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The half-way mark of the close season has now passed...and the long summer nightmare of no QPR football, is nearly over. In one week, the player report back for pre-season training. In just over 6 weeks, QPR's 2008-2009 promotion season kick off!
For QPR it's been a close-season of managerial departure and a new one coming in (along with departing coaches and new coaches coming in); some public fan unhappiness wih new season-ticket prices and how they were announced; stadium developments, especially in certain areas; a new crest unveiled to mixed reviews; three new signings thus far (Peter Ramage, Radek Cerny and Matteo Alberti); and lots of press and messageboard speculation about other new players.
Thus far, there are five pre-season games announced: Non-League, Stevenage; League One, Northampton; and two games in Scotland against Falkirk and Kilmarnock. Finally a match at Loftus Road against AC Chievo Verona. There are also a couple of QPR XI matches. There are rumours also of a possible match in Spain!
Other summer "events" to look forward to: The official unveiling of the new strip; new player signings; presumed player departures; the announcement of squad numbers.
Summer Schedule Thus Far:
JUNE
- June 30 - First Day of Training
JULY
- July 19, Stevenage, Away (3:00 pm).
- July 23 - Northampton Town - Away (7:45 pm Kickoff)
- July 26 - Falkirk (Away)
- July 29 - Kilmarnock (Away)
AUGUST
- August 2, AC Chievo Verona (Loftus Road) (3:00 pm Kick off)
- August 9 - Barnsley (Home) Championship Season Kicks off
- August 12 - Swindon Carling Cup (Away) - First time Seven Subs on the bench!
- August 16 - Sheffield United Away)
2008-2009 Fixtures
- League & Carling Cup Fixtures -
- Carling Cup Draw
- 2008-2009 FA Cup Dates
Pre Season: Also a couple of presumably QPR-XI Fixtures (not as of yet announced by QPR)
- July 22 - QPR XI vs Windsor and Eton - Announcement
- July 25 QPR XI vs Hayes and Yeading (Away) - Report
[June 23 Update: Two Reserve Games now announced/confirmed on QPR Official Site
Welcome to QPR REPORT - A completely unofficial and unaffiliated fan site focusing on G-d's Chosen Team, Queen's Park Rangers (QPR) FC. (Visit also QPR Report Messageboard and Follow on Twitter.) QPR Report accepts no sponsorship, advertising or financial contributions. In 2008, QPR Report was named as one of the top two blogs in the Football League
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Year Flashback: QPR Welcome Mick Harford and Reject Fulham's Lee Cook Bid...Recalling The Alan Mullery Era
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One year ago, today: June 21, 2007: QPR's Official site was talksing about rejecting a Fulham bid for Lee Cook and QPR were welcoming Mick Harford as QPR's new coach.
And 24 years ago, yesterday, QPR announced the appointment of Alan Mullery as the managerial successor to the great, Terry Venables! (Ironically, Mullery came very close to signing Mick Harford for QPR, from Birmingham, back in 1984.)
QPR Official Site - "BID REBUFFED"
QPR have rebuffed an approach from Fulham Football Club for R's winger Lee Cook.
Chairman Gianni Paladini has rejected the Cottagers' enquiry and insists the player is not for sale.
"Lee Cook is one of our prized assets and we won't be letting him go unless the price is right,'' he told www.qpr.co.uk. QPR
QPR Official Site HARFORD JOINS
The Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Mick Harford as First Team Coach.
Rangers were granted permission to speak to the 48 year-old last week and after holding talks with John Gregory over the weekend, Harford has today (Thursday) agreed to join the R's from fellow Championship rivals Colchester United.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Harford - who played for 11 different Clubs during a prestigious 21 year playing career - spoke of his delight at joining Gregory's backroom team: "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.''
Harford continued: "This 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."
Gregory was just as enthusiastic about Harford's appointment, commenting: "I'm delighted to have Mick here as part of the management team.
"I would firstly like to place on record my thanks to Colchester United's owner, Robbie Cowling, and Manager, Geraint Williams, for allowing Mick to come to us, even though his contract still had another two months to run.
"Mick played a significant role in Colchester United's success last season and I know for a fact that another of our Championship rivals were looking at his situation with regard to taking him to their Club.
"He was very much a wanted man. He is going to be a great capture for this Football Club." QPR
COLCHESTER OFFICIAL SITE - Mick Joins John Gregory
The former England international has joined Queens Park Rangers as John Gregory's number two as the London side look to improve on last season's disappointing season.
After only been here as Geraint Williams right hand man for less than a year, Mick insisted that the move was neccessary in order to reduce the travelling he was having to do to get to and from training every day.
He told CU-FC.COM, "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."
Explaining how the move came about, Mick said, "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."
Insisting that the U's would prosper in the future, Mick said, "The second season in any new league has proven in the past to be very difficult for a lot of clubs but with the current set up, I am confident that the U's will not suffer second season syndrome and will go on to have another good season in the Championship."
"As soon as last season finished, George, myself and the whole scouting team have been working tirelessly at improving the squad and I'm sure that will continue as George looks to bring in quality players to add to the quality already in the squad.
"I would like to wish everyone at Colchester United the best of luck in the future" the ex Luton forward concluded, "and hope all the fans have enjoyed the last year as much as I have done." Colchester - . BBC - QPR Report
Meanwhile, ex-QPR manager, Gary Waddock was talking about his challenge at Aldershot
- Waddock Speaks
Recalling Alan Mullery:
Twenty-Four Years ago, yesterday, Chairman Jim Gregory announced the appointment of Alan Mullery as QPR's new manager. Mullery's task wasn't aided by the fact that he was replacing the very popular and brilliant Terry Venables. Mullery wasn't even the first successor. In the summer Gordon Jago had been hired - and then axed a week later! And QPR had tried to hire David Pleat from Luton. Mullery was at QPR for six months and 17 games before being axed (after a 2-0 home win against Stoke). In his six months, saw the departure of Clive Allen and the arrival of Gary Bannister and John Byrne. It saw the great 1-1 draw at Liverpool; an amazing 5-5 comeback against Newcastle at Loftus Road; and the appalling 0-4 collapse to Partisan Belgrade after a 6-2 "home" win by QPR.
Mullery was axed. The initial replacement was hoped to have been ex-Leeds and England Manager, Don Revie. When that fell through, Frank Sibley took over for the rest of the season - and QPR stayed up by one point - Final Table
The Mullery Record - QPR 1984/1985 Results
English Division 1 (old) QPR 3-1 West Brom 25-08-1984
English Division 1 (old) Watford 1-1 QPR 28-08-1984
English Division 1 (old) Liverpool 1-1 QPR 01-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 3-0 Nottm Forest 08-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) Tottenham 5-0 QPR 15-09-1984
UEFA Cup KR Reykjavik 0-3 QPR 18-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 5-5 Newcastle 22-09-1984
English League Cup York 2-4 QPR 25-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) Southampton 1-1 QPR 29-09-1984
UEFA Cup QPR 4-0 KR Reykjavik 02-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-3 Luton 06-10-1984
English League Cup QPR 4-1 York 09-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) Ipswich 1-1 QPR 13-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-1 Coventry 20-10-1984
UEFA Cup QPR 6-2 Partizan Belgrade 24-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) Norwich 2-0 QPR 27-10-1984
English League Cup QPR 1-0 Aston Villa 30-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) Sunderland 3-0 QPR 03-11-1984
UEFA Cup Partizan Belgrade 4-0 QPR 07-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 0-0 Sheff Wed 10-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) Arsenal 1-0 QPR 17-11-1984
English League Cup Southampton 1-1 QPR 20-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-0 Aston Villa 24-11-1984
English League Cup QPR 0-0 Southampton 27-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) Leicester 4-0 QPR 01-12-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-0 Stoke 04-12-1984
Soccerbase
See also: - Mullery's website ----
Mullery Wikipedia Profile ----Alan Mullery Speaker
Also...
Flashback Two Years, today:: The first of "The Trial" ("Not Guilty") Verdicts started being returned - Verdicts.
Meanwhile, Leeds were reportedly expressing interest in Danny Shittu and Shittu's agent was answering whether Shittu wanted to leave QPR.
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
One year ago, today: June 21, 2007: QPR's Official site was talksing about rejecting a Fulham bid for Lee Cook and QPR were welcoming Mick Harford as QPR's new coach.
And 24 years ago, yesterday, QPR announced the appointment of Alan Mullery as the managerial successor to the great, Terry Venables! (Ironically, Mullery came very close to signing Mick Harford for QPR, from Birmingham, back in 1984.)
QPR Official Site - "BID REBUFFED"
QPR have rebuffed an approach from Fulham Football Club for R's winger Lee Cook.
Chairman Gianni Paladini has rejected the Cottagers' enquiry and insists the player is not for sale.
"Lee Cook is one of our prized assets and we won't be letting him go unless the price is right,'' he told www.qpr.co.uk. QPR
QPR Official Site HARFORD JOINS
The Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Mick Harford as First Team Coach.
Rangers were granted permission to speak to the 48 year-old last week and after holding talks with John Gregory over the weekend, Harford has today (Thursday) agreed to join the R's from fellow Championship rivals Colchester United.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Harford - who played for 11 different Clubs during a prestigious 21 year playing career - spoke of his delight at joining Gregory's backroom team: "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.''
Harford continued: "This 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."
Gregory was just as enthusiastic about Harford's appointment, commenting: "I'm delighted to have Mick here as part of the management team.
"I would firstly like to place on record my thanks to Colchester United's owner, Robbie Cowling, and Manager, Geraint Williams, for allowing Mick to come to us, even though his contract still had another two months to run.
"Mick played a significant role in Colchester United's success last season and I know for a fact that another of our Championship rivals were looking at his situation with regard to taking him to their Club.
"He was very much a wanted man. He is going to be a great capture for this Football Club." QPR
COLCHESTER OFFICIAL SITE - Mick Joins John Gregory
The former England international has joined Queens Park Rangers as John Gregory's number two as the London side look to improve on last season's disappointing season.
After only been here as Geraint Williams right hand man for less than a year, Mick insisted that the move was neccessary in order to reduce the travelling he was having to do to get to and from training every day.
He told CU-FC.COM, "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."
