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QPR Official Site -DEAL FOR NEILL
The Club are delighted to announce that Warren Neill will be staying on as Coach.
The 44 year-old, who spent eight successful years in W12 as a player, joined John Gregory's backroom team on a temporary basis towards the end of last season.....QPR
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Wednesday, June 27, 2007
QPR's Wycombe and Shrewsbury Friendlyies- Ticket Information
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QPR play at Wycombe, July 28 and at Shrewsbury, July 31.
Wycombe Official Site - QUID A KID FOR QPR
By Matt Cecil - 26/06/07
Wycombe Fans
Tickets for the friendly with Queens Park Rangers on Saturday 28th July will go on sale tomorrow morning, and kids can watch the Blues in action for just £1.
The match will be Wanderers fans' only chance to see their side in action at Adams Park ahead of the 2007/08 season, with new signings Martin Bullock, Craig Woodman, Scott Shearer, David McCracken and Leon Johnson all likely to feature against the Championship side.
Fans will be able to purchase tickets online or over the phone from 9.15am tomorrow (Wednesday 26th June), and tickets will be dispached after Tuesday 10th July.
The prices for the game are as follows:
Seating (BCUC Stand and Family Enclosure):
Adults: £15
Students/Seniors: £10
Under-16s: £1
Standing (Valley Terrace):
Adults: £10
Students/Seniors: £8
Under-16s: £1
Call 01494 441118 to book your tickets or click here to enter the online booking process.Wycombe
SHREWSBURY - JULY 31 No Ticket Information yet (or even an announcement on the Shrewsbury site) - QPR Announcement
but photos of their new stadium photos of their new stadium
More Photos
Old Photos
[Shrewsbury have a webcam at their stadium - something QPR spoke about years ago, of having]
QPR play at Wycombe, July 28 and at Shrewsbury, July 31.
Wycombe Official Site - QUID A KID FOR QPR
By Matt Cecil - 26/06/07
Wycombe Fans
Tickets for the friendly with Queens Park Rangers on Saturday 28th July will go on sale tomorrow morning, and kids can watch the Blues in action for just £1.
The match will be Wanderers fans' only chance to see their side in action at Adams Park ahead of the 2007/08 season, with new signings Martin Bullock, Craig Woodman, Scott Shearer, David McCracken and Leon Johnson all likely to feature against the Championship side.
Fans will be able to purchase tickets online or over the phone from 9.15am tomorrow (Wednesday 26th June), and tickets will be dispached after Tuesday 10th July.
The prices for the game are as follows:
Seating (BCUC Stand and Family Enclosure):
Adults: £15
Students/Seniors: £10
Under-16s: £1
Standing (Valley Terrace):
Adults: £10
Students/Seniors: £8
Under-16s: £1
Call 01494 441118 to book your tickets or click here to enter the online booking process.Wycombe
SHREWSBURY - JULY 31 No Ticket Information yet (or even an announcement on the Shrewsbury site) - QPR Announcement
but photos of their new stadium photos of their new stadium
More Photos
Old Photos
[Shrewsbury have a webcam at their stadium - something QPR spoke about years ago, of having]
One Year Flashback: QPR Players Report Back...Waddock Looks Forward...Justin Skinner Appointed Reserve Coach
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On this day, last year....
June 27, 2006 -QPR Official Site - BACK TO WORK
Gary Waddock welcomes his squad back to pre-season training on Thursday and the message is clear: The hard work begins now!
The R's first team squad return for pre-season training tomorrow morning, buoyed by the addition of two new signings - in the shape of Armel Tchakounte and Damion Stewart - and the imminent arrival of Nick Ward from Perth Glory.
But Waddock insists it's time for the talking to stop and for the real work to begin.
"Pre-season is the worst possible time for professional footballers, but at the same time it's the most important,'' Waddock told qpr.co.uk.
"They've been under strict instructions over the summer months and we're expecting them to return in good condition on Thursday morning.
"Pre-season will be very tough this year, but the benefits will be clear for all to see. The players will head to Burnley on the first day of the campaign as fit as they possibly can be and that will give us the best opportunity to make a decent start.''
The first team squad return to Harlington tomorrow (Thursday)
Waddock revealed internationals Paul Jones and Damion Stewart will have an extra few days to recharge the batteries after their involvement for their respective countries over the summer, with the pair set to return to Harlington next Wednesday.
"Damion and Paul played a few games for Jamaica and Wales respectively over the summer, so it's only right they get a few more days off than the rest of the squad,'' Waddock told qpr.co.uk.
"We've already added two good players to the squad and with Ward due in next week and one or two others hopefully following in due course, we're all really looking forward to the new campaign.''QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - IN RESERVE
QPR are delighted to announce the appointment of Justin Skinner as their new Reserve team manager.
Skinner, who played alongside Gary Waddock during his playing days at Bristol Rovers, joins the Club after a successful spell as coach in the academy set-up at Chelsea.
The 37 year-old - whose career also included spells at Fulham, Walsall, Hibernian and Dunfermline Athletic - is delighted to cross paths with his long time friend and fellow playing colleague once again.
"It's a fantastic opportunity for me and one which I'll relish,'' Skinner told qpr.co.uk.
"Gary and I have been friends for a very long time now and when he asked me on board I never had any doubts that it was a good move for me.
"I'm really happy to be here and I'm looking forward to the season ahead.''
Skinner has previous experience with the QPR academy set-up, as well as a spell coaching at Windsor & Eton FC.
"I really enjoyed my previous spell here but this is a different challenge altogether,'' added Skinner.
"It's a massive test, but one which I'm really optimistic about.
"I've been in the situation as a Reserve team player before, so I know what it's all about. I'm the link between Gary and Macca and the first team squad, and Joe Gallen and the youth set-up.''
Waddock himself was delighted with the appointment, commenting: "Justin will prove to be an excellent addition to the already strong backroom staff we have here at QPR.
"He's not only a good friend of mine, but is also a football man through and through.
"He's a bright, young, talented coach and will bring an array of new ideas and initiatives to the training ground.''QPR
On this day, last year....
June 27, 2006 -QPR Official Site - BACK TO WORK
Gary Waddock welcomes his squad back to pre-season training on Thursday and the message is clear: The hard work begins now!
The R's first team squad return for pre-season training tomorrow morning, buoyed by the addition of two new signings - in the shape of Armel Tchakounte and Damion Stewart - and the imminent arrival of Nick Ward from Perth Glory.
But Waddock insists it's time for the talking to stop and for the real work to begin.
"Pre-season is the worst possible time for professional footballers, but at the same time it's the most important,'' Waddock told qpr.co.uk.
"They've been under strict instructions over the summer months and we're expecting them to return in good condition on Thursday morning.
"Pre-season will be very tough this year, but the benefits will be clear for all to see. The players will head to Burnley on the first day of the campaign as fit as they possibly can be and that will give us the best opportunity to make a decent start.''
The first team squad return to Harlington tomorrow (Thursday)
Waddock revealed internationals Paul Jones and Damion Stewart will have an extra few days to recharge the batteries after their involvement for their respective countries over the summer, with the pair set to return to Harlington next Wednesday.
"Damion and Paul played a few games for Jamaica and Wales respectively over the summer, so it's only right they get a few more days off than the rest of the squad,'' Waddock told qpr.co.uk.
"We've already added two good players to the squad and with Ward due in next week and one or two others hopefully following in due course, we're all really looking forward to the new campaign.''QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - IN RESERVE
QPR are delighted to announce the appointment of Justin Skinner as their new Reserve team manager.
Skinner, who played alongside Gary Waddock during his playing days at Bristol Rovers, joins the Club after a successful spell as coach in the academy set-up at Chelsea.
The 37 year-old - whose career also included spells at Fulham, Walsall, Hibernian and Dunfermline Athletic - is delighted to cross paths with his long time friend and fellow playing colleague once again.
"It's a fantastic opportunity for me and one which I'll relish,'' Skinner told qpr.co.uk.
"Gary and I have been friends for a very long time now and when he asked me on board I never had any doubts that it was a good move for me.
"I'm really happy to be here and I'm looking forward to the season ahead.''
Skinner has previous experience with the QPR academy set-up, as well as a spell coaching at Windsor & Eton FC.
"I really enjoyed my previous spell here but this is a different challenge altogether,'' added Skinner.
"It's a massive test, but one which I'm really optimistic about.
"I've been in the situation as a Reserve team player before, so I know what it's all about. I'm the link between Gary and Macca and the first team squad, and Joe Gallen and the youth set-up.''
Waddock himself was delighted with the appointment, commenting: "Justin will prove to be an excellent addition to the already strong backroom staff we have here at QPR.
"He's not only a good friend of mine, but is also a football man through and through.
"He's a bright, young, talented coach and will bring an array of new ideas and initiatives to the training ground.''QPR
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
More on Nardiello, Doherty and Paladini "I'm Fed up with Fulham" - Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Dan's R man!
26 June 2007
QPR are set to strengthen their attack by snatching Daniel Nardiello ...on a three-year contract.... John Gregory has been tracking Nardiello - who was also wanted by Coventry - for some time and the deal could be completed as soon as Wednesday....
Rangers rejected an approach from neighbours Fulham [for Lee Cook]last week and chairman Gianni Paladini confirmed that no other concrete bids for Cook have yet been made. He said: "I'm fed up with Fulham, to be honest. I've made it clear that, unless anyone offers the right money, we're not interested in selling our best players."... Derby County have also shown interest in Cook...
Rangers missed out on ... Charlton midfielder Radostin Kishishev decided to sign for Championship rivals Leicester on a free transfer. The Rs were one of four Championship clubs to approach the 32-year-old Bulgarian....
[D]eparting Loftus Road next week is midfielder Tommy Doherty after QPR accepted a bid from Wycombe ...He will move for a small fee-....[Coach] Hill is expected to leave the club shortly after Gregory appointed Colchester assistant manager Mick Harford as first-team coach. Full Article by Ben Kosky at Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Dan's R man!
26 June 2007
QPR are set to strengthen their attack by snatching Daniel Nardiello ...on a three-year contract.... John Gregory has been tracking Nardiello - who was also wanted by Coventry - for some time and the deal could be completed as soon as Wednesday....
