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Sunday People 6 August 2006
JONES AT THE DOUBLE FOR A CLARETS FLIER
Burnley 2 QPR 0 Andrew Collomosse
NEW BOY Steve Jones hit a sharp double to give the Clarets a flying start to the season.
Jones, a free transfer signing from Crewe, had scored six goals in Burnley's successful pre-season campaign.
And he kept up the good work with two second-half strikes that ended some stubborn resistance from Rangers.
The Jones boy hit the jackpot in the 59th minute when he took advantage of a stumble by defender Matthew Rose and netted a typical poacher's goal.
Ten minutes later the Northern Ireland striker was on target again. He collected a pass from sub Micah Hyde before cutting inside to lash a 20-yarder past Paul Jones.
There was no way back for Rangers and on this showing fears of a long hard winter could be realised.
Yet for long spells Burnley were no better as they lived up to manager Steve Cotterill's warning to the fans not to read too much into their pre-season form.
Skill
The Clarets had included a win over Premiership neighbours Bolton in their build-up, but they rarely showed much cohesion in a dire first half.
In fact until Jones scored the only real skill on show had come from King Keepy Uppy Daniel Magness with his displays before the kick-off and during the interval.
Rangers were first to show when a flick from Lee Cook was headed over by Adam Czerkas in the tenth minute. Soon after, Nick Ward nodded a Martin Rowlands corner straight at Brian Jensen.
He should have done a lot better and he was almost made to pay when Chris McCann set up a chance for Andy Gray at the other end, only for Paul Jones to save.
Burnley produced the first classy raid of the match in the 29th minute when Kyle Lafferty headed a Steve Jones cross over the top from close range.
The game desperately needed a goal after a slow start and Jones provided it.
With a two-goal cushion, Burnley started to play some more fluent football and Hyde almost made it three with minutes to go.
BURNLEY: Jensen 6 - Sinclair 6, Thomas 6, Duff 6, Harley 6 - *S JONES 8, J O'Connor 6 (Elliott, 62mins, 6), McCann 6, Mahon 7 (O'Connor, 90mins) - Lafferty 6 (Hyde, 62mins, 6), Gray 6,
QPR: P Jones 7 - Bignot 6, Stewart 6, Rose 5, Milanese 6 - Ainsworth 5, Lowmass 6 (R Jones, 67mins, 6), *ROWLANDS 8 (Donnelly, 74mins), Cook 6 - Ward 7 - Czerkas 6 (Bircham, 70mins.5). Ref M Clattenburg 6.
http://www.people.co.uk/sport/football/tm_objectid=17519603&method=full&siteid=93463&headline=jones-at-the-double-for-a-clarets-flier-name_page.html
Telegraph
Burnley (0) 2 Queens Park Rangers (0) 0
Burnley beat Queens Park Rangers thanks to a player that the London club tried to sign earlier this summer.
Steve Jones, a Northern Ireland international, ignited a laborious Turf Moor encounter with two clinically struck goals inside 10 second-half minutes - a debut feat that repeated his opening game double for his previous club, Crewe - also against Rangers - four years ago.
Jones said Rangers were one of seven clubs he spoke to after Crewe released him. "London was not for me. It would have meant uprooting my family and, after speaking to Burnley, I knew they were the club for me."
He revelled in the switch to a more central striking role after starting wide on the right. His 59th-minute opener to end the depressing deadlock after a sterile first half was a simple tap-in after Paul Jones, the visiting goalkeeper, was left unsighted when Kyle Lafferty challenged him.
"It was a bad goal to give away - we shot ourselves in the foot,"said Gary Waddock, the Rangers manager.
However, he had no complaints about "a fantastic second" from Jones, whose sweetly struck left-footed effort from 22 yards gave his namesake in goal no chance.
Match details
Burnley (4-4-2): Jensen; Sinclair, Thomas, Duff, Harley; S Jones (G O'Connor 90), J O'Connor (Elliott 62), McCann, Mahon; Gray, Lafferty (Hyde 62).
Subs: McGreal, Foster.
Goals: S Jones (59, 69).
Booked: Duff, Harley, J O'Connor
Queens Park Rangers (4-4-1-1): P Jones; Bignot, Stewart, Rose, Milanese; Ainsworth, Lomas (R Jones 66), Rowlands (Donnelly 79), Cook; Ward; Czerkas (Bircham 71).