Explaining how the move came about, Mick said, "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."
Insisting that the U's would prosper in the future, Mick said, "The second season in any new league has proven in the past to be very difficult for a lot of clubs but with the current set up, I am confident that the U's will not suffer second season syndrome and will go on to have another good season in the Championship."
"As soon as last season finished, George, myself and the whole scouting team have been working tirelessly at improving the squad and I'm sure that will continue as George looks to bring in quality players to add to the quality already in the squad.
"I would like to wish everyone at Colchester United the best of luck in the future" the ex Luton forward concluded, "and hope all the fans have enjoyed the last year as much as I have done." Colchester - . BBC - QPR Report
Meanwhile, ex-QPR manager, Gary Waddock was talking about his challenge at Aldershot
- Waddock Speaks
Recalling Alan Mullery:
Twenty-Four Years ago, yesterday, Chairman Jim Gregory announced the appointment of Alan Mullery as QPR's new manager. Mullery's task wasn't aided by the fact that he was replacing the very popular and brilliant Terry Venables. Mullery wasn't even the first successor. In the summer Gordon Jago had been hired - and then axed a week later! And QPR had tried to hire David Pleat from Luton. Mullery was at QPR for six months and 17 games before being axed (after a 2-0 home win against Stoke). In his six months, saw the departure of Clive Allen and the arrival of Gary Bannister and John Byrne. It saw the great 1-1 draw at Liverpool; an amazing 5-5 comeback against Newcastle at Loftus Road; and the appalling 0-4 collapse to Partisan Belgrade after a 6-2 "home" win by QPR.
Mullery was axed. The initial replacement was hoped to have been ex-Leeds and England Manager, Don Revie. When that fell through, Frank Sibley took over for the rest of the season - and QPR stayed up by one point - Final Table
The Mullery Record - QPR 1984/1985 Results
English Division 1 (old) QPR 3-1 West Brom 25-08-1984
English Division 1 (old) Watford 1-1 QPR 28-08-1984
English Division 1 (old) Liverpool 1-1 QPR 01-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 3-0 Nottm Forest 08-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) Tottenham 5-0 QPR 15-09-1984
UEFA Cup KR Reykjavik 0-3 QPR 18-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 5-5 Newcastle 22-09-1984
English League Cup York 2-4 QPR 25-09-1984
English Division 1 (old) Southampton 1-1 QPR 29-09-1984
UEFA Cup QPR 4-0 KR Reykjavik 02-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-3 Luton 06-10-1984
English League Cup QPR 4-1 York 09-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) Ipswich 1-1 QPR 13-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-1 Coventry 20-10-1984
UEFA Cup QPR 6-2 Partizan Belgrade 24-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) Norwich 2-0 QPR 27-10-1984
English League Cup QPR 1-0 Aston Villa 30-10-1984
English Division 1 (old) Sunderland 3-0 QPR 03-11-1984
UEFA Cup Partizan Belgrade 4-0 QPR 07-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 0-0 Sheff Wed 10-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) Arsenal 1-0 QPR 17-11-1984
English League Cup Southampton 1-1 QPR 20-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-0 Aston Villa 24-11-1984
English League Cup QPR 0-0 Southampton 27-11-1984
English Division 1 (old) Leicester 4-0 QPR 01-12-1984
English Division 1 (old) QPR 2-0 Stoke 04-12-1984
Soccerbase
See also: - Mullery's website ----
Mullery Wikipedia Profile ----Alan Mullery Speaker
Also...
Flashback Two Years, today:: The first of "The Trial" ("Not Guilty") Verdicts started being returned - Verdicts.
Meanwhile, Leeds were reportedly expressing interest in Danny Shittu and Shittu's agent was answering whether Shittu wanted to leave QPR.
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
Friday, June 20, 2008
Snippet re Fiorentina's Di Carmine and Lepiller Supposedly to QPR
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As "noted" yesterday on QPR Report, today's Daily Star reports that "QPR are close to aggreeing loan deals for Fiorentina youngsters Samuel Di Carmine and Matthias Lepiller." - Teamtalk
Player Stats:
Samuel Di Carmine Stats --- Brief Soccer Profile
Matthias Lepiller --- Brief Soccer Profile
As "noted" yesterday on QPR Report, today's Daily Star reports that "QPR are close to aggreeing loan deals for Fiorentina youngsters Samuel Di Carmine and Matthias Lepiller." - Teamtalk
Player Stats:
Samuel Di Carmine Stats --- Brief Soccer Profile
Matthias Lepiller --- Brief Soccer Profile
Ex-QPR Board Snippets: Unhappiness With Dunga?...Caliendo Change?
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News of QPR's former Director, Dunga, from today's Guardian: "Fans call for Dunga's head as Brazil stutter in World Cup qualifiersNational newspapers decry coach's 'campaign of shame'"
"... A day after Wednesday's goalless draw against Argentina in a World Cup qualifier, Brazil fans are calling for coach Dunga to be fired.
After two straight defeats, Dunga, who captained Brazil when they won the World Cup in 1994, needed a convincing win to erase the painful memory of Brazil's 2-0 drubbing at the hands of Paraguay last Sunday. Instead he got a stadium full of jeering fans shouting "Goodbye Dunga", and complaining about the team's lack of creativity and lacklustre play...."
Antonio Caliendo: There were reports last week suggesting that Antonio Caliendo was claiming he was still owed money from the new owners of QPR. There were brief reports in Italy; in the Sunday Mirror and also on a June 11 posting on Caliendo's apparent blog -- "Ex-QPR Chairman Again Claims Has Yet to Be Paid"
However if you now visit the apparent Caliendo blog that posting appears to be no longer there and the latest posting is June 6. (The apparent Caliendo June 11 post CAN still be viewed at Caliendo - google cached.
Also: "Ex-QPR Holdings Chairman Antonio Caliendo - A Brief Look Back"
Elswhere: Ex-QPR Chairman, Chris Wright
Story from the end of May, 2008 re Chris Wright and Chrysalis: "Bid costs increase Chrysalis losses Chrysalis spent $1.78 million on advisers
And from Last Autumn: Still involved with Wasps, but "Chris Wright No Longer WASPS Chairman"
News of QPR's former Director, Dunga, from today's Guardian: "Fans call for Dunga's head as Brazil stutter in World Cup qualifiersNational newspapers decry coach's 'campaign of shame'"
"... A day after Wednesday's goalless draw against Argentina in a World Cup qualifier, Brazil fans are calling for coach Dunga to be fired.
After two straight defeats, Dunga, who captained Brazil when they won the World Cup in 1994, needed a convincing win to erase the painful memory of Brazil's 2-0 drubbing at the hands of Paraguay last Sunday. Instead he got a stadium full of jeering fans shouting "Goodbye Dunga", and complaining about the team's lack of creativity and lacklustre play...."
Antonio Caliendo: There were reports last week suggesting that Antonio Caliendo was claiming he was still owed money from the new owners of QPR. There were brief reports in Italy; in the Sunday Mirror and also on a June 11 posting on Caliendo's apparent blog -- "Ex-QPR Chairman Again Claims Has Yet to Be Paid"
However if you now visit the apparent Caliendo blog that posting appears to be no longer there and the latest posting is June 6. (The apparent Caliendo June 11 post CAN still be viewed at Caliendo - google cached.
Also: "Ex-QPR Holdings Chairman Antonio Caliendo - A Brief Look Back"
Elswhere: Ex-QPR Chairman, Chris Wright
Story from the end of May, 2008 re Chris Wright and Chrysalis: "Bid costs increase Chrysalis losses Chrysalis spent $1.78 million on advisers
And from Last Autumn: Still involved with Wasps, but "Chris Wright No Longer WASPS Chairman"
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Luigi De Canio Update: QPR Supposedly Pursuing Samuel Di Carmine and Mathias Lepiller
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In Italian - DE CANIO A FV, Ho suggerito i due viola al Qpr
De Canio: "I suggested two purple to QPR"
19.06.2008 17.26 di Appi . articolo letto 2644 volte 19.06.2008 17.26 to Appi. Article read 2644 times
Fonte: esclusiva firenzeviola.it Source: exclusive firenzeviola.it
And not just in terms of the big names, like Mutu, Vargas, Burdisso and companionship singer. There is also a parallel market, that of young people who have grown the purple so far under its protective wing and who now want to blossom and mature elsewhere, then riaverli a day, loads of experience playing and life, along with 'Arno.
And 'news this morning that the transfer now coming Samuel Di Carmine and Mathias Lepiller in England, the Queen's Park Rangers. Firenzeviola.. Firenzeviola.it contacted Luigi De Canio, technical until the end of the season just ended the albionici, which has revealed exclusively interesting background about it.
. Di Carmine and Lepiller to QPR. Do you think that is the appropriate environment to grow two young?
"They are a team very ambitious, aiming to win the championship next season. I am left for personal reasons, but the QPR has a beautiful project. For the growth of young people may be ideal, although much depends on how one is located and the character of the boy. doubt is a company that wants to do well in the future "
"QPR has also worked on the advice myself. The coach, in my view, is not just a mere breeder. The football coaches us the look, the study also with observers personal vivendolo almost 24 hours on 24. And Carmine and Lepiller are two of the players that I was able to watch and study during these months .. "
"Right now I am on vacation, without being the coach of any team. Pending, in short .."
TUTTA LA FIORENTINA MINUTO PER MINUTO SOLO SU FIRENZEVIOLA.IT ALL THE MINUTE BY MINUTE FIORENTINA ONLY ON FIRENZEVIO Report
In Italian - DE CANIO A FV, Ho suggerito i due viola al Qpr
De Canio: "I suggested two purple to QPR"
19.06.2008 17.26 di Appi . articolo letto 2644 volte 19.06.2008 17.26 to Appi. Article read 2644 times
Fonte: esclusiva firenzeviola.it Source: exclusive firenzeviola.it
And not just in terms of the big names, like Mutu, Vargas, Burdisso and companionship singer. There is also a parallel market, that of young people who have grown the purple so far under its protective wing and who now want to blossom and mature elsewhere, then riaverli a day, loads of experience playing and life, along with 'Arno.
