marc Bircham (Millwall, QPR), Paul Jones (Southampton, QPR, Wales), Clarke Carlisle (QPR, Leeds, Watford) and Richard Lee (Watford), with many more from Arsenal, Tottenham, West Ham, QPR and Watford set to confirm.
For more details or to book, call 07871 495 819.
Dagenham
As part of the Tony Roberts Testimonial Year:
Dagenham - Robbo's Golf Day
Tony Roberts is inviting golfers to attend his testimonial celebrity golf day at Nazeing Golf Club on June 28.
Teams of three are invited at £300 (or £100 for individual players). Each trio will be allocated a current or former celebrity to make up a four ball.
The day kicks off with breakfast at 11am before tee off at 1pm. A three course dinner and auction will then be held in the club house at 7pm.
Tony said: “It will be a great day. I’ve been lucky enough to meet a lot of great blokes over the years and I’m grateful to them for being able to attend.
“I’ve got a load more players who are looking to come, but what with it being this time of year, a few of them need to check their holiday plans. As soon as they’ve confirmed then it will be made public.
“My testimonial year couldn’t have come at a better time. What with promotion last month this is a real celebration for me and I hope that any keen golfers out there will turn up for what will be a great day.”
Those who have already confirmed their attendance include: Ray Wilkins (Chelsea, Manchester United, AC Milan, QPR), Marc Bircham (Millwall, QPR), Paul Jones (Southampton, QPR, Wales), Clarke Carlisle (QPR, Leeds, Watford) and Richard Lee (Watford), with many more from Arsenal, Tottenham, West Ham, QPR and Watford set to confirm.
For more details or to book, call 07871 495 819.
Dagenham
Wycombe, Here We Come! July 28: Wycombe vs QPR
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QPR Official Site - WYCOMBE DATE
The R's will travel to Adams Park - the home of Wycombe Wanderers - for a pre-season friendly on Saturday 28th July.
The Club today (Wednesday) finalised the details of the friendly fixture, in what promises to be an emotional day for gaffer John Gregory, who takes his charges to the home of one of his former Club's.
Speaking about the tie, Gregory - who was in charge at Wanderers between 1996 and 1998 - said: "I loved my time at Wycombe and it will be a pleasure to take the R's to Adams Park.
"I'm really looking forward to it." QPR Official Site
WYCOMBE OFFICIAL SITE - RANGERS COMING TO TOWN
Written by: Alan Parry - 23/05/07
Former Blues manager John Gregory will return to Adams Park on Saturday July 28th when the Wanderers meet Queens Park Rangers in a pre-season friendly (kick-off 3pm).
Gregory took charge at Wycombe in 1996, replacing Alan Smith at the helm, and steered the team away from the relegation zone in Division Two. The following season, he guided Wycombe to a comfortable mid-table position before accepting an offer to take charge at Aston Villa.
Said Gregory: "I loved my time at Wycombe. The board was really supportive and they gave me the money to build a decent squad. I know that Wycombe fans still think a lot of the players I brought in, like Martin Taylor, Michael Simpson and Mark Stallard.
"It was a team that was destined for success and I'd have loved to have seen it through but I simply couldn't refuse the chance to take over at Villa. I'd been there previously when Brian Little was there and it's a huge club."
Gregory added: "Wycombe has always been special to me. I've always looked out for their results since I left and I know that Steve Hayes is steering the club in the right direction."
"It will be a pleasure to take QPR to Adams Park and I'm really looking forward to it."
Wanderers fans will be curious to know which side Tommy Doherty will be playing for when the two teams meet. The tenacious midfielder, who spent most of the season with the Wanderers on loan from QPR, is one of Paul Lambert's number one transfer targets and the Blues boss is still confident that a deal can be struck.
The visitors QPR will be Wanderers' only home friendly before the start of season 2007/08. Away games are planned against Maidenhead United on Tuesday 31st July (k.o. 7.45pm) and Oxford United on Friday 3rd August (k.o. 7.45pm) , while the Blues will also be sending a team to Holmer Green FC to help the local club celebrate their centenary on a date still to be confirmed. Wycombe Official
Story includes photo of Gregory and Richard Hill
QPR Official Site - WYCOMBE DATE
The R's will travel to Adams Park - the home of Wycombe Wanderers - for a pre-season friendly on Saturday 28th July.