Rangers rejected an approach from neighbours Fulham [for Lee Cook]last week and chairman Gianni Paladini confirmed that no other concrete bids for Cook have yet been made. He said: "I'm fed up with Fulham, to be honest. I've made it clear that, unless anyone offers the right money, we're not interested in selling our best players."... Derby County have also shown interest in Cook...
Rangers missed out on ... Charlton midfielder Radostin Kishishev decided to sign for Championship rivals Leicester on a free transfer. The Rs were one of four Championship clubs to approach the 32-year-old Bulgarian....
[D]eparting Loftus Road next week is midfielder Tommy Doherty after QPR accepted a bid from Wycombe ...He will move for a small fee-....[Coach] Hill is expected to leave the club shortly after Gregory appointed Colchester assistant manager Mick Harford as first-team coach. Full Article by Ben Kosky at Kilburn Times
No QPR Nardiello Announcement Yet, but More Barnsley on His Departure
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After yesterday's announcement by Barnsley about Daniel Nardiello, QPR fans spent the rest of yesterday and the beginning of today waiting for an announcement from Queens Park Rangers.
The Star (South Yorkshire) - Reds begin search for a striker
BARNSLEY today began the task of replacing star striker Daniel Nardiello without chief scout Martin Wilkinson.
Newly capped Welsh international Nardiello stunned Oakwell officials yesterday with his 11th hour decision to join QPR.
Wilkinson's departure was one of two behind the scenes changes at Barnsley. Marketing manager Darren Hayes has also left.
Barnsley manager Simon Davey's top priority now is to find a fourth striker for his squad.
He has recruited Kayode Odejayi and Miguel Mostto to join Istvan Ferenczi. As late as yesterday morning he thought he had secured last season's top scorer Nardiello.
But QPR stepped in and the player and his agent drove to London to finalise the free transfer.
Davey explained yesterday: "This has come out of the blue, we had a deal with him on Friday and he was due at the club at 11am. At 12 we got the call saying he was going to QPR.
"We'd made him a very good offer, beat off Coventry. He looked like he was coming back to us."
Davey added that he was still lining up other players. He also confirmed Wilkinson had left Oakwell.
Barnsley chairman Gordon Shepherd told the club's website: "The club are desperately disappointed at Daniel's late, late decision – especially as the deal was all agreed and the paperwork ready on the table for his signature.
"We are also very unhappy at assurances given to us by the player that he would only consider leaving Oakwell for a club closer to his home in the Midlands.
"As we had been hoping to announce Daniel's signature this afternoon, we feel that we have no alternative but to inform our supporters of the events and we are sure that they will share our deep disappointment at the way we have been treated today."
The Star
After yesterday's announcement by Barnsley about Daniel Nardiello, QPR fans spent the rest of yesterday and the beginning of today waiting for an announcement from Queens Park Rangers.
The Star (South Yorkshire) - Reds begin search for a striker
BARNSLEY today began the task of replacing star striker Daniel Nardiello without chief scout Martin Wilkinson.
Newly capped Welsh international Nardiello stunned Oakwell officials yesterday with his 11th hour decision to join QPR.
Wilkinson's departure was one of two behind the scenes changes at Barnsley. Marketing manager Darren Hayes has also left.
Barnsley manager Simon Davey's top priority now is to find a fourth striker for his squad.
He has recruited Kayode Odejayi and Miguel Mostto to join Istvan Ferenczi. As late as yesterday morning he thought he had secured last season's top scorer Nardiello.
But QPR stepped in and the player and his agent drove to London to finalise the free transfer.
Davey explained yesterday: "This has come out of the blue, we had a deal with him on Friday and he was due at the club at 11am. At 12 we got the call saying he was going to QPR.
"We'd made him a very good offer, beat off Coventry. He looked like he was coming back to us."
Davey added that he was still lining up other players. He also confirmed Wilkinson had left Oakwell.
Barnsley chairman Gordon Shepherd told the club's website: "The club are desperately disappointed at Daniel's late, late decision – especially as the deal was all agreed and the paperwork ready on the table for his signature.
"We are also very unhappy at assurances given to us by the player that he would only consider leaving Oakwell for a club closer to his home in the Midlands.
"As we had been hoping to announce Daniel's signature this afternoon, we feel that we have no alternative but to inform our supporters of the events and we are sure that they will share our deep disappointment at the way we have been treated today."
The Star
Negotiations Between QPR & Wycombe Over Tommy Doherty Move Continue
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Wycombe Official Site - LEON JOHNSON SIGNS - By Alan Parry - 25/06/07
"... Wanderers have agreed terms with former Southend and Gillingham defender Leon Johnson, 26, and he passed his medical....The Blues are still waiting to hear if former St.Mirren striker John Sutton has accepted their offer and negotiations are continuing with Queens Park Rangers over the possible transfer of midfielder Tommy Doherty.... Wycombe
Wycombe Official Site - LEON JOHNSON SIGNS - By Alan Parry - 25/06/07
"... Wanderers have agreed terms with former Southend and Gillingham defender Leon Johnson, 26, and he passed his medical....The Blues are still waiting to hear if former St.Mirren striker John Sutton has accepted their offer and negotiations are continuing with Queens Park Rangers over the possible transfer of midfielder Tommy Doherty.... Wycombe
The Players Return
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QPR Official Site - June 26, 2007 - FITNESS FIRST
The R's first team squad returned to pre-season training today (Tuesday), as the hard work begins in earnest ahead of the 2007/08 Coca Cola Championship campaign.
Manager John Gregory, flanked by his backroom staff, put the players through their paces at the Club's Harlington Training Ground this morning.
Sports Performance Manager Joe Dunbar, assisted by members of the R's backroom team, was on hand to test the players' physical fitness levels, ahead of the real work beginning next Wednesday... QPR
Shrewsbury vs QPR: July 31
QPR announce will be playing Shrewsbury, July 31 at Shrewsbury (Not yet announced by Shrewsbury!)
QPR Announce Another Friendly - SHREWS DATE
QPR will play Shrewsbury Town in a pre-season friendly on Tuesday 31st July 2007.
The League Two outfit, who lost out in the Play-Off Final to Bristol Rovers last season, are currently in the process of moving from Gay Meadow to the New Stadium and Rangers will provide the opposition for one of their maiden outings at their new home. The match will kick-off at 7.45pm. QPR
QPR Official Site - June 26, 2007 - FITNESS FIRST
The R's first team squad returned to pre-season training today (Tuesday), as the hard work begins in earnest ahead of the 2007/08 Coca Cola Championship campaign.
Manager John Gregory, flanked by his backroom staff, put the players through their paces at the Club's Harlington Training Ground this morning.
Sports Performance Manager Joe Dunbar, assisted by members of the R's backroom team, was on hand to test the players' physical fitness levels, ahead of the real work beginning next Wednesday... QPR
Shrewsbury vs QPR: July 31
QPR announce will be playing Shrewsbury, July 31 at Shrewsbury (Not yet announced by Shrewsbury!)
QPR Announce Another Friendly - SHREWS DATE
QPR will play Shrewsbury Town in a pre-season friendly on Tuesday 31st July 2007.
The League Two outfit, who lost out in the Play-Off Final to Bristol Rovers last season, are currently in the process of moving from Gay Meadow to the New Stadium and Rangers will provide the opposition for one of their maiden outings at their new home. The match will kick-off at 7.45pm. QPR
Ex-QPR Update: Paul Furlong, Chris Wright, Etc
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The Times - Luton want Furlong
Luton Town want to sign Paul Furlong, the 38-year-old striker who was released by Queens Park Rangers at the end of last season and was considering retirement. Kevin Blackwell, the Luton manager, is keen to offer Furlong a one-year deal as he aims for promotion from Coca-Cola League One. Furlong has played for six clubs since making his league debut for Coventry City in 1991-92 - The Times
[As noted on QPR Report, a couple of days ago, Sunday Telegraph re QPR's former Chairman and current "life President," Chris Wright: : Chrysalis Group to sell radio stations Chrysalis Group is finalising the £170m sale of its radio stations Heart, Galaxy and LBC to financier Michael Tabor. An announcement could come tomorrow. Chief executive Richard Huntingford is expected to announce his resignation, after a handover period. He will receive a bonus estimated at around £1.5m for completing the sale. Chairman Chris Wright will stay on to lead the rump of the company, a music publishing business valued at £105m . Sunday Telegraph
The Times - Chris Wright
Business big shot: Chris Wright by Dan Sabbagh
Chris Wright’s education in the music industry began at Manchester University in the 1960s, where he booked acts such as The Yardbirds and Cream. His graduation in the industry came in 1967 when and Terry Ellis formed Chrysalis, one of the first independent music businesses.
Over the following two decades their acts ranged from Leo Sayer to Blondie and Spandau Ballet.
Trouble hit in the late 1980s, when Mr Wright and Mr Ellis split. In 1989 Mr Wright was forced, amid financial problems, to sell the record label to EMI, a decision he regretted.
He managed to retain the music publishing arm and he helped to build up a television production arm and, from 1994, the Heart and Galaxy radio business. However, hopes of creating a mini-media conglomerate faded this decade. Mr Wright, 62, who is now chairman and a 25 per cent shareholder, has been forced by investor pressure to sell out of television and – yesterday – radio, for £170 million. That leaves him with the music publishing operation behind David Bowie and OutKast, so now he can focus on the business he knows best.
His fortune has been estimated at £95 million but there have been bumps on the road. He bought QPR in 1996. Heavy losses at the long-struggling London club forced him to put it in administration in 2001, costing him about £15 million.
He has retained his interest in sport – he owns Wasps rugby club, which is just about profitable, and the Stratford Place racing stud in Gloucestershire. The Times
The Guardian - Allen makes swift return Chris Tryhorn
Monday June 25, 2007 Guardian
Charles Allen, the former ITV chief who quit under pressure from shareholders, made a swift and unexpected return to the media sector today as the chairman of a private equity buyout of Chrysalis Radio.
Mr Allen is also believed to have a shareholding in the newly created investment firm, Global Radio, which is to buy stations including Heart, Galaxy and LBC for £170m.
Global Radio is led by Ashley Tabor, the son of betting entrepreneur Michael Tabor and the chief executive of Global Talent Group, a music publishing, artist management and rights ownership business. He and Mr Allen were introduced earlier in the year and decided to bid for Chrysalis Radio after it was put on the block in February...