And 'news this morning that the transfer now coming Samuel Di Carmine and Mathias Lepiller in England, the Queen's Park Rangers. Firenzeviola.. Firenzeviola.it contacted Luigi De Canio, technical until the end of the season just ended the albionici, which has revealed exclusively interesting background about it.
. Di Carmine and Lepiller to QPR. Do you think that is the appropriate environment to grow two young?
"They are a team very ambitious, aiming to win the championship next season. I am left for personal reasons, but the QPR has a beautiful project. For the growth of young people may be ideal, although much depends on how one is located and the character of the boy. doubt is a company that wants to do well in the future "
"QPR has also worked on the advice myself. The coach, in my view, is not just a mere breeder. The football coaches us the look, the study also with observers personal vivendolo almost 24 hours on 24. And Carmine and Lepiller are two of the players that I was able to watch and study during these months .. "
"Right now I am on vacation, without being the coach of any team. Pending, in short .."
TUTTA LA FIORENTINA MINUTO PER MINUTO SOLO SU FIRENZEVIOLA.IT ALL THE MINUTE BY MINUTE FIORENTINA ONLY ON FIRENZEVIO Report
Snippets: Stefan Bailey Joins Grays Athletics
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QPR Official Site Today BAILEY JOINS GRAYS
Stefan Bailey has joined Blue Square Premier League outfit Grays Athletic on a one year contract.
The 20 year-old midfielder, who is officially out of contract on June 30th, made 22 appearances in all competitions for the R's. QPR
QPR Official Site in May QUINTET TO GO
QPR quintet Sean Thomas, Aaron Goode, Andrew Howell, Stefan Bailey and Matt Pickens will be free to leave the Club when their current contracts expire at the end of June....
Bailey was restricted to just 20 appearances for the R's since signing professional terms during the 2005/06 campaign....The Club would like to thank all five players for their contribution to QPR and wish them all the best for a successful future. QPR
BBC -Bailey is Grays' latest signing
Bailey made his QPR debut at the age of 17 (Getty Images)
Grays Athletic have signed former Queens Park Rangers midfielder Stefan Bailey on a year-long contract.
The 20-year-old was released by QPR at the end of last season after making 18 appearances in three years.
Bailey played four games on loan with Grays' Blue Square Premier rivals Oxford United last season.
He becomes manager Mick Woodward's ninth signing of the summer as he reshapes the squad in a bid to better last season's 10th-placed finish. BBC
Grays Official Site - New Midfielder At The Rec
Grays Athletic have secured the signature of ex Queens Park Rangers Midfielder, Stefan Bailey, on a years contract, Stefan started as a trainee with QPR in 2004 and signed his first professional contract midway through the 2005/06 season, he is a tough tackling, hard working midfielder - Grays
QPR Official Site Today BAILEY JOINS GRAYS
Stefan Bailey has joined Blue Square Premier League outfit Grays Athletic on a one year contract.
The 20 year-old midfielder, who is officially out of contract on June 30th, made 22 appearances in all competitions for the R's. QPR
QPR Official Site in May QUINTET TO GO
QPR quintet Sean Thomas, Aaron Goode, Andrew Howell, Stefan Bailey and Matt Pickens will be free to leave the Club when their current contracts expire at the end of June....
Bailey was restricted to just 20 appearances for the R's since signing professional terms during the 2005/06 campaign....The Club would like to thank all five players for their contribution to QPR and wish them all the best for a successful future. QPR
BBC -Bailey is Grays' latest signing
Bailey made his QPR debut at the age of 17 (Getty Images)
Grays Athletic have signed former Queens Park Rangers midfielder Stefan Bailey on a year-long contract.
The 20-year-old was released by QPR at the end of last season after making 18 appearances in three years.
Bailey played four games on loan with Grays' Blue Square Premier rivals Oxford United last season.
He becomes manager Mick Woodward's ninth signing of the summer as he reshapes the squad in a bid to better last season's 10th-placed finish. BBC
Grays Official Site - New Midfielder At The Rec
Grays Athletic have secured the signature of ex Queens Park Rangers Midfielder, Stefan Bailey, on a years contract, Stefan started as a trainee with QPR in 2004 and signed his first professional contract midway through the 2005/06 season, he is a tough tackling, hard working midfielder - Grays
Loftus Road Under Development - Photos of Loftus Road
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From the Official Site -
Photos of Loftus Road Under Development
STADIUM WORKS ONGOING
As the clock ticks down to the start of the 2008/09 Coca Cola Championship campaign, stadium works are on-going at Loftus Road.
No fewer than 100 workmen are currently on-site, working on - amongst other things - new Disabled facilities, the Club's new Hospitality Suites, the new-look Executive Boxes, the stadium's interior design and the Club Superstore.
Stadium Director John Macdonald told www.qpr.co.uk: "It's a busy time for everyone.
"We've got over 100 workmen from a dozen or so different contractors working around the clock at the moment.
"There are painters, decorators, electricians, designers - you name them, they're here.
"We're on track for the start of August and we're confident the fans will embrace the new changes on the opening day of the season."
To view the latest photos from the stadium works, click here ---- Announcement
From the Official Site -
Photos of Loftus Road Under Development
STADIUM WORKS ONGOING
As the clock ticks down to the start of the 2008/09 Coca Cola Championship campaign, stadium works are on-going at Loftus Road.
No fewer than 100 workmen are currently on-site, working on - amongst other things - new Disabled facilities, the Club's new Hospitality Suites, the new-look Executive Boxes, the stadium's interior design and the Club Superstore.
Stadium Director John Macdonald told www.qpr.co.uk: "It's a busy time for everyone.
"We've got over 100 workmen from a dozen or so different contractors working around the clock at the moment.
"There are painters, decorators, electricians, designers - you name them, they're here.
"We're on track for the start of August and we're confident the fans will embrace the new changes on the opening day of the season."
To view the latest photos from the stadium works, click here ---- Announcement
Barnsley's Seeming Obsession With Queens Park Rangers
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To the itinerant QPR-supporting observer of Barnsley Football Club's Official Site, it might appear they evince a certain obsession with the goings on at QPR: Something that is very strange to show such interest on the official site about the goings on at other clubs - except of course in discussing forthcoming and past matches, and positions in the Division.
A few examples from Barnsley's Official Site:
- Today, June 19: "QPR Face Football League Investigation"
- May 12: "Dowie Back at QPR"
- May 8: "End of the Road for De Canio"
- September 2007: "QPR's Assistant Returns to Football"
- July 9, 2007: - "Anxious Wait for QPR"
Certainly for QPR, there is no equivalent scrutiny and for QPR fans, there is for the most part, no great interest in - let alone antipathy towards - Barnsley. When Barnsley played Cardiff in the FA Cup Semi-Final, probably most QPR fans were cheering for Barnsley.
The only possible item of "bad" blood between the two clubs would be QPR's signing of Danny Nardiello last year. But QPR did agree to loan back Nardiello last Spring.
Maybe this obsession is only imagined; and that closer observers of Barnsley Official Site would say Barnsley provide comparable information about all Championship clubs. But if not, it certainly seems a strange way of acting for a professional football club.
To the itinerant QPR-supporting observer of Barnsley Football Club's Official Site, it might appear they evince a certain obsession with the goings on at QPR: Something that is very strange to show such interest on the official site about the goings on at other clubs - except of course in discussing forthcoming and past matches, and positions in the Division.
A few examples from Barnsley's Official Site:
- Today, June 19: "QPR Face Football League Investigation"
- May 12: "Dowie Back at QPR"
- May 8: "End of the Road for De Canio"
- September 2007: "QPR's Assistant Returns to Football"
- July 9, 2007: - "Anxious Wait for QPR"
Certainly for QPR, there is no equivalent scrutiny and for QPR fans, there is for the most part, no great interest in - let alone antipathy towards - Barnsley. When Barnsley played Cardiff in the FA Cup Semi-Final, probably most QPR fans were cheering for Barnsley.
The only possible item of "bad" blood between the two clubs would be QPR's signing of Danny Nardiello last year. But QPR did agree to loan back Nardiello last Spring.
Maybe this obsession is only imagined; and that closer observers of Barnsley Official Site would say Barnsley provide comparable information about all Championship clubs. But if not, it certainly seems a strange way of acting for a professional football club.
Four Ex- QPR Birthdays...Nostalgia Flashback: What QPR Looked Like Two Years Ago
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Four Ex-QPR Birthdays:
Two born today; Two born tomorrow
Today's birthday: David Kerslake who turns
44 - Kerslake Record : One-time QPR wonder-kid, in the squad at 16. After several years at QPR, including a couple of consesutive seasons in which he played almost half the games, Kerslake converted into a fullback, moved on to Swindon, then Leeds and then Spurs.
Paul McGhee -
McGhee Playing Record
Born Tomorrow:
Rob Steiner - Turns 35 Born June 20, 1973 - Joined QPR initially on loan, signed by Gerry Francis: Helped save QPR and had a good next season before injury ended his career. Steiner Playing Record
Peter Reid - Turns 52. Born 20, 1965. Signed by Trevor Francis on a free...Released by Don Howe.- Career
(Sad) Snippet II:
One Year ago, QPR and Colchester were Announcing that Colchester's increased bid for Ray Jones had been turned down. Read: QPR and Colchester Statements
Snippet III - The Changing Face of QPR
What QPR looked like two years ago, in August 2006 both on and off the Field:
The Changing Face of QPR
From August 2006: Players in the Team Photo and the QPR Staff Directory
The 2006-2007 TEAM PHOTO - QUEENS PARK RANGERS FC
Back (l-r): Nick Ward, Ray Jones, Jon Munday, Dan Shittu, Ian Evatt, Pat Kanyuka, Marc Nygaard, Damion Stewart, Mauro Milanese, Stefan Moore, Armel Tchakounte, Egutu Oliseh, Paul Furlong, Matthew Rose.
Middle: Graeme Staddon (Massage Therapist), Tony Roberts (Goalkeeping Goach), Tommy Doherty, Andrew Howell, Scott Donnelly, Jake Cole, Sean Thomas, Simon Royce, Paul Jones, Stefan Bailey, Dominic Shimmin, Matthew Hislop, Justin Skinner (Reserve Manager), John O'Brien (Head of Recruitment).