The Club today (Wednesday) finalised the details of the friendly fixture, in what promises to be an emotional day for gaffer John Gregory, who takes his charges to the home of one of his former Club's.
Speaking about the tie, Gregory - who was in charge at Wanderers between 1996 and 1998 - said: "I loved my time at Wycombe and it will be a pleasure to take the R's to Adams Park.
"I'm really looking forward to it." QPR Official Site
WYCOMBE OFFICIAL SITE - RANGERS COMING TO TOWN
Written by: Alan Parry - 23/05/07
Former Blues manager John Gregory will return to Adams Park on Saturday July 28th when the Wanderers meet Queens Park Rangers in a pre-season friendly (kick-off 3pm).
Gregory took charge at Wycombe in 1996, replacing Alan Smith at the helm, and steered the team away from the relegation zone in Division Two. The following season, he guided Wycombe to a comfortable mid-table position before accepting an offer to take charge at Aston Villa.
Said Gregory: "I loved my time at Wycombe. The board was really supportive and they gave me the money to build a decent squad. I know that Wycombe fans still think a lot of the players I brought in, like Martin Taylor, Michael Simpson and Mark Stallard.
"It was a team that was destined for success and I'd have loved to have seen it through but I simply couldn't refuse the chance to take over at Villa. I'd been there previously when Brian Little was there and it's a huge club."
Gregory added: "Wycombe has always been special to me. I've always looked out for their results since I left and I know that Steve Hayes is steering the club in the right direction."
"It will be a pleasure to take QPR to Adams Park and I'm really looking forward to it."
Wanderers fans will be curious to know which side Tommy Doherty will be playing for when the two teams meet. The tenacious midfielder, who spent most of the season with the Wanderers on loan from QPR, is one of Paul Lambert's number one transfer targets and the Blues boss is still confident that a deal can be struck.
The visitors QPR will be Wanderers' only home friendly before the start of season 2007/08. Away games are planned against Maidenhead United on Tuesday 31st July (k.o. 7.45pm) and Oxford United on Friday 3rd August (k.o. 7.45pm) , while the Blues will also be sending a team to Holmer Green FC to help the local club celebrate their centenary on a date still to be confirmed. Wycombe Official
Story includes photo of Gregory and Richard Hill
Gregory on "Inherit[ing] a lot of rubbish" & Coming Backroom Additions
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QPR Official Site - A CLEAN SLATE
John Gregory insists it's time to forget the recent past and focus on the immediate future at QPR.
The R's gaffer is determined to improve upon last season's 18th place finish and as such, he believes it is of paramount importance to start the new campaign with a clean slate.
"It's very much a clean slate for everyone connected to QPR,'' he told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I inherited a lot of rubbish right the way through this Club, but as much as I wanted to change things, at the time, the focus was entirely upon guaranteeing our safety.
"We've done that and now we can start to build for the future - there can be no excuses anymore.''
Part of Gregory's rebuilding process will include changes to his backroom team.
"There will be a few staffing additions,'' he said.
"I'll be sitting down with Warren Neill, but there are others I'm hoping to add to my backroom team too.
"For instance, we need to replace (Head Physiotherapist) Prav Mathema, so it's going to be a busy summer.'' QPR
QPR Official Site - A CLEAN SLATE
John Gregory insists it's time to forget the recent past and focus on the immediate future at QPR.
The R's gaffer is determined to improve upon last season's 18th place finish and as such, he believes it is of paramount importance to start the new campaign with a clean slate.
"It's very much a clean slate for everyone connected to QPR,'' he told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I inherited a lot of rubbish right the way through this Club, but as much as I wanted to change things, at the time, the focus was entirely upon guaranteeing our safety.
"We've done that and now we can start to build for the future - there can be no excuses anymore.''
Part of Gregory's rebuilding process will include changes to his backroom team.
"There will be a few staffing additions,'' he said.
"I'll be sitting down with Warren Neill, but there are others I'm hoping to add to my backroom team too.
"For instance, we need to replace (Head Physiotherapist) Prav Mathema, so it's going to be a busy summer.'' QPR
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