Global Radio is backed by a coalition of wealthy Irishmen, including JP McManus, John Magnier and Dermot Desmond, who all have links to Lydian Capital Partners, a Swiss-based private equity group chaired by Irish entrepreneur Denis Brosnan. The precise breakdown of Global Radio's share register has not been disclosed.
The firm's ambitions in UK radio also remain under wraps as it focuses on completing the Chrysalis deal over the summer. It will be hoping that radio can retain its appeal to advertisers at a time when audiences are fragmenting.
Chrysalis's chief executive, Richard Huntingford, will step down this year after 20 years with the company, because it no longer needs a group management structure. He said yesterday the radio business would be better off in private hands.
"Consolidation led by private groups is definitely the way forward for the commercial radio industry," he said. "We felt the radio industry needed further consolidation but there are limits to financial resources — as a plc you have constraints. Plcs need to work to short-term agendas, but with private companies, consolidation is much easier as it often requires a longer-term view."
Mr Huntingford was responsible for taking Chrysalis into radio with its first licence in 1993, subsequently building it up to be a significant national player. The company put its radio business up for review this year after missing out on a wave of consolidation two years ago.
Chrysalis said yesterday it had made £95m out of the radio business and would return between £90m and £100m to shareholders after the sale to Global Radio.
The exit from radio leaves Chrysalis as a standalone music publishing business and follows its retreat from TV production in 2003 and book publishing two years later. Chrysalis started life in 1967 as an entertainment agency and record label, and its founder Chris Wright remains its chairman and a 26% shareholder. The Guardian
See Chrysalis Press Release "PROPOSED DISPOSAL OF CHRYSALIS RADIO
TO GLOBAL RADIO FOR £170 MILLION"
Steve Morrow Offering His Views about Beckham and US Soccer (Football!)
Lancashire Evening Post - Morrow warns against Beckham miracle
.... FC Dallas coach Steve Morrow does not expect him to do it again with the Los Angeles Galaxy.
Former Arsenal midfielder Morrow last week got a first-hand look at the struggling Galaxy as his team beat them 3-1.
That result left the Galaxy second bottom of the Western Conference in Major League Soccer, with only nine points from as many games.
After watching that game, the former Northern Ireland international believes the Galaxy's problems are too big for Beckham to solve alone.
"They haven't had a good start to the season up to now,'' Morrow said.
"David Beckham on his own isn't going to turn it around and I don't think (Galaxy coach) Frank Yallop expects him to.''
...However, the likes of captain Landon Donovan - one of the highest-paid players in the league prior to this season's influx of foreign stars - ensure there is plenty of pressure on the Galaxy's salary cap.
Morrow, who spent two seasons as a Dallas player after a long career in England, also warned Beckham that life in MLS will not be as easy as many expect it to be for him. For one thing, Beckham can expect opposing defenders to single him out.
"For sure he will be get special attention,'' Morrow said. "All of the more talented players in the league do get a little more tightly marked, but that is something (Beckham) has dealt with all this career.''
The biggest danger, Morrow believes, is underestimating the league he is joining.
"He certainly can help on the field,'' he said. "But you have to realise the standard is much higher here than people back in Europe think.
"I get offered players all the time and they come over and it's very quickly apparent they are just not up to it.
"I'm forever telling agents that the standard is much higher than they think.''Report
[And from a few weeks ago, news of another ex-QPR player, now in the USA: John Spencer
Daily Record "[JOHN]SPENCER SUED BY CLUB OVER £100K
"....Ex-Scotland international John Spencer is being sued by Motherwell FC for a loan which was registered with the Scottish Premier League.
Papers lodged at Hamilton Sheriff Court claim the club gave Spencer £100,000 interest-free when he signed in 1999.
Lawyers say they fear that Spencer, who now lives in Texas and is thought to own properties here, could try to move his assets abroad or sell them off.
The club also want interest at eight per cent from when they claim the loan was due to be repaid in January last year.
Lawyers for Spencer - a coach at Houston Dynamo - say they will fight the action, expected to be heard next month.
Another action for a separate loan of £358,000 Motherwell claim they gave Spencer is still outstanding.
Spencer, capped 14 times for Scotland, was Motherwell's record signing when he joined from Everton in a £500,000 deal.
The case is due to be heard in May and witnesses could include Rangers manager Walter Smith, who was Everton boss at the time, and Derby County manager Billy Davies, Spencer's brother-in-law, who was then Motherwell boss.
A spokesman for the club said yesterday: "It is well known that we have had a long-running dispute. This action is part of that."
At the family home in Texas, Spencer's wife Amanda, 36, said: "There are issues surrounding these so-called loans so this is why we are not willing to back off."
Daily Record
Spencer is currently Assistant coach at Houston Dynamo - Spencer
The Times - Luton want Furlong
Luton Town want to sign Paul Furlong, the 38-year-old striker who was released by Queens Park Rangers at the end of last season and was considering retirement. Kevin Blackwell, the Luton manager, is keen to offer Furlong a one-year deal as he aims for promotion from Coca-Cola League One. Furlong has played for six clubs since making his league debut for Coventry City in 1991-92 - The Times
[As noted on QPR Report, a couple of days ago, Sunday Telegraph re QPR's former Chairman and current "life President," Chris Wright: : Chrysalis Group to sell radio stations Chrysalis Group is finalising the £170m sale of its radio stations Heart, Galaxy and LBC to financier Michael Tabor. An announcement could come tomorrow. Chief executive Richard Huntingford is expected to announce his resignation, after a handover period. He will receive a bonus estimated at around £1.5m for completing the sale. Chairman Chris Wright will stay on to lead the rump of the company, a music publishing business valued at £105m . Sunday Telegraph
The Times - Chris Wright
Business big shot: Chris Wright by Dan Sabbagh
Chris Wright’s education in the music industry began at Manchester University in the 1960s, where he booked acts such as The Yardbirds and Cream. His graduation in the industry came in 1967 when and Terry Ellis formed Chrysalis, one of the first independent music businesses.
Over the following two decades their acts ranged from Leo Sayer to Blondie and Spandau Ballet.
Trouble hit in the late 1980s, when Mr Wright and Mr Ellis split. In 1989 Mr Wright was forced, amid financial problems, to sell the record label to EMI, a decision he regretted.
He managed to retain the music publishing arm and he helped to build up a television production arm and, from 1994, the Heart and Galaxy radio business. However, hopes of creating a mini-media conglomerate faded this decade. Mr Wright, 62, who is now chairman and a 25 per cent shareholder, has been forced by investor pressure to sell out of television and – yesterday – radio, for £170 million. That leaves him with the music publishing operation behind David Bowie and OutKast, so now he can focus on the business he knows best.
His fortune has been estimated at £95 million but there have been bumps on the road. He bought QPR in 1996. Heavy losses at the long-struggling London club forced him to put it in administration in 2001, costing him about £15 million.
He has retained his interest in sport – he owns Wasps rugby club, which is just about profitable, and the Stratford Place racing stud in Gloucestershire. The Times
The Guardian - Allen makes swift return Chris Tryhorn
Monday June 25, 2007 Guardian
Charles Allen, the former ITV chief who quit under pressure from shareholders, made a swift and unexpected return to the media sector today as the chairman of a private equity buyout of Chrysalis Radio.
Mr Allen is also believed to have a shareholding in the newly created investment firm, Global Radio, which is to buy stations including Heart, Galaxy and LBC for £170m.
Global Radio is led by Ashley Tabor, the son of betting entrepreneur Michael Tabor and the chief executive of Global Talent Group, a music publishing, artist management and rights ownership business. He and Mr Allen were introduced earlier in the year and decided to bid for Chrysalis Radio after it was put on the block in February...
Global Radio is backed by a coalition of wealthy Irishmen, including JP McManus, John Magnier and Dermot Desmond, who all have links to Lydian Capital Partners, a Swiss-based private equity group chaired by Irish entrepreneur Denis Brosnan. The precise breakdown of Global Radio's share register has not been disclosed.
The firm's ambitions in UK radio also remain under wraps as it focuses on completing the Chrysalis deal over the summer. It will be hoping that radio can retain its appeal to advertisers at a time when audiences are fragmenting.
Chrysalis's chief executive, Richard Huntingford, will step down this year after 20 years with the company, because it no longer needs a group management structure. He said yesterday the radio business would be better off in private hands.
"Consolidation led by private groups is definitely the way forward for the commercial radio industry," he said. "We felt the radio industry needed further consolidation but there are limits to financial resources — as a plc you have constraints. Plcs need to work to short-term agendas, but with private companies, consolidation is much easier as it often requires a longer-term view."
Mr Huntingford was responsible for taking Chrysalis into radio with its first licence in 1993, subsequently building it up to be a significant national player. The company put its radio business up for review this year after missing out on a wave of consolidation two years ago.
Chrysalis said yesterday it had made £95m out of the radio business and would return between £90m and £100m to shareholders after the sale to Global Radio.
The exit from radio leaves Chrysalis as a standalone music publishing business and follows its retreat from TV production in 2003 and book publishing two years later. Chrysalis started life in 1967 as an entertainment agency and record label, and its founder Chris Wright remains its chairman and a 26% shareholder. The Guardian
See Chrysalis Press Release "PROPOSED DISPOSAL OF CHRYSALIS RADIO
TO GLOBAL RADIO FOR £170 MILLION"
Steve Morrow Offering His Views about Beckham and US Soccer (Football!)
Lancashire Evening Post - Morrow warns against Beckham miracle
.... FC Dallas coach Steve Morrow does not expect him to do it again with the Los Angeles Galaxy.
Former Arsenal midfielder Morrow last week got a first-hand look at the struggling Galaxy as his team beat them 3-1.
That result left the Galaxy second bottom of the Western Conference in Major League Soccer, with only nine points from as many games.
After watching that game, the former Northern Ireland international believes the Galaxy's problems are too big for Beckham to solve alone.
"They haven't had a good start to the season up to now,'' Morrow said.
"David Beckham on his own isn't going to turn it around and I don't think (Galaxy coach) Frank Yallop expects him to.''
...However, the likes of captain Landon Donovan - one of the highest-paid players in the league prior to this season's influx of foreign stars - ensure there is plenty of pressure on the Galaxy's salary cap.
Morrow, who spent two seasons as a Dallas player after a long career in England, also warned Beckham that life in MLS will not be as easy as many expect it to be for him. For one thing, Beckham can expect opposing defenders to single him out.