Front: Mark Barry (Sports Scientist), Prav Mathema (Physiotherapist), Steve Lomas, Marc Bircham, Martin Rowlands, Kevin Gallen, Alan McDonald (Assistant Manager), Gary Waddock (Manager), Gareth Ainsworth, Marcus Bignot, Lee Cook, Shabazz Baidoo, Gary Doyle (Kit Man), Bobby Bacic (Assistant Physiotherapist).
From August 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE Staff Directory
Chairman - Gianni Paladini
Non-executive Directors - Franco Zanotti, Olga Paladini, Antonio Caliendo
Club Secretary - Sheila Marson
Chief Operating Officer - Graham Mackrell
Chief Financial Officer - Chris Pennington
First Team Coaching Staff
Manager - Gary Waddock
Assistant Manager - Alan McDonald
Reserve Team Manager - Justin Skinner
Goalkeeper Coach - Tony Roberts
Physiotherapist - Prav Mathema
Assistant Physiotherapist - Bobby Bacic
Youth and Recruitment
Head of Youth - Joe Gallen
Head of Youth Recruitment - John O'Brien
Box Office
Box Office Manager - Jenny Elliott
Press Office
Press & Publications Manager - Jackie Bass:
Press & Publications Officer - Ian Taylor:
New Media Manager - Paul Morrissey:
Commercial Department
Commercial & Communications Director - Paul Parker
Commercial Manager - Gary Hooper:
Sales Administration Manager - Geraldine Field:
Football in the Community
Community Scheme Manager - Andy Evans
Ladies Football - Martino Chevannes
And what QPR looks like today - Players - Staff (before several presumed arrivals - and of course a large number of players and off-the-field staff have arrived and departed in the interim.
Snippet IV: Paul Parker returned to QPR was talking about his QPR past and his plans for QPR - Parker Q&A.
Four Ex-QPR Birthdays:
Two born today; Two born tomorrow
Today's birthday: David Kerslake who turns
44 - Kerslake Record : One-time QPR wonder-kid, in the squad at 16. After several years at QPR, including a couple of consesutive seasons in which he played almost half the games, Kerslake converted into a fullback, moved on to Swindon, then Leeds and then Spurs.
Paul McGhee -
McGhee Playing Record
Born Tomorrow:
Rob Steiner - Turns 35 Born June 20, 1973 - Joined QPR initially on loan, signed by Gerry Francis: Helped save QPR and had a good next season before injury ended his career. Steiner Playing Record
Peter Reid - Turns 52. Born 20, 1965. Signed by Trevor Francis on a free...Released by Don Howe.- Career
(Sad) Snippet II:
One Year ago, QPR and Colchester were Announcing that Colchester's increased bid for Ray Jones had been turned down. Read: QPR and Colchester Statements
Snippet III - The Changing Face of QPR
What QPR looked like two years ago, in August 2006 both on and off the Field:
The Changing Face of QPR
From August 2006: Players in the Team Photo and the QPR Staff Directory
The 2006-2007 TEAM PHOTO - QUEENS PARK RANGERS FC
Back (l-r): Nick Ward, Ray Jones, Jon Munday, Dan Shittu, Ian Evatt, Pat Kanyuka, Marc Nygaard, Damion Stewart, Mauro Milanese, Stefan Moore, Armel Tchakounte, Egutu Oliseh, Paul Furlong, Matthew Rose.
Middle: Graeme Staddon (Massage Therapist), Tony Roberts (Goalkeeping Goach), Tommy Doherty, Andrew Howell, Scott Donnelly, Jake Cole, Sean Thomas, Simon Royce, Paul Jones, Stefan Bailey, Dominic Shimmin, Matthew Hislop, Justin Skinner (Reserve Manager), John O'Brien (Head of Recruitment).
Front: Mark Barry (Sports Scientist), Prav Mathema (Physiotherapist), Steve Lomas, Marc Bircham, Martin Rowlands, Kevin Gallen, Alan McDonald (Assistant Manager), Gary Waddock (Manager), Gareth Ainsworth, Marcus Bignot, Lee Cook, Shabazz Baidoo, Gary Doyle (Kit Man), Bobby Bacic (Assistant Physiotherapist).
From August 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE Staff Directory
Chairman - Gianni Paladini
Non-executive Directors - Franco Zanotti, Olga Paladini, Antonio Caliendo
Club Secretary - Sheila Marson
Chief Operating Officer - Graham Mackrell
Chief Financial Officer - Chris Pennington
First Team Coaching Staff
Manager - Gary Waddock
Assistant Manager - Alan McDonald
Reserve Team Manager - Justin Skinner
Goalkeeper Coach - Tony Roberts
Physiotherapist - Prav Mathema
Assistant Physiotherapist - Bobby Bacic
Youth and Recruitment
Head of Youth - Joe Gallen
Head of Youth Recruitment - John O'Brien
Box Office
Box Office Manager - Jenny Elliott
Press Office
Press & Publications Manager - Jackie Bass:
Press & Publications Officer - Ian Taylor:
New Media Manager - Paul Morrissey:
Commercial Department
Commercial & Communications Director - Paul Parker
Commercial Manager - Gary Hooper:
Sales Administration Manager - Geraldine Field:
Football in the Community
Community Scheme Manager - Andy Evans
Ladies Football - Martino Chevannes
And what QPR looks like today - Players - Staff (before several presumed arrivals - and of course a large number of players and off-the-field staff have arrived and departed in the interim.
Snippet IV: Paul Parker returned to QPR was talking about his QPR past and his plans for QPR - Parker Q&A.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Fulham Seeking to Gazump QPR For Zamora?
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Or maybe this is old news and the deal is hopefully done.
This is Local London - Fulham enter the race for Hammers striker
FULHAM have entered the race to sign West Ham's want-away striker Bobby Zamora, writes Sam Lom-Bor.
The ex-England Under-21 player made only 14 appearances for the Hammers last season after missing five months of the campaign through injury. He is now reportedly looking for a move away from Upton Park with assurances of first team football.
It had been reported that QPR were prepared to offer £2 million for the forward, but now Roy Hodgson has made clear his intention to sign the player, lining up a £3.5million bid.
But with Carlton Cole being linked with a move to Sunderland, Alan Curbishley may well be unwilling to let go of the 27 year-old. This is Local London
Or maybe this is old news and the deal is hopefully done.
This is Local London - Fulham enter the race for Hammers striker
FULHAM have entered the race to sign West Ham's want-away striker Bobby Zamora, writes Sam Lom-Bor.
The ex-England Under-21 player made only 14 appearances for the Hammers last season after missing five months of the campaign through injury. He is now reportedly looking for a move away from Upton Park with assurances of first team football.
It had been reported that QPR were prepared to offer £2 million for the forward, but now Roy Hodgson has made clear his intention to sign the player, lining up a £3.5million bid.
But with Carlton Cole being linked with a move to Sunderland, Alan Curbishley may well be unwilling to let go of the 27 year-old. This is Local London
Inquest Focus on Four QPR Youth Players
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Update: Press Association New evidence over Tube death
Several footballers could face charges over the death of a student in London after new evidence came to light.
Police confirmed they are examining new material over the death of Tu Quang Hoang Vu at Earl's Court Tube station.
He fell under a train as a group of QPR youth players were seen play fighting. Three teenagers arrested after the incident were released without charge. Press Association
Epsom Guardian/David Lindsell - Kingston student's Tube death inquest halted
The inquest into the death of a Kingston student who died after being falling into the path of a Tube train has been unexpectedly halted.
The jury at Westminster Coroner's Court was today shown "fresh evidence" by police which the coroner ruled could explain how Tu Hioa Quang Vu, 25, came to be knocked off the Earl's Court platform in November 2006 by QPR youth footballer Harry Smart.
Mr Smart, who also fell and was hit by the train, and his friends, who the jury heard were "horse-playing" on the platform, were furious at the decision to adjourn the inquest.
Inquests cannot assign blame but if fresh evidence emerges which could assist police, coroners have to stop proceedings.
The four boys were arrested at the time of Vu's death on suspicion of manslaughter but no charges were ever brought.
Earlier, jurors watching stilted CCTV footage of the incident which showed Mr Smart emerging from a blind spot between the cameras and careering into an unaware Mr Vu.
The jury were then shown a computer "re-construction" of the station, complete with a James Bond Devil May Care poster, using stick figures to suggest the positions of the youths on the platform.
Mr Smart had told the jury he had no memory of the incident which left him with severe head injuries and a metal rod in his leg.
He said: "The only remembrance I have is of the Sunday before...The next thing I got my bearings of where I am is in hospital." Report
Big News Day -Wednesday, 18th June 2008 - Footballers Could Face Tube Death Charges
Four young football stars could still face charges over the death of a university student pushed in front of a tube train two years ago after dramatic new scientific evidence was produced at an inquest.
The hearing into the death of Tu Quang Hoang Vu, who was reading for a Masters degree in architectural design, was dramatically halted by Westminster Deputy Coroner Dr Shirley Radcliffe to allow the Crown Prosecution Service time to view the sensational new material.
CPS lawyers will then have to decide if their is sufficient evidence to bring charges against teenage footballers Harry Smart, Chris Arthur, Ramone Rose and Kieron St Aime, who were all members of Championship club QPR's youth team at the time of the incident in November 2006.
The four youths were all arrested on suspicion of murder shortly after Kingston University student Mr Vu's death, but no charges have ever been laid.
The inquest had heard Vietnam-born Mr Vu was killed instantly after Smart, then just 17, shoulder-barged him off a platform at Earl's Court tube station in west London moments before tumbling head-first on to the tracks himself.
Seconds earlier the four lads were seen messing around and play-fighting by other commuters on the crowded platform shortly after 4pm on November 23rd, 2006.
The potentially crucial new evidence, which is still being developed, came from the Transport Research Laboratory whose resident scientists created a virtual reality 3D reconstruction of the movements of the young footballers in the crucial moments leading up to Mr Vu's death.
The high tech reconstruction covers the vital missing seconds which happened in a "blindspot" not covered by CCTV cameras monitoring the platform.
Detectives hope it will show what caused Smart to suddenly stagger away from the rest of his pals towards Mr Vu, sending the student flying over the edge of the platform.