"For sure he will be get special attention,'' Morrow said. "All of the more talented players in the league do get a little more tightly marked, but that is something (Beckham) has dealt with all this career.''
The biggest danger, Morrow believes, is underestimating the league he is joining.
"He certainly can help on the field,'' he said. "But you have to realise the standard is much higher here than people back in Europe think.
"I get offered players all the time and they come over and it's very quickly apparent they are just not up to it.
"I'm forever telling agents that the standard is much higher than they think.''Report
[And from a few weeks ago, news of another ex-QPR player, now in the USA: John Spencer
Daily Record "[JOHN]SPENCER SUED BY CLUB OVER £100K
"....Ex-Scotland international John Spencer is being sued by Motherwell FC for a loan which was registered with the Scottish Premier League.
Papers lodged at Hamilton Sheriff Court claim the club gave Spencer £100,000 interest-free when he signed in 1999.
Lawyers say they fear that Spencer, who now lives in Texas and is thought to own properties here, could try to move his assets abroad or sell them off.
The club also want interest at eight per cent from when they claim the loan was due to be repaid in January last year.
Lawyers for Spencer - a coach at Houston Dynamo - say they will fight the action, expected to be heard next month.
Another action for a separate loan of £358,000 Motherwell claim they gave Spencer is still outstanding.
Spencer, capped 14 times for Scotland, was Motherwell's record signing when he joined from Everton in a £500,000 deal.
The case is due to be heard in May and witnesses could include Rangers manager Walter Smith, who was Everton boss at the time, and Derby County manager Billy Davies, Spencer's brother-in-law, who was then Motherwell boss.
A spokesman for the club said yesterday: "It is well known that we have had a long-running dispute. This action is part of that."
At the family home in Texas, Spencer's wife Amanda, 36, said: "There are issues surrounding these so-called loans so this is why we are not willing to back off."
Daily Record
Spencer is currently Assistant coach at Houston Dynamo - Spencer
Monday, June 25, 2007
Barnsley Reporting Striker Daniel Nardiello Signing for QPR (Not Yet Confirmed by QPR)
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Update: It's also been reported by Sky. But NOT as of yet by QPR! So until it is, presumably not yet signed and sealed.
Barnsley have posted on their Official Site that their 24-year old ex-Manchester United striker Daniel Nardiello is joining QPR (This news has been posted on QPR messageboard but as of now it has NOT yet been confirmed/announced by QPR on the QPR Official Site. See Player's Profile And a Welsh profile. Reportedly Coventry had been interested in signing him. Nardiello to QPR is also being reported by the BBC "QPR set to net striker Nardiello"
Barnsley Official Site - REDS DISMAY AT NARDIELLO'S LAST MINUTE U-TURN
STRIKER Daniel Nardiello will not be returning to Barnsley after dramatically and surprisingly turning his back on the Club this afternoon.
With the paperwork prepared and awaiting his signature, the 24-year-old striker was due at Oakwell this morning to sign the contract after agreeing the terms of a new two-year deal with the Reds.
Reds Chairman Gordon Shepherd arrived at Oakwell this morning and added his signature to the documents, which included all the relevant contracts and Agents Agreements.
At 11.00am this morning, Daniel's agent informed the Club that he was just passing Junction 23 on the M1 on his way to Oakwell but progress from the Midlands was slow because of the dreadful weather conditions although he expected to be at Oakwell early in the afternoon to sign.
However, at around 2.00pm this afternoon, Reds manager Simon Davey received a telephone call from Daniel in which he was informed that the player was now at Trowell Services on the M1 and would be returning south after agreeing to join Queens Park Rangers.
Speaking exclusively to www.barnsleyfc.co.uk, Chairman Gordon Shepherd revealed: "The Club are desperately disappointed at Daniel's late, late decision especially as the deal was all agreed and the paperwork ready on the table for his signature.
"We are also very unhappy at assurances given to us by the player that he would only consider leaving Oakwell for a Club closer to his home in the Midlands.
"As we had been hoping to announce Daniel's signature this afternoon, we feel that we have no alternative but to inform our supporters of the events and we are sure that they will share our deep disappointment at the way we have been treated today".
Barnsley Official Site
Update: It's also been reported by Sky. But NOT as of yet by QPR! So until it is, presumably not yet signed and sealed.
Barnsley have posted on their Official Site that their 24-year old ex-Manchester United striker Daniel Nardiello is joining QPR (This news has been posted on QPR messageboard but as of now it has NOT yet been confirmed/announced by QPR on the QPR Official Site. See Player's Profile And a Welsh profile. Reportedly Coventry had been interested in signing him. Nardiello to QPR is also being reported by the BBC "QPR set to net striker Nardiello"
Barnsley Official Site - REDS DISMAY AT NARDIELLO'S LAST MINUTE U-TURN
STRIKER Daniel Nardiello will not be returning to Barnsley after dramatically and surprisingly turning his back on the Club this afternoon.
With the paperwork prepared and awaiting his signature, the 24-year-old striker was due at Oakwell this morning to sign the contract after agreeing the terms of a new two-year deal with the Reds.
Reds Chairman Gordon Shepherd arrived at Oakwell this morning and added his signature to the documents, which included all the relevant contracts and Agents Agreements.
At 11.00am this morning, Daniel's agent informed the Club that he was just passing Junction 23 on the M1 on his way to Oakwell but progress from the Midlands was slow because of the dreadful weather conditions although he expected to be at Oakwell early in the afternoon to sign.
However, at around 2.00pm this afternoon, Reds manager Simon Davey received a telephone call from Daniel in which he was informed that the player was now at Trowell Services on the M1 and would be returning south after agreeing to join Queens Park Rangers.
Speaking exclusively to www.barnsleyfc.co.uk, Chairman Gordon Shepherd revealed: "The Club are desperately disappointed at Daniel's late, late decision especially as the deal was all agreed and the paperwork ready on the table for his signature.
"We are also very unhappy at assurances given to us by the player that he would only consider leaving Oakwell for a Club closer to his home in the Midlands.
"As we had been hoping to announce Daniel's signature this afternoon, we feel that we have no alternative but to inform our supporters of the events and we are sure that they will share our deep disappointment at the way we have been treated today".
Barnsley Official Site
New Work for QPR's New (Yet-to-Be-Announced) Physiotherapist
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QPR are reporting that Pat Kanyuka will miss the start of the pre-season. With QPR's already having two defenders (Sampsa Timoska and Chris Barker) miss the start of the new season, through suspension, hopefully, Kanyuka will recover quickly.
QPR's current Physiotherapist, Prav Mathema, is leaving QPR as of June 30 to join WASPS. John Gregory was reported last week that he was interviewing and would be appointing.
QPR Official Site - PAIN FOR PAT
Pat Kanyuka will miss the start of pre-season after tearing a thigh muscle.
The 19 year-old defender, who was ruled out of Rangers' final fixture of the season after suffering a slight thigh tear in his left leg in the R's penultimate match of the season against Wolves, suffered the injury during a rehabilitation session at Harlington last week.As a result, Kanyuka will now miss the start of the R's pre-season campaign, which begins with a friendly fixture against Celtic at Loftus Road on Sunday 15th July QPR
QPR are reporting that Pat Kanyuka will miss the start of the pre-season. With QPR's already having two defenders (Sampsa Timoska and Chris Barker) miss the start of the new season, through suspension, hopefully, Kanyuka will recover quickly.
QPR's current Physiotherapist, Prav Mathema, is leaving QPR as of June 30 to join WASPS. John Gregory was reported last week that he was interviewing and would be appointing.
QPR Official Site - PAIN FOR PAT
Pat Kanyuka will miss the start of pre-season after tearing a thigh muscle.
The 19 year-old defender, who was ruled out of Rangers' final fixture of the season after suffering a slight thigh tear in his left leg in the R's penultimate match of the season against Wolves, suffered the injury during a rehabilitation session at Harlington last week.As a result, Kanyuka will now miss the start of the R's pre-season campaign, which begins with a friendly fixture against Celtic at Loftus Road on Sunday 15th July QPR
Report of Mancienne to Watford (which would contradict Chairman Paladini's Comments)
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Watford Vital Football is claiming that Chelsea's Mancienne is set to join Watford on season loan. Mancienne to Watford(Previously there have been reports of Mancienne going to other clubs.]
Watford Vital Football - Chelsea youngster tipped to join
Chelsea starlet Michael Mancienne is set to agree a season long loan deal with Watford. Jose Mourinho has made it clear that the highly rated centre back needs to gain some first team experience and believes a spell at Vicarage Road will be of great benefit to the youngster, who spent time at QPR last season. Watford are believed to have gazumped both West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City in their pursuit of the youngster.
Aidy Boothroyd has been monitoring the Manicenne situation for some time, yet hhad to bide his time until Jose managed to bring in a defender - which turned out to be Bolton stalwart Tal Ben Haim. The opportunity is now there and all that remains is for the Stamford Bridge outfit and the Hornets to come to a satisfactory agreement. West London sources have revealed Chelsea want to include a 24 hour recall clause in case they suffer a repeat of the injury nightmare that blighted their 2006/07 campaign. Watford are not so keen on this and are currently trying to persuade Peter Kenyon to 'stick the clause where the sun don`t shine'.
Mancienne, who has been likened to Paulo Maldini in the past is said to be keen on the move so lets hope the Hornets can move as fast as Linford Christie ( 1992 ) in order to seal the deal. Watford
From a Couple of Weeks Ago: [Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times June 5, 2007 -Loan Rangers to return
Michael Mancienne will rejoin QPR on loan next season
QPR have lined up a deal to bring back Chelsea pair Jimmy Smith and Michael Mancienne on six-month loans next season.
The duo will spend pre-season training with the Premiership side and move back to Loftus Road until the end of the year, when Chelsea may recall them as cover during the African Nations' Cup.
And, should the Blues decide to sell either Smith or Mancienne in the meantime, Rangers would gain 10 per cent of the transfer fee under the terms of the agreement.
"The agreement with Chelsea is very good for QPR and it works in our favour financially," declared Rs chairman Gianni Paladini.
"Suppose someone buys Mancienne for £5m, we get £500,000 out of that and that applies to any player they sell who's with us, we get 10 per cent.
"The response from Chelsea is that they're happy to give us both of them for six months. That can only benefit QPR - without the three Arsenal players, there's no way Birmingham City would have gone up last season."
Rangers' growing links with their traditional enemy have drawn concern from fans, particularly since José Mourinho's call for Chelsea to field a 'B' team in the Football League last season.
But Paladini insists QPR's relationship with their neighbours makes good financial sense - and points to the sale of teenager Dean Parrett as proof that Chelsea have no say in affairs at Loftus Road.
The England under-18 midfielder was wanted by Chelsea, but instead moved to Tottenham in January in a deal that could eventually earn the Rs up to £2m.
"Chelsea offered us £500,000 for Parrett and we didn't take it because it wasn't a good deal," said Paladini.
"I know the fans don't like Chelsea, but you've got to look at the business position. For instance, it used to cost us £50,000 to film every training session or match.
"Chelsea did all that themselves last season because they wanted to know everything about Mancienne and Smith. So that's a free service for QPR.
"Also we can send our players to Chelsea to train any time we want, or send our coaching staff there to look at what they've got." (Kilburn Times)
Reporting on John Gregory's comments at the June 15, AGM, Rivals'Clive Whittingham reported "Bringing Smith and Mancienne back for next season was being complicated by Chelsea losing five or more players to the African nations Cup in January." Rivals
QPR1st's Tracy Stent's report on Gregory's comments at the AGM re Mancienne: "When asked about the situation regarding Mancienne and Smith, John said that we may be aware but that the African nations cup takes place in January 2008 and that as a result of this, Chelsea are going to lose some of their players whilst they take part in this tournament. Therefore it is highly unlikely we would be able to get the players on loan for a full 12 month/season period and said that if they were to come back then it would more than likely be for a three-month period." QPR1st
Watford Vital Football is claiming that Chelsea's Mancienne is set to join Watford on season loan. Mancienne to Watford(Previously there have been reports of Mancienne going to other clubs.]
Watford Vital Football - Chelsea youngster tipped to join
Chelsea starlet Michael Mancienne is set to agree a season long loan deal with Watford. Jose Mourinho has made it clear that the highly rated centre back needs to gain some first team experience and believes a spell at Vicarage Road will be of great benefit to the youngster, who spent time at QPR last season. Watford are believed to have gazumped both West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City in their pursuit of the youngster.
Aidy Boothroyd has been monitoring the Manicenne situation for some time, yet hhad to bide his time until Jose managed to bring in a defender - which turned out to be Bolton stalwart Tal Ben Haim. The opportunity is now there and all that remains is for the Stamford Bridge outfit and the Hornets to come to a satisfactory agreement. West London sources have revealed Chelsea want to include a 24 hour recall clause in case they suffer a repeat of the injury nightmare that blighted their 2006/07 campaign. Watford are not so keen on this and are currently trying to persuade Peter Kenyon to 'stick the clause where the sun don`t shine'.
Mancienne, who has been likened to Paulo Maldini in the past is said to be keen on the move so lets hope the Hornets can move as fast as Linford Christie ( 1992 ) in order to seal the deal. Watford
From a Couple of Weeks Ago: [Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times June 5, 2007 -Loan Rangers to return
Michael Mancienne will rejoin QPR on loan next season
QPR have lined up a deal to bring back Chelsea pair Jimmy Smith and Michael Mancienne on six-month loans next season.
The duo will spend pre-season training with the Premiership side and move back to Loftus Road until the end of the year, when Chelsea may recall them as cover during the African Nations' Cup.
And, should the Blues decide to sell either Smith or Mancienne in the meantime, Rangers would gain 10 per cent of the transfer fee under the terms of the agreement.
"The agreement with Chelsea is very good for QPR and it works in our favour financially," declared Rs chairman Gianni Paladini.
"Suppose someone buys Mancienne for £5m, we get £500,000 out of that and that applies to any player they sell who's with us, we get 10 per cent.
"The response from Chelsea is that they're happy to give us both of them for six months. That can only benefit QPR - without the three Arsenal players, there's no way Birmingham City would have gone up last season."
Rangers' growing links with their traditional enemy have drawn concern from fans, particularly since José Mourinho's call for Chelsea to field a 'B' team in the Football League last season.
But Paladini insists QPR's relationship with their neighbours makes good financial sense - and points to the sale of teenager Dean Parrett as proof that Chelsea have no say in affairs at Loftus Road.
The England under-18 midfielder was wanted by Chelsea, but instead moved to Tottenham in January in a deal that could eventually earn the Rs up to £2m.
"Chelsea offered us £500,000 for Parrett and we didn't take it because it wasn't a good deal," said Paladini.
"I know the fans don't like Chelsea, but you've got to look at the business position. For instance, it used to cost us £50,000 to film every training session or match.
"Chelsea did all that themselves last season because they wanted to know everything about Mancienne and Smith. So that's a free service for QPR.
"Also we can send our players to Chelsea to train any time we want, or send our coaching staff there to look at what they've got." (Kilburn Times)
Reporting on John Gregory's comments at the June 15, AGM, Rivals'Clive Whittingham reported "Bringing Smith and Mancienne back for next season was being complicated by Chelsea losing five or more players to the African nations Cup in January." Rivals
QPR1st's Tracy Stent's report on Gregory's comments at the AGM re Mancienne: "When asked about the situation regarding Mancienne and Smith, John said that we may be aware but that the African nations cup takes place in January 2008 and that as a result of this, Chelsea are going to lose some of their players whilst they take part in this tournament. Therefore it is highly unlikely we would be able to get the players on loan for a full 12 month/season period and said that if they were to come back then it would more than likely be for a three-month period." QPR1st
"Nostalgia:" Recalling Some of the Things Said in 2006
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With the post-season drawing to a close; and the pre-season beginning coming ever closer as the players report back for training...Another look back at some of the things said in 2006:
QPR Report "Quotes of the Year 2006"
SEE ALSO:
QPR's 2006
Season in Review - December 2006
2006-2007 Season in Review - November 2006
2006-2007 Season in Review - October 2006
2006-2007 Season in Review - September 2007
2006-07 Season in Review - August 2007
2006-2007 Season in Review: #4 - Close Season Ends; Shittu Leaves; Paladini Speaks
2006-2007 Season in Review #3 - July 2006: Italy, Dunga, MK Dons, Ward, Shittu, Holloway, Suits
2006-2007 Season in Review #2 - June 2006: The Pre-Season
2006-2007 Season in Review #1 - May 2006
Arrivals and Departures in 2006
With the post-season drawing to a close; and the pre-season beginning coming ever closer as the players report back for training...Another look back at some of the things said in 2006:
QPR Report "Quotes of the Year 2006"
SEE ALSO:
QPR's 2006
Season in Review - December 2006
2006-2007 Season in Review - November 2006
2006-2007 Season in Review - October 2006
2006-2007 Season in Review - September 2007
2006-07 Season in Review - August 2007
2006-2007 Season in Review: #4 - Close Season Ends; Shittu Leaves; Paladini Speaks
2006-2007 Season in Review #3 - July 2006: Italy, Dunga, MK Dons, Ward, Shittu, Holloway, Suits
2006-2007 Season in Review #2 - June 2006: The Pre-Season
2006-2007 Season in Review #1 - May 2006
Arrivals and Departures in 2006
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Ex-QPR News Update: Forbes, Dichio, Wright
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Terrel Forbes...Danny Dichio...Chris Wright...Alan McDonald...Clarke Carlisle
Western Daily Press - June 22: "...Slade will discuss a contract extension with defender Terrell Forbes next week, with the club insisting the player has not handed in a transfer request..." Western Daily Press
Western Daily Press - NO FORBES TRANSFER REQUEST, SAY YEOVIL - BY JAMES MCNAMARA 15 June 2007
Yeovil Town chairman John Fry has dismissed a claim that defender Terrell Forbes has handed in a transfer request.
A report yesterday suggested the defender had requested a move because he was unhappy with the financial terms of a potential contract extension.
However, Fry revealed the club had yet to table a firm offer and suggested quotes attributed to Forbes were actually given to the media by an associate of the defender's agent.
Forbes, who is on holiday in Turkey, is expected to hold talks with Yeovil next week about an improved deal.
And Fry said: "As far as the club is concerned there has been no request for a transfer.
"From what we understand, the player's agent is responsible for putting the message out. If the player has got a complaint or is not in agreement with the club he should be talking to the manager and not the press.
"As we understand it there may be a problem with his current contract in terms of money.
"We are not aware of that because no one has approached Russell (Slade, manager) or myself about that.
"We don't want to fall out with the player, but we think the agent is bang out of order and the way that he has gone about this is unacceptable procedure..."" Western Daily Press
Danny Dichio played, but didn't score as his Toronto FC lost 0-3 to New England Revolution. Report
Chris Wright...Sunday Telegraph "Chrysalis Group to sell radio stations
Chrysalis Group is finalising the £170m sale of its radio stations Heart, Galaxy and LBC to financier Michael Tabor. An announcement could come tomorrow.
Chief executive Richard Huntingford is expected to announce his resignation, after a handover period. He will receive a bonus estimated at around £1.5m for completing the sale. Chairman Chris Wright will stay on to lead the rump of the company, a music publishing business valued at £105m . Sunday Telegraph
And for ex-QPR's Alan McDonald, it's Manchester United, live on Sky
Reported various places: Burnley's Cotterill denies Burnley are interested in ex-QPR's Clarke Carlisle for 300,000 pounds..."Meanwhile, Burnley have dismissed reports linking them with Watford defender Clarke Carlisle." Report
Terrel Forbes...Danny Dichio...Chris Wright...Alan McDonald...Clarke Carlisle
Western Daily Press - June 22: "...Slade will discuss a contract extension with defender Terrell Forbes next week, with the club insisting the player has not handed in a transfer request..." Western Daily Press
Western Daily Press - NO FORBES TRANSFER REQUEST, SAY YEOVIL - BY JAMES MCNAMARA 15 June 2007
Yeovil Town chairman John Fry has dismissed a claim that defender Terrell Forbes has handed in a transfer request.
A report yesterday suggested the defender had requested a move because he was unhappy with the financial terms of a potential contract extension.
However, Fry revealed the club had yet to table a firm offer and suggested quotes attributed to Forbes were actually given to the media by an associate of the defender's agent.