At the moment of impact Smart's trousers appeared on CCTV stills shown to the inquest to have been pulled halfway down.
However, his three team-mates all denied doing anything that might have made him stumble when they gave evidence at the inquest.
They also denied play-fighting on the crowded platform, although CCTV stills clearly showed at least two of them "boxing".
Smart's pals instead suggested he had fallen after "losing control of his body".
Smart, who spent 10 days in hospital after suffering a broken leg and a fractured skull when he fell on to the tracks, told the inquest jury he had no memory of the incident, even though he remained conscious throughout and spoke lucidly to medics while trapped under the train.
Suited Smart told the jury: "In all honesty I don't have any recollection of the events at all.
"The last memory I have of that week was the Sunday four days earlier and the next time I get my bearings was in hospital a week later. It's just a total blank."
However, the inquest heard that when interviewed by police weeks after the incident he gave a prepared statement claiming he could remember falling backwards off the platform and that his memory was slowly returning piece by piece, prompting the Deputy Coroner to comment: "His memory seems to have got worse since then."
Det Supt Ashley Croft, of the British Transport Police, told the court he was "suspicious" and asked to see Smart's medical records to see if there was any reason why he might have fainted.
However, Smart's lawyers refused police consent to view their clients medical files.
And a month after Mr Vu's death Smart wrote on QPR's official website: "I am absolutely fine and recovering as we speak. I've been told it will be four months until I get back on the pitch. Just for the record, the incident that occurred was purely accidental.
"We were not horseplaying or fighting. In fact we were all well away from the edge of the platform. I apparently fainted and accidentally fell on to the other man. I'm very sorry. It was a complete accident."
Det Supt Croft told the inquest: "There was no indication that he lost consciousness. Although he is saying he is suffering from memory loss, the web posting tended to contradict that."
When Dr Radcliffe was told that CPS lawyers were not yet aware of the new 3D reconstruction she adjourned the inquest and said: "I think the opportunity should be given for the CPS to view this additional evidence.
"I think there is still a chance that someone or some persons could be charged with the additional evidence available." 2008 Global News Feeds +44(0)207 684 3000
Report
Update: Press Association New evidence over Tube death
Several footballers could face charges over the death of a student in London after new evidence came to light.
Police confirmed they are examining new material over the death of Tu Quang Hoang Vu at Earl's Court Tube station.
He fell under a train as a group of QPR youth players were seen play fighting. Three teenagers arrested after the incident were released without charge. Press Association
Epsom Guardian/David Lindsell - Kingston student's Tube death inquest halted
The inquest into the death of a Kingston student who died after being falling into the path of a Tube train has been unexpectedly halted.
The jury at Westminster Coroner's Court was today shown "fresh evidence" by police which the coroner ruled could explain how Tu Hioa Quang Vu, 25, came to be knocked off the Earl's Court platform in November 2006 by QPR youth footballer Harry Smart.
Mr Smart, who also fell and was hit by the train, and his friends, who the jury heard were "horse-playing" on the platform, were furious at the decision to adjourn the inquest.
Inquests cannot assign blame but if fresh evidence emerges which could assist police, coroners have to stop proceedings.
The four boys were arrested at the time of Vu's death on suspicion of manslaughter but no charges were ever brought.
Earlier, jurors watching stilted CCTV footage of the incident which showed Mr Smart emerging from a blind spot between the cameras and careering into an unaware Mr Vu.
The jury were then shown a computer "re-construction" of the station, complete with a James Bond Devil May Care poster, using stick figures to suggest the positions of the youths on the platform.
Mr Smart had told the jury he had no memory of the incident which left him with severe head injuries and a metal rod in his leg.
He said: "The only remembrance I have is of the Sunday before...The next thing I got my bearings of where I am is in hospital." Report
Big News Day -Wednesday, 18th June 2008 - Footballers Could Face Tube Death Charges
Four young football stars could still face charges over the death of a university student pushed in front of a tube train two years ago after dramatic new scientific evidence was produced at an inquest.
The hearing into the death of Tu Quang Hoang Vu, who was reading for a Masters degree in architectural design, was dramatically halted by Westminster Deputy Coroner Dr Shirley Radcliffe to allow the Crown Prosecution Service time to view the sensational new material.
CPS lawyers will then have to decide if their is sufficient evidence to bring charges against teenage footballers Harry Smart, Chris Arthur, Ramone Rose and Kieron St Aime, who were all members of Championship club QPR's youth team at the time of the incident in November 2006.
The four youths were all arrested on suspicion of murder shortly after Kingston University student Mr Vu's death, but no charges have ever been laid.
The inquest had heard Vietnam-born Mr Vu was killed instantly after Smart, then just 17, shoulder-barged him off a platform at Earl's Court tube station in west London moments before tumbling head-first on to the tracks himself.
Seconds earlier the four lads were seen messing around and play-fighting by other commuters on the crowded platform shortly after 4pm on November 23rd, 2006.
The potentially crucial new evidence, which is still being developed, came from the Transport Research Laboratory whose resident scientists created a virtual reality 3D reconstruction of the movements of the young footballers in the crucial moments leading up to Mr Vu's death.
The high tech reconstruction covers the vital missing seconds which happened in a "blindspot" not covered by CCTV cameras monitoring the platform.
Detectives hope it will show what caused Smart to suddenly stagger away from the rest of his pals towards Mr Vu, sending the student flying over the edge of the platform.
At the moment of impact Smart's trousers appeared on CCTV stills shown to the inquest to have been pulled halfway down.
However, his three team-mates all denied doing anything that might have made him stumble when they gave evidence at the inquest.
They also denied play-fighting on the crowded platform, although CCTV stills clearly showed at least two of them "boxing".
Smart's pals instead suggested he had fallen after "losing control of his body".
Smart, who spent 10 days in hospital after suffering a broken leg and a fractured skull when he fell on to the tracks, told the inquest jury he had no memory of the incident, even though he remained conscious throughout and spoke lucidly to medics while trapped under the train.
Suited Smart told the jury: "In all honesty I don't have any recollection of the events at all.
"The last memory I have of that week was the Sunday four days earlier and the next time I get my bearings was in hospital a week later. It's just a total blank."
However, the inquest heard that when interviewed by police weeks after the incident he gave a prepared statement claiming he could remember falling backwards off the platform and that his memory was slowly returning piece by piece, prompting the Deputy Coroner to comment: "His memory seems to have got worse since then."
Det Supt Ashley Croft, of the British Transport Police, told the court he was "suspicious" and asked to see Smart's medical records to see if there was any reason why he might have fainted.
However, Smart's lawyers refused police consent to view their clients medical files.
And a month after Mr Vu's death Smart wrote on QPR's official website: "I am absolutely fine and recovering as we speak. I've been told it will be four months until I get back on the pitch. Just for the record, the incident that occurred was purely accidental.
"We were not horseplaying or fighting. In fact we were all well away from the edge of the platform. I apparently fainted and accidentally fell on to the other man. I'm very sorry. It was a complete accident."
Det Supt Croft told the inquest: "There was no indication that he lost consciousness. Although he is saying he is suffering from memory loss, the web posting tended to contradict that."
When Dr Radcliffe was told that CPS lawyers were not yet aware of the new 3D reconstruction she adjourned the inquest and said: "I think the opportunity should be given for the CPS to view this additional evidence.
"I think there is still a chance that someone or some persons could be charged with the additional evidence available." 2008 Global News Feeds +44(0)207 684 3000
Report
QPR Announce Partnership With Abbey/Santander
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What it actually means, leave to others! Re Santander - Also re Santander
QPR Official Site - R'S BANK ON SANTANDER
Queens Park Rangers Football Club today announced a new two-year partnership with Abbey, part of the Santander Group, who will become the Club's Official Financial Partner. The new deal will see the development of a partnership, which will provide the financial group with a bespoke programme including joint branding at Loftus Road, access to players and senior staff and the use of Club facilities throughout the year.
One important aspect will be the ability to build with QPR a new element to Abbey's Corporate and Social Responsibility activities, as well as exploring business and commercial relationships with the Football Club under a new 'Business in Sport' programme.
Nathan Bostock, CFO and Executive Director, Products and Marketing at Abbey, said: "QPR has a great ambition and we are excited to be part of it.
"We look forward to developing a business and community programme with the Club that will involve our staff and customers as well as building on our existing initiatives with schools, charities and local communities."
Amit Bhatia, Vice Chairman of QPR Holdings Ltd, added: "Today is another very important day for QPR, as we welcome one of the world's largest banks on board as our strategic financial partner.
"Abbey is part of a global banking brand that stands for success and excellence worldwide, and these are qualities that we strive to instil within our Club.
"We hope to have a long and successful partnership with them, and look forward to ushering in the new era for QPR together.
"I would like to thank the team at Abbey for their confidence in us, and I hope that before long we will achieve our dream of promotion into the Premier League with them as our partners." QPR
What it actually means, leave to others! Re Santander - Also re Santander
QPR Official Site - R'S BANK ON SANTANDER
Queens Park Rangers Football Club today announced a new two-year partnership with Abbey, part of the Santander Group, who will become the Club's Official Financial Partner. The new deal will see the development of a partnership, which will provide the financial group with a bespoke programme including joint branding at Loftus Road, access to players and senior staff and the use of Club facilities throughout the year.
One important aspect will be the ability to build with QPR a new element to Abbey's Corporate and Social Responsibility activities, as well as exploring business and commercial relationships with the Football Club under a new 'Business in Sport' programme.
Nathan Bostock, CFO and Executive Director, Products and Marketing at Abbey, said: "QPR has a great ambition and we are excited to be part of it.
"We look forward to developing a business and community programme with the Club that will involve our staff and customers as well as building on our existing initiatives with schools, charities and local communities."
Amit Bhatia, Vice Chairman of QPR Holdings Ltd, added: "Today is another very important day for QPR, as we welcome one of the world's largest banks on board as our strategic financial partner.
"Abbey is part of a global banking brand that stands for success and excellence worldwide, and these are qualities that we strive to instil within our Club.
"We hope to have a long and successful partnership with them, and look forward to ushering in the new era for QPR together.