Forbes, who is on holiday in Turkey, is expected to hold talks with Yeovil next week about an improved deal.
And Fry said: "As far as the club is concerned there has been no request for a transfer.
"From what we understand, the player's agent is responsible for putting the message out. If the player has got a complaint or is not in agreement with the club he should be talking to the manager and not the press.
"As we understand it there may be a problem with his current contract in terms of money.
"We are not aware of that because no one has approached Russell (Slade, manager) or myself about that.
"We don't want to fall out with the player, but we think the agent is bang out of order and the way that he has gone about this is unacceptable procedure..."" Western Daily Press
Danny Dichio played, but didn't score as his Toronto FC lost 0-3 to New England Revolution. Report
Chris Wright...Sunday Telegraph "Chrysalis Group to sell radio stations
Chrysalis Group is finalising the £170m sale of its radio stations Heart, Galaxy and LBC to financier Michael Tabor. An announcement could come tomorrow.
Chief executive Richard Huntingford is expected to announce his resignation, after a handover period. He will receive a bonus estimated at around £1.5m for completing the sale. Chairman Chris Wright will stay on to lead the rump of the company, a music publishing business valued at £105m . Sunday Telegraph
And for ex-QPR's Alan McDonald, it's Manchester United, live on Sky
Reported various places: Burnley's Cotterill denies Burnley are interested in ex-QPR's Clarke Carlisle for 300,000 pounds..."Meanwhile, Burnley have dismissed reports linking them with Watford defender Clarke Carlisle." Report
QPR Supposedly Unhappy that China Not Punished by FIFA
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Sunday Mirror - ROW ISN'T BRAWL OVER
By Alistair Grant 24/06/2007
QPR have demanded FIFA tell them why China have not been fined for starting the kung-fu brawl which landed Rangers a £20,000 FA rap on Friday.
The Loftus Road club are angry the Chinese Olympic team seem to have escaped unpunished for the 30-man ruck on February 7 - despite throwing the first punch.
Disciplinary expert Graham Bean, who handled QPR's case, said: "We've been advised FIFA have been told the Chinese FA are taking action. But no indication has been given about what has happened to the Chinese team, who started all of this." Sunday Mirror
Sunday Mirror - ROW ISN'T BRAWL OVER
By Alistair Grant 24/06/2007
QPR have demanded FIFA tell them why China have not been fined for starting the kung-fu brawl which landed Rangers a £20,000 FA rap on Friday.
The Loftus Road club are angry the Chinese Olympic team seem to have escaped unpunished for the 30-man ruck on February 7 - despite throwing the first punch.
Disciplinary expert Graham Bean, who handled QPR's case, said: "We've been advised FIFA have been told the Chinese FA are taking action. But no indication has been given about what has happened to the Chinese team, who started all of this." Sunday Mirror
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Chairman Paladini Talking About Selling - But Not just to Anyone - and Bill Power Possibly Reinvesting
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Chairman Gianni Paladini talking about being willing to sell and of the possibility that Bill Power might reinvest in QPR.
Dave McIntyre, The Gazette - "We Just Don’t Have Enough Cash To Take QPR Forward " Article posted on the IndependentRs Site and can be read at link below: Dave McIntyre Article at Independent Rs Site
UPDATED: Now online at Ealing Gazette
We just don't have enough cash to take QPR forward
Jun 25 2007
CHAIRMAN Gianni Paladini insists QPR will not be bought on the cheap despite the club's Italian owners being willing to relinquish control.
Paladini last week declared that he and major shareholder Antonio Caliendo would seek only the money they paid for their shares when they acquired stakes in the club.
That would mean around £650,000 would be required to purchase Paladini's shareholding and around £4million to take overall control of the club.
But Paladini has warned that simply writing out a cheque for those amounts will not be enough.
He said: "The offer is there for anyone who can take the club forward. I will only want what I paid for my shares.
CHAIRMAN Gianni Paladini insists QPR will not be bought on the cheap despite the club's Italian owners being willing to relinquish control.
Paladini last week declared that he and major shareholder Antonio Caliendo would seek only the money they paid for their shares when they acquired stakes in the club.
That would mean around £650,000 would be required to purchase Paladini's shareholding and around £4million to take overall control of the club.
But Paladini has warned that simply writing out a cheque for those amounts will not be enough.
He said: "The offer is there for anyone who can take the club forward. I will only want what I paid for my shares.
"But it has to be on condition that they have serious money to invest and can show they can move QPR to the next level.
"We're a club that can compete in the Championship and if someone can take QPR further than that, then there is no way we would stand in their way.
"I would leave tomorrow for the price I paid for my shares if that kind of person wanted the club. I would want any other money they had to go into QPR."
Paladini added: "The vultures are circling. That always happens with QPR. But we're not saying we will sell to anyone. It has to be the right people.
"We're committed to the club, we just realise we don't have the money to take it further and want others to come in and either help us or take over the club."
A number of parties have expressed an interest including an Israeli group fronted by former Tottenham and Liverpool striker Ronnie Rosenthal, which has failed to prove it has sufficient funds.
And a consortium has this week been discussing approaching the club with an offer.
But at this stage the most likely addition to the Rangers board is Bill Power - the former chairman who was booted out by Paladini and Caliendo in 2005 following a bitter battle for control.
Power has invested in Swindon since his public fall-out with Paladini and has been involved in a takeover bid for the Wilt-shire club.
But the pair have recently rebuilt bridges and Paladini believes Power may return.
"The door is open for Bill," said Paladini.
"I don't think he wants to buy the club but the opportunity is there, if he wants it, to come back and work with me."
Bar an angry exchange with disenchanted club president Harold Winton and a couple of questions about ongoing financial concerns, Paladini and other directors were given a fairly easy ride at last week's annual general meeting of shareholders.
It was confirmed that Rangers made a loss of £3.3million in 2006 - up from £2.6m the previous year. A loss of around £2.6m for 2007 is predicted. Ealing Gazette
Chairman Gianni Paladini talking about being willing to sell and of the possibility that Bill Power might reinvest in QPR.
Dave McIntyre, The Gazette - "We Just Don’t Have Enough Cash To Take QPR Forward " Article posted on the IndependentRs Site and can be read at link below: Dave McIntyre Article at Independent Rs Site
UPDATED: Now online at Ealing Gazette
We just don't have enough cash to take QPR forward
Jun 25 2007
CHAIRMAN Gianni Paladini insists QPR will not be bought on the cheap despite the club's Italian owners being willing to relinquish control.
Paladini last week declared that he and major shareholder Antonio Caliendo would seek only the money they paid for their shares when they acquired stakes in the club.
That would mean around £650,000 would be required to purchase Paladini's shareholding and around £4million to take overall control of the club.
But Paladini has warned that simply writing out a cheque for those amounts will not be enough.
He said: "The offer is there for anyone who can take the club forward. I will only want what I paid for my shares.
CHAIRMAN Gianni Paladini insists QPR will not be bought on the cheap despite the club's Italian owners being willing to relinquish control.
Paladini last week declared that he and major shareholder Antonio Caliendo would seek only the money they paid for their shares when they acquired stakes in the club.
That would mean around £650,000 would be required to purchase Paladini's shareholding and around £4million to take overall control of the club.
But Paladini has warned that simply writing out a cheque for those amounts will not be enough.
He said: "The offer is there for anyone who can take the club forward. I will only want what I paid for my shares.
"But it has to be on condition that they have serious money to invest and can show they can move QPR to the next level.
"We're a club that can compete in the Championship and if someone can take QPR further than that, then there is no way we would stand in their way.
"I would leave tomorrow for the price I paid for my shares if that kind of person wanted the club. I would want any other money they had to go into QPR."
Paladini added: "The vultures are circling. That always happens with QPR. But we're not saying we will sell to anyone. It has to be the right people.
"We're committed to the club, we just realise we don't have the money to take it further and want others to come in and either help us or take over the club."
A number of parties have expressed an interest including an Israeli group fronted by former Tottenham and Liverpool striker Ronnie Rosenthal, which has failed to prove it has sufficient funds.
And a consortium has this week been discussing approaching the club with an offer.
But at this stage the most likely addition to the Rangers board is Bill Power - the former chairman who was booted out by Paladini and Caliendo in 2005 following a bitter battle for control.
Power has invested in Swindon since his public fall-out with Paladini and has been involved in a takeover bid for the Wilt-shire club.
But the pair have recently rebuilt bridges and Paladini believes Power may return.
"The door is open for Bill," said Paladini.
"I don't think he wants to buy the club but the opportunity is there, if he wants it, to come back and work with me."
Bar an angry exchange with disenchanted club president Harold Winton and a couple of questions about ongoing financial concerns, Paladini and other directors were given a fairly easy ride at last week's annual general meeting of shareholders.
It was confirmed that Rangers made a loss of £3.3million in 2006 - up from £2.6m the previous year. A loss of around £2.6m for 2007 is predicted. Ealing Gazette
QPR's Week in Review: AGM Reports..New Coach...China Fine...New Fan Boards
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This was the week that began with various accounts of the June 15 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and ended with the FA fining QPR over the China Brawl.
Also this week, a week after it was first reported in the press that QPR were interested, QPR appointed a new Assistant Manager: Colchester's Mick Harford. Mick Harford explained why he joined QPR
And in an unsual step, QPR publicly posted on its official site that the club had turned down two offers from Colchester for Ray Jones and one offer from Fulham for Lee Cook.
FAN SITES: Meanwhile for fans posting on messageboards, some changes and some added options:
"Battletank," the creator of the old .org (which was "THE" fan site) resurfaced with a Battletank's New QPR.org site.
Another new site QPRFANS, which is really a messageboard, also was launched.
Meanwhile the Official QPR Site adopted its new look.