"I would like to thank the team at Abbey for their confidence in us, and I hope that before long we will achieve our dream of promotion into the Premier League with them as our partners." QPR
Scottish Friendlies Rather than Fiorentina and Bologna Friendlies...Rowan Vine re Birmingham
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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
"...QPR have announced a pre-season trip to Scotland at the end of July after their planned friendlies against Fiorentina and Bologna fell through...." Kilburn Times
(Most of the rest of Ben Kosky's Kilburn Times article is about Rowan Vine's recovery and looking forward to Birmingham Rowan Vine: "...."Hopefully I'll be fit and raring to go for those two games in October. I'll be going out to try and show people what they missed out on and what I can do," Vine told the Times.
"I think the fans at Birmingham were quite happy with me when we won promotion and I didn't get much opportunity in the Premier League under Steve Bruce, but you take it on the chin.
"I don't think Alex McLeish ever saw me train or play, but he was quick to make up his mind that I wasn't what was required and there wasn't a place in the team for me...." Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
"...QPR have announced a pre-season trip to Scotland at the end of July after their planned friendlies against Fiorentina and Bologna fell through...." Kilburn Times
(Most of the rest of Ben Kosky's Kilburn Times article is about Rowan Vine's recovery and looking forward to Birmingham Rowan Vine: "...."Hopefully I'll be fit and raring to go for those two games in October. I'll be going out to try and show people what they missed out on and what I can do," Vine told the Times.
"I think the fans at Birmingham were quite happy with me when we won promotion and I didn't get much opportunity in the Premier League under Steve Bruce, but you take it on the chin.
"I don't think Alex McLeish ever saw me train or play, but he was quick to make up his mind that I wasn't what was required and there wasn't a place in the team for me...." Kilburn Times
QPR Announce Falkirk AND Kilmarnock Friendlies
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Falkirk, July 26...Kilmarnock, July 29 [The Falkirk game was announced yesterday on Falkirk's site. The Kilmarnock game not yet announced on Kilmarnock's site!]
QPR Official Site SCOTTISH DATES ANNOUNCED
The Club are delighted to announce two further pre-season friendlies against Scottish Premier League duo Falkirk and Kilmarnock.
Iain Dowie's side will lock horns with Falkirk on Saturday 26th July (3.00pm), before making the short journey to fellow Clydesdale Bank Premier League side Kilmarnock four days later.
John Hughes' Falkirk outfit finished the 2007/08 campaign in a noteworthy seventh place, while Killie - under the guidance of former Hearts boss Jim Jefferies - concluded their season just one position above the foot of the Premier League table.
Rangers kick-start their pre-season campaign against Blue Square Premier League side Stevenage Borough on Saturday 19th July, before travelling to the Sixfields Stadium - home of Northampton Town - on Wednesday 23rd July.
Following their short stay in Scotland, Dowie's men complete their pre-season schedule with a mouthwatering fixture against Serie A newcomers, AC Chievo Verona, at Loftus Road.
Pre Season Friendlies
Stevenage Borough v QPR - Saturday 19th July (3.00pm)
Northampton Town v QPR - Wednesday 23rd July (7.45pm)
Falkirk v QPR - Saturday 26th July (3.00pm)
Kilmarnock v QPR - Tuesday 29th July (TBC)
QPR v AC Chievo Verona - Saturday 2nd August (3.00pm)
*Ticket details will be announced in due course.
QPR
Falkirk, July 26...Kilmarnock, July 29 [The Falkirk game was announced yesterday on Falkirk's site. The Kilmarnock game not yet announced on Kilmarnock's site!]
QPR Official Site SCOTTISH DATES ANNOUNCED
The Club are delighted to announce two further pre-season friendlies against Scottish Premier League duo Falkirk and Kilmarnock.
Iain Dowie's side will lock horns with Falkirk on Saturday 26th July (3.00pm), before making the short journey to fellow Clydesdale Bank Premier League side Kilmarnock four days later.
John Hughes' Falkirk outfit finished the 2007/08 campaign in a noteworthy seventh place, while Killie - under the guidance of former Hearts boss Jim Jefferies - concluded their season just one position above the foot of the Premier League table.
Rangers kick-start their pre-season campaign against Blue Square Premier League side Stevenage Borough on Saturday 19th July, before travelling to the Sixfields Stadium - home of Northampton Town - on Wednesday 23rd July.
Following their short stay in Scotland, Dowie's men complete their pre-season schedule with a mouthwatering fixture against Serie A newcomers, AC Chievo Verona, at Loftus Road.
Pre Season Friendlies
Stevenage Borough v QPR - Saturday 19th July (3.00pm)
Northampton Town v QPR - Wednesday 23rd July (7.45pm)
Falkirk v QPR - Saturday 26th July (3.00pm)
Kilmarnock v QPR - Tuesday 29th July (TBC)
QPR v AC Chievo Verona - Saturday 2nd August (3.00pm)
*Ticket details will be announced in due course.
QPR
Gorkss Complaint Consequences - Update
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[As of now, nothing on the QPR Official Site re this]
UPDATE: Football LEague Response
Sporting Life -The Football League could block Kaspars Gorkss' move from Blackpool to QPR if they decide the Rs have made an illegal approach.
Blackpool have lodged an official complaint with the Football League against their Championship rivals, alleging they made an illegal approach for the highly-rated Latvia international.
And the Football League said in a statement: "In the first instance QPR have been asked for their response to this complaint.
"Until they have responded and a decision is taken as to whether this matter is taken forward, we cannot comment further.
"However, under Regulation 66, any prima facie case would be referred to a football disciplinary commission established by the League.
"If found guilty, a club could be penalised by the registration of the player being refused, together with any other penalty the Commission might think fit in the circumstances. The timescale for hearing any complaint will depend on the circumstances of each case." Sporting Life
Blackpool Gazette - League may block Gorkss move
The Football League League could block Kaspars Gorkss' move to Queens Park Rangers and punish the London club further if they are found guilty of 'tapping up' the Seasiders defender.
Blackpool have reported QPR to the soccer authorities, alleging they made an illegal approach for the Latvian international, and manager
Simon Grayson has expressed his disappointment at the actions of their Championship rivals.
QPR announced last Thursday that they had made Pool an offer for the in-demand 26-year-old.
Grayson said: "I don't want to say too much about it but we have to protect the interests of our club and we are led to believe there has been an illegal approach.
"If anybody approaches our club and offers money, then it is our decision whether to give them permission to talk to players.
"We like to do our football business in the right way and we feel this has not been done.
"It was disappointing to read that Kaspars has already signed for Queens Park Rangers while I was away (in the USA on holiday).
"I had been fully kept up to date that we'd had no official approach.
"Everyone does different types of business but it does not seem like the correct procedure.
"The chairman is now dealing with it, along with the Football League and the FA."
The Seasiders' official statement says the matter is now in the hands of the FA, though it is the Football League who will adjudicate on this delicate matter.
A Football League spokesman confirmed that Blackpool had lodged a complaint against Rangers for an alleged illegal approach.
He said: "In the first instance QPR have been asked for their response to this complaint.
"Until they have responded and a decision is taken as to whether this matter is taken forward, we cannot comment further.
"However, under Regulation 66, any prima facie case would be referred to a football disciplinary commission established by the League.
"If found guilty, a club could be penalised by the registration of the player being refused, together with any other penalty the Commission might think fit in the circumstances.
"The time scale for hearing any complaint will depend on the circumstances of each case."
There are no recent precedents at Football League level, though Chelsea were found guilty of 'tapping-up' Ashley Cole. Even so, the England defender's transfer from Arsenal still went through.
Asked if the Loftus Road club intended to fight Blackpool's strong accusation, a Rangers spokesman declined to comment.
The QPR bid was widely believed to be for £250,000, the figure which would trigger a release clause in Gorkss' contract which still has a year to run.
It is not only Blackpool and QPR who will be following the developments of any League hearing intently.
Gorkss, who caught the eye during a successful first Championship campaign, has interested a host of rival clubs, including Burnley,
Ipswich, Norwich, Watford and Preston North End, as well as Rangers north of the border. Blackpool Gazette
See Earlier: "Gorkss 'Illegal Approach' Complaint Update
[As of now, nothing on the QPR Official Site re this]
UPDATE: Football LEague Response
Sporting Life -The Football League could block Kaspars Gorkss' move from Blackpool to QPR if they decide the Rs have made an illegal approach.
Blackpool have lodged an official complaint with the Football League against their Championship rivals, alleging they made an illegal approach for the highly-rated Latvia international.
And the Football League said in a statement: "In the first instance QPR have been asked for their response to this complaint.
"Until they have responded and a decision is taken as to whether this matter is taken forward, we cannot comment further.
"However, under Regulation 66, any prima facie case would be referred to a football disciplinary commission established by the League.
"If found guilty, a club could be penalised by the registration of the player being refused, together with any other penalty the Commission might think fit in the circumstances. The timescale for hearing any complaint will depend on the circumstances of each case." Sporting Life
Blackpool Gazette - League may block Gorkss move
The Football League League could block Kaspars Gorkss' move to Queens Park Rangers and punish the London club further if they are found guilty of 'tapping up' the Seasiders defender.
Blackpool have reported QPR to the soccer authorities, alleging they made an illegal approach for the Latvian international, and manager
Simon Grayson has expressed his disappointment at the actions of their Championship rivals.
QPR announced last Thursday that they had made Pool an offer for the in-demand 26-year-old.
Grayson said: "I don't want to say too much about it but we have to protect the interests of our club and we are led to believe there has been an illegal approach.
"If anybody approaches our club and offers money, then it is our decision whether to give them permission to talk to players.
"We like to do our football business in the right way and we feel this has not been done.
"It was disappointing to read that Kaspars has already signed for Queens Park Rangers while I was away (in the USA on holiday).
"I had been fully kept up to date that we'd had no official approach.
"Everyone does different types of business but it does not seem like the correct procedure.
"The chairman is now dealing with it, along with the Football League and the FA."
The Seasiders' official statement says the matter is now in the hands of the FA, though it is the Football League who will adjudicate on this delicate matter.
A Football League spokesman confirmed that Blackpool had lodged a complaint against Rangers for an alleged illegal approach.
He said: "In the first instance QPR have been asked for their response to this complaint.
"Until they have responded and a decision is taken as to whether this matter is taken forward, we cannot comment further.
"However, under Regulation 66, any prima facie case would be referred to a football disciplinary commission established by the League.
"If found guilty, a club could be penalised by the registration of the player being refused, together with any other penalty the Commission might think fit in the circumstances.
"The time scale for hearing any complaint will depend on the circumstances of each case."
There are no recent precedents at Football League level, though Chelsea were found guilty of 'tapping-up' Ashley Cole. Even so, the England defender's transfer from Arsenal still went through.
Asked if the Loftus Road club intended to fight Blackpool's strong accusation, a Rangers spokesman declined to comment.
The QPR bid was widely believed to be for £250,000, the figure which would trigger a release clause in Gorkss' contract which still has a year to run.
It is not only Blackpool and QPR who will be following the developments of any League hearing intently.
Gorkss, who caught the eye during a successful first Championship campaign, has interested a host of rival clubs, including Burnley,
Ipswich, Norwich, Watford and Preston North End, as well as Rangers north of the border. Blackpool Gazette
See Earlier: "Gorkss 'Illegal Approach' Complaint Update
Ex-QPR CEO Mark Devlin Recalls His Early Days at QPR
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On the Independent Rs Site: Nice early memories from QPR's former CEO, Mark Devlin of going to see QPR as a youth and then subsequently going to work at QPR. See: Mark Devlin - "Living The Dream – Part One"
On the Independent Rs Site: Nice early memories from QPR's former CEO, Mark Devlin of going to see QPR as a youth and then subsequently going to work at QPR. See: Mark Devlin - "Living The Dream – Part One"
Four Year Flashback - Departure of "Old Regime" of Blackburn, Davies and Jones
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Before the era of Bill Power and Gianni Paladini and Antonio Caliendo and Flavio Briatore - and after Jim Gregory and David Bulstrode and Richard Thompson and Chris Wright - was Nick Blackburn and David Davies...
See also Extremely Interesting AKUTRs Interview with then QPR Chairman, Nick Blackburn and also: QPR Net Interview with then CEO, David Davies
Four Years Ago... June 18, 2004 QPR CEO David Davies announced his departure. A few days later, QPR's Chairman, Nick Blackburn resigned. With the departure of Davies, Blackburn and Ross Jones (Chairman of the PLC), the new people in charge of QPR became Bill Power who became QPR Chairman, Kevin McGrath who became QPR PLC Chairman; and Gianni Paladini (whose wife officially became a Director).
Below BBC report + analyses from that period from "Boardroom Blues" and Ron Norris at the old QPR Rivals
June 18, 2004 BBC -Davies leaving Loftus Road
Queens Park Rangers chief executive David Davies is leaving the club.
The departure of Davies, who has been at QPR for four years, was confirmed after a series of board meetings.
"Whilst I am naturally sad to be leaving, I'd like to place on record my best wishes to the players and the supporters for the future," he said.
QPR Holdings chairman Ross Jones said: "He has worked his socks off for the company and I am personally very grateful for all he has done." BBC
BBC - June 24, 2004 QPR chief stands down
Nick Blackburn has resigned as Queens Park Rangers chairman.
His future has been in doubt since the recent resignation of chief executive David Davies.
Blackburn was former Rangers owner Chris Wright's deputy before taking over as chairman when Wright quit the club in 2001.
Davies, Blackburn and company chairman Ross Jones are leaving as part of a shake-up at Loftus Road following disagreements at board level.
Blackburn told the club's website: "I will always be proud that I was chairman of the football club when it achieved promotion.
"And I particularly enjoyed my close personal and professional relationship with manager Ian Holloway."
Blackburn was effectively at the helm through all of the club's worst times and, while we don't doubt his professed commitment to QPR, we will not miss him
QPR director Bill Power will replace Blackburn, with fellow director Kevin McGrath appointed acting plc chairman.
Justin Pieris of the QPR supporters' trust, QPR 1st, welcomed news of Blackburn's departure.
Blackburn angered fans by considering a merger with Wimbledon and was also associated with the club's slide into administration.
Pieris said: "Nick Blackburn was our last link with the years of waste that followed QPR's relegation from the Premiership.
"As Chris Wright's deputy, he was effectively at the helm through all of the club's worst times and, while we don't doubt his professed commitment to QPR, we will not miss him.
"His attempt to broker the merger of Wimbledon FC and Rangers was probably the single act that cost him most trust amongst supporters.
"He never regained that trust, deservedly so." BBC
BOARDROOM BLUES - June 21 2004 - END OF WRIGHT ERA APPROACHES
Monday 21 June 2004
Chief executive David Davies is to leave Loftus Road "by mutual agreement" next month, and it is reported that directors Ross Jones and Nick Blackburn will soon follow. With their departure the QPR boardroom will finally be rid of Chris Wright's appointees.
The exact reasons for Davies' exit are not yet clear, although QPR's official website refers to a "restructuring" at the club. This is likely to mean that there are plans afoot to convert the plc into a private company and / or that cost-cutting measures off the pitch are underway (even with loan repayments to the ABC Corporation running at £1m a year many QPR supporters are baffled as to how the club, with vastly improved merchandise sales and record attendances, can still be losing money hand over fist).
During Davies' four years at Loftus Road numerous potential investors have come and gone, and Davies is on record as describing most of them as "men of straw" with two exceptions, both of whom he courted vigorously on behalf of the club. The first was Australian David Thorne, and Davies described it as a "hammer blow" when Thorne withdrew his offer to invest. The second was Milwaukee Wave owner Tim Krause: after 18 months of prevarication QPR have given Krause a deadline of today and there is still no sign whatsoever of his investment materialising.
Davies assumed more responsibility than most chief executives of league football clubs and was often left to deal with crises alone when you would have expected chairmen or directors to step in and take over or at least provide help. Consequently he leaves big footprints, and it will be interesting to see who fills them over the coming months.
Boardroom Blues believes that behind the scenes Gianni Paladini has been trying to restructure the club since April when he bought 22% of the plc shares and installed his representative, accountant Mohammed Azeem Malik, on the board of directors. It seems probable that Paladini has now persuaded directors Kevin McGrath and Bill Power to line up with him and outvote the old guard. Boardroom Blues
QPR Rivals - June 19, 2004 DD's D-Day By Ron Norris
It was announced today that Chief Executive David Davies will leave Loftus Road next month sparking rumours of a possible imminent investment at QPR.
David Davies To Leave QPR
Davies joined QPR four years ago and leaves the club by mutual consent. He will stay until July at which point you would expect him to be handing over to someone, who that might be remains a mystery.
DD's departure has been met with mixed reactions; there is no doubt that he has done some good for the club. He is clearly a good face for QPR. He is eloquent, media friendly and comes across as an approachable man.
His impeccable handling of the recent situation with Ian Wright showed just how astute he can be, however he came in for much criticism just before Christmas when his ill timed comments to a local paper about the clubs financial position created wide spread panic.
Davies moved the club into, through and out of administration, taking out the highly controversial loan with ABC in the process; something he still maintains was unavoidable despite many protestations to the contrary. He leaves the club promoted with record season ticket sales and heading in the right direction.
He was involved in the decision to bring Ian Holloway to the club, which has undoubtedly been our best managerial appointment of recent years, however it was one the board lucked into having been turned down by all their principal choices.
His reputation took a major battering the day he decided to take three Rangers fans to court after a leaked boardroom memo was placed on a QPR website.
In a recent interview with QPRnet.com Davies defended this decision by saying "We've come too far to have people treat QPR like it's an amateur club. It's a professional club, it's got good people in it and I'm dammed if I'm going to have people treat it like no name United playing in an amateur league".
It was a move that left a sour taste in the mouth of many and one that could forever tarnish his legacy at Loftus Road. QPR Rivals
Before the era of Bill Power and Gianni Paladini and Antonio Caliendo and Flavio Briatore - and after Jim Gregory and David Bulstrode and Richard Thompson and Chris Wright - was Nick Blackburn and David Davies...
See also Extremely Interesting AKUTRs Interview with then QPR Chairman, Nick Blackburn and also: QPR Net Interview with then CEO, David Davies
Four Years Ago... June 18, 2004 QPR CEO David Davies announced his departure. A few days later, QPR's Chairman, Nick Blackburn resigned. With the departure of Davies, Blackburn and Ross Jones (Chairman of the PLC), the new people in charge of QPR became Bill Power who became QPR Chairman, Kevin McGrath who became QPR PLC Chairman; and Gianni Paladini (whose wife officially became a Director).
Below BBC report + analyses from that period from "Boardroom Blues" and Ron Norris at the old QPR Rivals
June 18, 2004 BBC -Davies leaving Loftus Road
Queens Park Rangers chief executive David Davies is leaving the club.
The departure of Davies, who has been at QPR for four years, was confirmed after a series of board meetings.
"Whilst I am naturally sad to be leaving, I'd like to place on record my best wishes to the players and the supporters for the future," he said.
QPR Holdings chairman Ross Jones said: "He has worked his socks off for the company and I am personally very grateful for all he has done." BBC
BBC - June 24, 2004 QPR chief stands down
Nick Blackburn has resigned as Queens Park Rangers chairman.
His future has been in doubt since the recent resignation of chief executive David Davies.
Blackburn was former Rangers owner Chris Wright's deputy before taking over as chairman when Wright quit the club in 2001.
Davies, Blackburn and company chairman Ross Jones are leaving as part of a shake-up at Loftus Road following disagreements at board level.
Blackburn told the club's website: "I will always be proud that I was chairman of the football club when it achieved promotion.
"And I particularly enjoyed my close personal and professional relationship with manager Ian Holloway."
Blackburn was effectively at the helm through all of the club's worst times and, while we don't doubt his professed commitment to QPR, we will not miss him
QPR director Bill Power will replace Blackburn, with fellow director Kevin McGrath appointed acting plc chairman.
Justin Pieris of the QPR supporters' trust, QPR 1st, welcomed news of Blackburn's departure.
Blackburn angered fans by considering a merger with Wimbledon and was also associated with the club's slide into administration.