A Comprehensive list of QPR Fan Messageboards was listed on the blog this week
Report of the AGMs
QPR1st's Tracy Stent Report
QPR Rivals' Clive Whittingham Report
Indypendent Rs Report
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
There were reports/mentions of Ex-QPR Chairman Bill Power, QPR and Swindon
More on Paul Parker's return to QPR and Parker talks
Mark Bircham talked about leaving QPR and about Chairman Paladini
Wycombe close to signing Doherty
ANNIVERSARIES:
One Year Anniversary since: "Not Guilty" Verdicts from "The Trial"
How Much Change at QPR From a Year Ago
Three Years Ago: Pre-Paladini Era Drew to a Close: CEO David Davies announced his departure, followed a few days later by QPR Chairman Nick Blackburn resigning
Forty Years: Remembering the Magic of the 1967-1968 Season
2007-2008 FA Cup Dates: Not yet on QPR's Official sites but the dates for the FA Cup are now known: 3rd Round - January 5th.....4th Round - January 26th ....5th Round - February 16th [Currently scheduled for Barnsley (A) Quarter Final - March 8th[Currently scheduled for Sheffield Wednesday (A)].....Semi-Finals - April 5th[Currently, scheduled for Preston (H)....FA Cup Final: May 17
The PFA's Pick Your Team of the Century and your QPR Representative
Non-QPR specific "Free The Fixtures" Campaign: A newly-created website by fans calling for the right for fans to publish team fixtures, without being charged. ..."Free The Fixtures
Ex-QPR:
Ian Holloway said would be talking with KevinGallen
Gary Waddock spoke about Aldershot and QPR
In the MLS (Major League Soccer), Steve Morrow's FC Dallas were crushed 4-0 by Danny Dichio's (and just maybe one day Marc Bircham's!) Toronto: 4-0. Dichio scored, made a goal and limped off!
Ex-QPR's Danny Shittu Helps Nigeria Towards African Nations Cup Eagles land in Ghana 2008 - …Beat Niger 3–1
This was the week that began with various accounts of the June 15 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and ended with the FA fining QPR over the China Brawl.
Also this week, a week after it was first reported in the press that QPR were interested, QPR appointed a new Assistant Manager: Colchester's Mick Harford. Mick Harford explained why he joined QPR
And in an unsual step, QPR publicly posted on its official site that the club had turned down two offers from Colchester for Ray Jones and one offer from Fulham for Lee Cook.
FAN SITES: Meanwhile for fans posting on messageboards, some changes and some added options:
"Battletank," the creator of the old .org (which was "THE" fan site) resurfaced with a Battletank's New QPR.org site.
Another new site QPRFANS, which is really a messageboard, also was launched.
Meanwhile the Official QPR Site adopted its new look.
A Comprehensive list of QPR Fan Messageboards was listed on the blog this week
Report of the AGMs
QPR1st's Tracy Stent Report
QPR Rivals' Clive Whittingham Report
Indypendent Rs Report
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
There were reports/mentions of Ex-QPR Chairman Bill Power, QPR and Swindon
More on Paul Parker's return to QPR and Parker talks
Mark Bircham talked about leaving QPR and about Chairman Paladini
Wycombe close to signing Doherty
ANNIVERSARIES:
One Year Anniversary since: "Not Guilty" Verdicts from "The Trial"
How Much Change at QPR From a Year Ago
Three Years Ago: Pre-Paladini Era Drew to a Close: CEO David Davies announced his departure, followed a few days later by QPR Chairman Nick Blackburn resigning
Forty Years: Remembering the Magic of the 1967-1968 Season
2007-2008 FA Cup Dates: Not yet on QPR's Official sites but the dates for the FA Cup are now known: 3rd Round - January 5th.....4th Round - January 26th ....5th Round - February 16th [Currently scheduled for Barnsley (A) Quarter Final - March 8th[Currently scheduled for Sheffield Wednesday (A)].....Semi-Finals - April 5th[Currently, scheduled for Preston (H)....FA Cup Final: May 17
The PFA's Pick Your Team of the Century and your QPR Representative
Non-QPR specific "Free The Fixtures" Campaign: A newly-created website by fans calling for the right for fans to publish team fixtures, without being charged. ..."Free The Fixtures
Ex-QPR:
Ian Holloway said would be talking with KevinGallen
Gary Waddock spoke about Aldershot and QPR
In the MLS (Major League Soccer), Steve Morrow's FC Dallas were crushed 4-0 by Danny Dichio's (and just maybe one day Marc Bircham's!) Toronto: 4-0. Dichio scored, made a goal and limped off!
Ex-QPR's Danny Shittu Helps Nigeria Towards African Nations Cup Eagles land in Ghana 2008 - …Beat Niger 3–1
Friday, June 22, 2007
Verdict - FA's Punishment of QPR For "China Brawl"
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The FA Met today and their verdict was....:
FA News - QPR hearing result
Friday, 22 June 2007.
At a Disciplinary Commission hearing today, Queens Park Rangers FC were fined £40,000 for their involvement in a brawl with the Chinese U22 team on 9 February, £20,000 of which is suspended until 31 May 2008. It can be reactivated in full or in part in the event of a proved similar offence.
The club admitted a charge of failing to ensure that its players and/or officials conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from violent and/or threatening and/or provocative behaviour.
A charge of violent conduct against assistant coach Richard Hill was found proved. He has been suspended from all football and football management until 30 September 2007. He has 14 days to appeal. FA
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - CLUB FINE
Fri 22 Jun 2007
At a Disciplinary Commission hearing today (Friday), Queens Park Rangers FC were fined £40,000 for their involvement in a brawl with the Chinese Olympic team on February 9th, £20,000 of which is suspended until May 31st 2008. It can be reactivated in full or in part in the event of a proved similar offence.
The Club admitted a charge of failing to ensure that its players and / or officials conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from violent and / or threatening and / or provocative behaviour.
A charge of violent conduct against Assistant Coach Richard Hill was found proved. He has been suspended from all football and football management until September 30th 2007. He has 14 days to appeal.
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR
See Also QPR Report - China
The FA Met today and their verdict was....:
FA News - QPR hearing result
Friday, 22 June 2007.
At a Disciplinary Commission hearing today, Queens Park Rangers FC were fined £40,000 for their involvement in a brawl with the Chinese U22 team on 9 February, £20,000 of which is suspended until 31 May 2008. It can be reactivated in full or in part in the event of a proved similar offence.
The club admitted a charge of failing to ensure that its players and/or officials conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from violent and/or threatening and/or provocative behaviour.
A charge of violent conduct against assistant coach Richard Hill was found proved. He has been suspended from all football and football management until 30 September 2007. He has 14 days to appeal. FA
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - CLUB FINE
Fri 22 Jun 2007
At a Disciplinary Commission hearing today (Friday), Queens Park Rangers FC were fined £40,000 for their involvement in a brawl with the Chinese Olympic team on February 9th, £20,000 of which is suspended until May 31st 2008. It can be reactivated in full or in part in the event of a proved similar offence.
The Club admitted a charge of failing to ensure that its players and / or officials conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from violent and / or threatening and / or provocative behaviour.
A charge of violent conduct against Assistant Coach Richard Hill was found proved. He has been suspended from all football and football management until September 30th 2007. He has 14 days to appeal.
The Club will be making no further comment at this stage. QPR
See Also QPR Report - China
PFA's "Pick Your Team of the Century" - QPR Players "Available"
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Players Football Association (PFA) Site
Welcome to PFA Legends -Pick your Team of the Century!
The Professional Footballers' Association is 100 years young this year and, as part of our centenary celebrations, we are inviting the readers of givemefootball - the association's official website - the chance to vote for, and select...'The Greatest Team of All Time'.
The PFA is running one of the biggest-ever voting polls to find the Team of the Century, and, ultimately, the greatest player to have graced our Football Leagues over the last 100 years....You have until 23 August 2007 to register your vote PFA Legends
"Select from these players Learn about the legends
We've got the lowdown on all the legendary players of the last 100 years, to help you choose your perfect team of the century. 1907 to 1976 1977 to 1996 1997 to 2007
PFA List of Players
Unless I've missed it, among the players you can choose from: There is NO Rodney Marsh; NO Stan Bowles; No Gerry Francis. However included in the list of players, one can choose from: Les Ferdinand
Frank Mclintock , Clive Allen, Paul Parker Phil Parkes, Ray Wilkins, Trevor Francis Gordon Hill, Steve Hodge,Chris Woods.
Complete List of Players
And a seperate PFA competition
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - EVERY VOTE COUNTS
Fri 22 Jun 2007
As part of its Centenary Year, The Professional Footballers Association is putting together a list of the top 100 players who have played professional football over the last 100 years.
One player will be selected from each of the 100 professional clubs to have played in the Football League throughout the last 100 years.
To help fans vote, the PFA - together with the football clubs and a panel of sports journalists - have put together a top ten list for each club.
Your job is to vote for your favourite player from the list.
The winning player will go into the PFA Centenary Hall of Fame.
Remember we're looking for the greatest player to have played for Queens Park Rangers over the last 100 years - so you may have to dig out your history books!
The short-list is as follows:
Clive Allen
Les Allen
Stan Bowles
Les Ferdinand
Gerry Francis
Kevin Gallen
Mark Lazarus
Rodney Marsh
Phil Parkes
Trevor Sinclair
To vote, e-mail the name of your player to pfa@arenainternational.co.uk and please ensure the subject header is titled NUMBER 1 QPR LEGEND.
The voting lines close on Friday 29th June 2007. QPR
Players Football Association (PFA) Site
Welcome to PFA Legends -Pick your Team of the Century!
The Professional Footballers' Association is 100 years young this year and, as part of our centenary celebrations, we are inviting the readers of givemefootball - the association's official website - the chance to vote for, and select...'The Greatest Team of All Time'.
The PFA is running one of the biggest-ever voting polls to find the Team of the Century, and, ultimately, the greatest player to have graced our Football Leagues over the last 100 years....You have until 23 August 2007 to register your vote PFA Legends
"Select from these players Learn about the legends
We've got the lowdown on all the legendary players of the last 100 years, to help you choose your perfect team of the century. 1907 to 1976 1977 to 1996 1997 to 2007
PFA List of Players
Unless I've missed it, among the players you can choose from: There is NO Rodney Marsh; NO Stan Bowles; No Gerry Francis. However included in the list of players, one can choose from: Les Ferdinand
Frank Mclintock , Clive Allen, Paul Parker Phil Parkes, Ray Wilkins, Trevor Francis Gordon Hill, Steve Hodge,Chris Woods.
Complete List of Players
And a seperate PFA competition
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - EVERY VOTE COUNTS
Fri 22 Jun 2007
As part of its Centenary Year, The Professional Footballers Association is putting together a list of the top 100 players who have played professional football over the last 100 years.
One player will be selected from each of the 100 professional clubs to have played in the Football League throughout the last 100 years.