Pieris said: "Nick Blackburn was our last link with the years of waste that followed QPR's relegation from the Premiership.
"As Chris Wright's deputy, he was effectively at the helm through all of the club's worst times and, while we don't doubt his professed commitment to QPR, we will not miss him.
"His attempt to broker the merger of Wimbledon FC and Rangers was probably the single act that cost him most trust amongst supporters.
"He never regained that trust, deservedly so." BBC
BOARDROOM BLUES - June 21 2004 - END OF WRIGHT ERA APPROACHES
Monday 21 June 2004
Chief executive David Davies is to leave Loftus Road "by mutual agreement" next month, and it is reported that directors Ross Jones and Nick Blackburn will soon follow. With their departure the QPR boardroom will finally be rid of Chris Wright's appointees.
The exact reasons for Davies' exit are not yet clear, although QPR's official website refers to a "restructuring" at the club. This is likely to mean that there are plans afoot to convert the plc into a private company and / or that cost-cutting measures off the pitch are underway (even with loan repayments to the ABC Corporation running at £1m a year many QPR supporters are baffled as to how the club, with vastly improved merchandise sales and record attendances, can still be losing money hand over fist).
During Davies' four years at Loftus Road numerous potential investors have come and gone, and Davies is on record as describing most of them as "men of straw" with two exceptions, both of whom he courted vigorously on behalf of the club. The first was Australian David Thorne, and Davies described it as a "hammer blow" when Thorne withdrew his offer to invest. The second was Milwaukee Wave owner Tim Krause: after 18 months of prevarication QPR have given Krause a deadline of today and there is still no sign whatsoever of his investment materialising.
Davies assumed more responsibility than most chief executives of league football clubs and was often left to deal with crises alone when you would have expected chairmen or directors to step in and take over or at least provide help. Consequently he leaves big footprints, and it will be interesting to see who fills them over the coming months.
Boardroom Blues believes that behind the scenes Gianni Paladini has been trying to restructure the club since April when he bought 22% of the plc shares and installed his representative, accountant Mohammed Azeem Malik, on the board of directors. It seems probable that Paladini has now persuaded directors Kevin McGrath and Bill Power to line up with him and outvote the old guard. Boardroom Blues
QPR Rivals - June 19, 2004 DD's D-Day By Ron Norris
It was announced today that Chief Executive David Davies will leave Loftus Road next month sparking rumours of a possible imminent investment at QPR.
David Davies To Leave QPR
Davies joined QPR four years ago and leaves the club by mutual consent. He will stay until July at which point you would expect him to be handing over to someone, who that might be remains a mystery.
DD's departure has been met with mixed reactions; there is no doubt that he has done some good for the club. He is clearly a good face for QPR. He is eloquent, media friendly and comes across as an approachable man.
His impeccable handling of the recent situation with Ian Wright showed just how astute he can be, however he came in for much criticism just before Christmas when his ill timed comments to a local paper about the clubs financial position created wide spread panic.
Davies moved the club into, through and out of administration, taking out the highly controversial loan with ABC in the process; something he still maintains was unavoidable despite many protestations to the contrary. He leaves the club promoted with record season ticket sales and heading in the right direction.
He was involved in the decision to bring Ian Holloway to the club, which has undoubtedly been our best managerial appointment of recent years, however it was one the board lucked into having been turned down by all their principal choices.
His reputation took a major battering the day he decided to take three Rangers fans to court after a leaked boardroom memo was placed on a QPR website.
In a recent interview with QPRnet.com Davies defended this decision by saying "We've come too far to have people treat QPR like it's an amateur club. It's a professional club, it's got good people in it and I'm dammed if I'm going to have people treat it like no name United playing in an amateur league".
It was a move that left a sour taste in the mouth of many and one that could forever tarnish his legacy at Loftus Road. QPR Rivals
QPR's De Facto CEO, Ali Russell re Season Tickets
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From the QPR fan site, QPR1st a few brief written responses to queries posed to him by QPR1st.
QPR1st - June 17, 2008- "Ali Russell responds to season ticket questions
"On the 5th June we sent a number of questions regarding the season ticket prices to Ali Russell. Yesterday, the 16th June we received back our original questions with Ali Russell's answers marked in red. you can read the questions and answers as we received them by viewing the PDF file via the link below. See QPR1st Q&A
From the QPR fan site, QPR1st a few brief written responses to queries posed to him by QPR1st.
QPR1st - June 17, 2008- "Ali Russell responds to season ticket questions
"On the 5th June we sent a number of questions regarding the season ticket prices to Ali Russell. Yesterday, the 16th June we received back our original questions with Ali Russell's answers marked in red. you can read the questions and answers as we received them by viewing the PDF file via the link below. See QPR1st Q&A
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Gorkss "Illegal Approach" Complaint - Update
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[Still no comment on QPR's Official Site]
BBC - FA to handle QPR Gorkss approach
Blackpool have lodged a formal complaint with the Football Association accusing Queens Park Rangers of making an illegal approach for Kaspars Gorkss.
QPR tabled an undisclosed offer for the Latvia international defender last week, believed to be around £250,000.
"I don't want to say too much about it," Blackpool manager Simon Grayson told BBC Radio Lancashire.
"But we've got to protect the interests of our club and we're led to believe there's been an illegal approach."
Grayson added: "If anybody approachs our club and offers money then that's our decision to give permission to talk to players.
It was disappointing while I was away to read that Kaspars has already signed for Queens Park Rangers
Blackpool manager Simon Grayson
"But the matter is now in the FA's hands. We like to do our football business in the right way and we feel this hasn't been done."
And Grayson revealed his annoyance after QPR released a statement last week admitting they had made an offer for the 26-year-old.
"It was disappointing while I was away to read that Kaspars has already signed for Queens Park Rangers. I'd been fully kept up to date that we'd had no official approach.
"Everyone does different types of business but it doesn't seem like the correct procedure.
"I can't really comment too much more on it because the chairman's now dealing with it, along with the Football League and the FA," he concluded. BBC
Posted Earlier today on Blackpool Official Site
Club Statement
On 11 June, Blackpool Football Club can confirm that it reported Queens Park Rangers to the FA for what it deems to be an illegal approach for defender Kaspars Gorkss.
This matter is now in the hands of the FA.
We currently have no further comment to make. Blackpool
Blackpool Gazette - Pool accuse rivals in Gorkss row
Blackpool today accused Championship rivals Queens Park Rangers of making an illegal approach for defender Kapars Gorkss.
And the Seasiders have lodged a formal complaint to the FA.
Late last week, QPR confirmed that they had tabled a formal offer for the Latvian international.
They refused to disclose the amount, though it has been widely reported to be a £250,000 'release clause'.
The Seasiders issued a brief statement today, saying: "Blackpool FC can confirm that it has reported Queens Park Rangers to the FA for what it deems to be an illegal approach for defender Kaspars Gorkss.
"We currently have no further comment to make."
New Rangers' manager Iain Dowie said over the weekend that he wanted a deal for Gorkss settled as quickly as possible.
An FA spokesman said today that the matter was one to be dealt with by the Football League. Blackpool Gazette
[Still no comment on QPR's Official Site]
BBC - FA to handle QPR Gorkss approach
Blackpool have lodged a formal complaint with the Football Association accusing Queens Park Rangers of making an illegal approach for Kaspars Gorkss.
QPR tabled an undisclosed offer for the Latvia international defender last week, believed to be around £250,000.
"I don't want to say too much about it," Blackpool manager Simon Grayson told BBC Radio Lancashire.
"But we've got to protect the interests of our club and we're led to believe there's been an illegal approach."
Grayson added: "If anybody approachs our club and offers money then that's our decision to give permission to talk to players.
It was disappointing while I was away to read that Kaspars has already signed for Queens Park Rangers
Blackpool manager Simon Grayson
"But the matter is now in the FA's hands. We like to do our football business in the right way and we feel this hasn't been done."
And Grayson revealed his annoyance after QPR released a statement last week admitting they had made an offer for the 26-year-old.
"It was disappointing while I was away to read that Kaspars has already signed for Queens Park Rangers. I'd been fully kept up to date that we'd had no official approach.
"Everyone does different types of business but it doesn't seem like the correct procedure.
"I can't really comment too much more on it because the chairman's now dealing with it, along with the Football League and the FA," he concluded. BBC
Posted Earlier today on Blackpool Official Site
Club Statement
On 11 June, Blackpool Football Club can confirm that it reported Queens Park Rangers to the FA for what it deems to be an illegal approach for defender Kaspars Gorkss.
This matter is now in the hands of the FA.
We currently have no further comment to make. Blackpool
Blackpool Gazette - Pool accuse rivals in Gorkss row
Blackpool today accused Championship rivals Queens Park Rangers of making an illegal approach for defender Kapars Gorkss.
And the Seasiders have lodged a formal complaint to the FA.
Late last week, QPR confirmed that they had tabled a formal offer for the Latvian international.
They refused to disclose the amount, though it has been widely reported to be a £250,000 'release clause'.
The Seasiders issued a brief statement today, saying: "Blackpool FC can confirm that it has reported Queens Park Rangers to the FA for what it deems to be an illegal approach for defender Kaspars Gorkss.
"We currently have no further comment to make."
New Rangers' manager Iain Dowie said over the weekend that he wanted a deal for Gorkss settled as quickly as possible.
An FA spokesman said today that the matter was one to be dealt with by the Football League. Blackpool Gazette
QPR Friendly Against Falkirk
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[Not yet announced on QPR's Official Site]
Falkirk Official Site - Queens Park Rangers Friendly
Falkirk Football Club have arranged a very attractive pre season fixture against Queens Park Rangers on Saturday 26th of July...
Kick-off is 3pm and ticket details will be announced at a later date. This will the final fixture before John Hughes takes the squad to Holland for their annual visit.
Falkirk
[Not yet announced on QPR's Official Site]
Falkirk Official Site - Queens Park Rangers Friendly
Falkirk Football Club have arranged a very attractive pre season fixture against Queens Park Rangers on Saturday 26th of July...
Kick-off is 3pm and ticket details will be announced at a later date. This will the final fixture before John Hughes takes the squad to Holland for their annual visit.
Falkirk
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