To help fans vote, the PFA - together with the football clubs and a panel of sports journalists - have put together a top ten list for each club.
Your job is to vote for your favourite player from the list.
The winning player will go into the PFA Centenary Hall of Fame.
Remember we're looking for the greatest player to have played for Queens Park Rangers over the last 100 years - so you may have to dig out your history books!
The short-list is as follows:
Clive Allen
Les Allen
Stan Bowles
Les Ferdinand
Gerry Francis
Kevin Gallen
Mark Lazarus
Rodney Marsh
Phil Parkes
Trevor Sinclair
To vote, e-mail the name of your player to pfa@arenainternational.co.uk and please ensure the subject header is titled NUMBER 1 QPR LEGEND.
The voting lines close on Friday 29th June 2007. QPR
QPR's Disciplinary Hearing Today Over China Brawl
-
Reported in Friday's Telegraph and Times
Telegraph - Fight blamed on Chinese By Alistair Grant
QPR will try to avoid a six-figure fine at a Football Association 'Great Brawl of China' disciplinary hearing today - by insisting their Chinese opponents started the 30-man fight.
The incident on Feb 7, when Rangers' players and assistant manager Richard Hill traded blows with the Chinese Olympic team, halted a 'friendly' and left China's Zheng Tao with a broken jaw.
FA disciplinary officials will finally hear the case today after it was delayed due to Hill's arrest over the incident. He was later told he would not face criminal charges.
QPR have admitted a charge of failing to ensure their players refrained from violent behaviour but will claim today that they were provoked, hoping to be let off with a small fine rather than a six-figure financial penalty or even a points deduction.
Graham Bean, the disciplinary expert and former FA compliance officer heading QPR's defence, said: "There was provocation and the emphasis will be on the conduct of the Chinese people. The video and pictures show best what it was all about and the extraordinary circumstances involved are the basis of QPR's mitigation."
Hill, whose case will also be heard today, denies a charge of violent conduct despite being photographed punching China's Jiang Ning in the face. Telegraph
The Times - QPR await ruling on fight with China
Queens Park Rangers will try to avoid a six-figure fine at the FA’s “Great Brawl of China” disciplinary hearing today by insisting that their Chinese opponents started the infamous 30-man fight on February 7, when QPR players and their assistant manager, Richard Hill, traded blows with the China Olympic team. The “friendly”, which left Zheng Tao, of China, with a broken jaw, was soon halted.
FA disciplinary officials will finally hear the case today after it was delayed because of Hill’s arrest over the brawl. He was later told he would not face criminal charges.
QPR have admitted a charge of failing to ensure that their players refrained from violent behaviour but will claim today that they were provoked, hoping to be let off with a small fine rather than a large financial penalty or even a points deduction.
The Times
Also: QPR REPORT Background and update "CHINA BRAWL UPDATE"
Reported in Friday's Telegraph and Times
Telegraph - Fight blamed on Chinese By Alistair Grant
QPR will try to avoid a six-figure fine at a Football Association 'Great Brawl of China' disciplinary hearing today - by insisting their Chinese opponents started the 30-man fight.
The incident on Feb 7, when Rangers' players and assistant manager Richard Hill traded blows with the Chinese Olympic team, halted a 'friendly' and left China's Zheng Tao with a broken jaw.
FA disciplinary officials will finally hear the case today after it was delayed due to Hill's arrest over the incident. He was later told he would not face criminal charges.
QPR have admitted a charge of failing to ensure their players refrained from violent behaviour but will claim today that they were provoked, hoping to be let off with a small fine rather than a six-figure financial penalty or even a points deduction.
Graham Bean, the disciplinary expert and former FA compliance officer heading QPR's defence, said: "There was provocation and the emphasis will be on the conduct of the Chinese people. The video and pictures show best what it was all about and the extraordinary circumstances involved are the basis of QPR's mitigation."
Hill, whose case will also be heard today, denies a charge of violent conduct despite being photographed punching China's Jiang Ning in the face. Telegraph
The Times - QPR await ruling on fight with China
Queens Park Rangers will try to avoid a six-figure fine at the FA’s “Great Brawl of China” disciplinary hearing today by insisting that their Chinese opponents started the infamous 30-man fight on February 7, when QPR players and their assistant manager, Richard Hill, traded blows with the China Olympic team. The “friendly”, which left Zheng Tao, of China, with a broken jaw, was soon halted.
FA disciplinary officials will finally hear the case today after it was delayed because of Hill’s arrest over the brawl. He was later told he would not face criminal charges.
QPR have admitted a charge of failing to ensure that their players refrained from violent behaviour but will claim today that they were provoked, hoping to be let off with a small fine rather than a large financial penalty or even a points deduction.
The Times
Also: QPR REPORT Background and update "CHINA BRAWL UPDATE"
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Harford Explains Why He Joined QPR
-
MICK HARFORD EXPLAINS WHY HE JOINED QPR
QPR Official Site
"I was very impressed by what John had to say when I met him. I'm very happy to be here and am now looking forward to getting started,'' he said.
"It was a difficult decision to leave Colchester, but this was an opportunity I just couldn't turn down.''...his is a fantastic, well-established Club and the Manager is looking for an improvement on last season. I'm sure we'll do that.
"We'll take one game at a time, but every match we approach we will be looking to win, with good, attacking football." QPR
COLCHESTER OFFICIAL SITE -
"It is a real wrench to be leaving because I have been made to feel very welcome by everybody at the club, from the moment I came to Layer Road." ...QPR contacted Colchester and enquired about my circumstances and whether they could speak to me. I have a great relationship with George(Geraint Williams) and he told me of their interest."
"It was a massive decision for me even to ask for permission to talk to John Gregory and QPR and one that wasn't taken lightly," Mick continued, "but the main reason I took the job was the reduction in miles I had to drive to and from training."
Mick knew the 170 mile round trip was taking its toll on his suspect back and explained that his fears for his health were confirmed after having an operation on his back earlier this week.
"It was a minor operation to clear a couple of problems up but the surgeon said that the thirty odd hours a week I was behind the wheel were a major factor in the deterioration of the back."
"While I'm not at death's door just yet, my health is obviously very important to me and finding a solution to those back problems was something that I have thought about for a good while now."
Mick then told the official website that U's Chief Executive, Marie Partner, had discussed ways of reducing the travelling by living in Colchester, either in rented accomodation or in a hotel, but he admitted that he was keen to stay living where he was.
"We did discuss spending more time in Colchester but I must admit that I am very settled where I am, with a lot of friends and family nearby, and I wanted to remain there. I was also offered a very attractive new contract to continue as George's assistant but when your health is at risk, money isn't really a consideration."
Mick then heaped praise on the U's in general by saying,"I can't thank Colchester United enough for giving me the chance to get back in the game and I have thoroughly enjoyed the last year at the club."
"I have learnt a lot from George and the players and feel privileged to have been a part of their first season in the Championship and one of the most successful in their history. It hasn't just been the management team that have helped me though, Marie and her office staff have all helped me a great deal over the past year."
..."." Colchester
BBC "Harford said the commute from his Hertfordshire home to north Essex played a big part in his decision to become John Gregory's number two. "It is a real wrench to leave but one of the main reasons is my health," the former Luton and Chelsea striker said."I had an operation to clear-up a couple of problems and I was told the 170 mile round-trip wasn't helping."
Harford added: "In fact the 30-odd hours I'm spending behind the wheel are a major factor in the deterioration in my back. "I was offered a very attractive new contract to stay and we had talked about my spending more time in Colchester but I'm very settled where I live with plenty of friends and family." . BBC
MICK HARFORD EXPLAINS WHY HE JOINED QPR
QPR Official Site
"I was very impressed by what John had to say when I met him. I'm very happy to be here and am now looking forward to getting started,'' he said.
"It was a difficult decision to leave Colchester, but this was an opportunity I just couldn't turn down.''...his is a fantastic, well-established Club and the Manager is looking for an improvement on last season. I'm sure we'll do that.
"We'll take one game at a time, but every match we approach we will be looking to win, with good, attacking football." QPR
COLCHESTER OFFICIAL SITE -
"It is a real wrench to be leaving because I have been made to feel very welcome by everybody at the club, from the moment I came to Layer Road." ...QPR contacted Colchester and enquired about my circumstances and whether they could speak to me. I have a great relationship with George(Geraint Williams) and he told me of their interest."
"It was a massive decision for me even to ask for permission to talk to John Gregory and QPR and one that wasn't taken lightly," Mick continued, "but the main reason I took the job was the reduction in miles I had to drive to and from training."
Mick knew the 170 mile round trip was taking its toll on his suspect back and explained that his fears for his health were confirmed after having an operation on his back earlier this week.
"It was a minor operation to clear a couple of problems up but the surgeon said that the thirty odd hours a week I was behind the wheel were a major factor in the deterioration of the back."
"While I'm not at death's door just yet, my health is obviously very important to me and finding a solution to those back problems was something that I have thought about for a good while now."
Mick then told the official website that U's Chief Executive, Marie Partner, had discussed ways of reducing the travelling by living in Colchester, either in rented accomodation or in a hotel, but he admitted that he was keen to stay living where he was.
"We did discuss spending more time in Colchester but I must admit that I am very settled where I am, with a lot of friends and family nearby, and I wanted to remain there. I was also offered a very attractive new contract to continue as George's assistant but when your health is at risk, money isn't really a consideration."
Mick then heaped praise on the U's in general by saying,"I can't thank Colchester United enough for giving me the chance to get back in the game and I have thoroughly enjoyed the last year at the club."
"I have learnt a lot from George and the players and feel privileged to have been a part of their first season in the Championship and one of the most successful in their history. It hasn't just been the management team that have helped me though, Marie and her office staff have all helped me a great deal over the past year."
..."." Colchester
BBC "Harford said the commute from his Hertfordshire home to north Essex played a big part in his decision to become John Gregory's number two. "It is a real wrench to leave but one of the main reasons is my health," the former Luton and Chelsea striker said."I had an operation to clear-up a couple of problems and I was told the 170 mile round-trip wasn't helping."
Harford added: "In fact the 30-odd hours I'm spending behind the wheel are a major factor in the deterioration in my back. "I was offered a very attractive new contract to stay and we had talked about my spending more time in Colchester but I'm very settled where I live with plenty of friends and family." . BBC
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