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka.
Referee: M Clattenburg (Tyne & Wear).
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml;jsessionid=OE2C4GKBUC2EPQFIQMGCFF4AVCBQUIV0?xml=/sport/2006/08/07/sfgbur07.xml
The Times August 07, 2006
Keeping up with Jones is not easy
By Ron Lewis
Burnley 2 Queens Park Rangers 0
QUEENS PARK RANGERS FIELDED three new signings on Saturday, from Australia, Jamaica and Poland, Burnley had one, from Crewe Alexandra, but it was Steve Jones who scored the goals that gave his new side the perfect start to the new season.
Born in Londonderry, Jones moved to Oldham when he was 12 and had spells at Blackpool, Sligo Rovers and Leigh RMI before making his breakthrough in his mid-20s at Crewe. This summer he had seven clubs, including QPR, chasing his services. Jones, though, finds more pleasure in causing QPR pain.
“My wife said to me that I made my debut for Crewe against QPR and scored two goals and wouldn’t it be amazing if I did the same thing,” Jones said. “I talked to QPR but there was too much uprooting for me to go down there, I’m not a London boy. I knew as soon as I talked to Steve [Cotterill, the Burnley manager] that they were the ones for me and I didn’t have to move home. ”
Burnley struggled to come to terms with QPR’s five-man midfield in the first half but, after 58 minutes, hesitation in the visiting team’s defence let Kyle Lafferty slide in on Paul Jones, the goalkeeper, and Steve Jones tapped in the rebound. Eleven minutes later, Mauro Milanese gave the ball away to Frank Sinclair, who fed Jones to rocket the ball into the top corner.
With Kevin Gallen and Marc Nygaard injured, QPR started with a lone striker in Adam Czerkas, a 22-year-old on a year’s loan from Kolporter Korona in Poland. He received no support and QPR never looked like scoring. “You take those two out of the side and we are not much of a threat,” Gary Waddock, the manager, admitted. Waddock, who was made caretaker manager after Ian Holloway was sent on gardening leave in February, was given the job on a permanent basis in the summer despite finishing last season with a run of 11 games without a win. Having sold Dan Shittu to Watford yesterday, he may now have some money to invest in new signings.
Burnley (4-4-2): B Jensen — F Sinclair, W Thomas, M Duff, J Harley — S Jones, C McCann, J O’Connor (sub: W Elliott, 62min), A Mahon (sub: G O’Connor, 90) — A Gray, K Lafferty (sub: M Hyde, 62). Substitutes not used: McGreal, Foster. Booked: Duff, Harley, J O’Connor . NEXT Leicester City (a)
Queens Park Rangers (4-4-1-1): P Jones — M Bignot, D Stewart, M Rose, M Milanese — G Ainsworth, M Rowlands (sub: S Donnelly, 79), S Lomas (sub: R Jones, 66), L Cook — N Ward — A Czerkas (sub: M Bircham, 71). Substitues not used: J Cole, P Kanuyka. NEXT Leeds (h)
Referee: M Clattenburg. Attendance 12,190
Shots on target (h) 9 (a) 6. Fouls (h) 14 (a) 14. Offsides: (h) 2 (a) 0
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,435-2301918,00.html
Mirror 7 August 2006
TURF GUY JONES ROCKS RANGERS
Coca Cola CHAMPIONSHIP Burnley 2 QPR 0
By Scott Douglas
DEBUT boy Steve Jones continued piling on the agony for QPR at Turf Moor.
The striker netted twice on his Crewe debut four years ago against Rangers.
He then snubbed a move to the Londoners in the summer in favour of a free transfer move to Burnley.
And on Saturday he rubbed further salt into the wounds with a match-winning double against Gary Waddock's men.
Jones admitted: "I do like playing against them a lot. I scored two on my debut at Crewe against QPR and I said to my wife before the game that it would be amazing if it happened again. Lightning has struck twice for me.
"It's odd how things happen like this in football because I did have a chance to go there.
"I talked to QPR in the summer but there was too much uprooting for me and my family. Plus the fact I'm not a London boy. I don't like the bright lights and it's a different culture down there.
"I talked to seven clubs in the summer but as soon as I talked to Steve Cotterill I knew this was the place for me.
"I could have gone to Stoke and it would have taken me only 20 minutes to get there.
"But I live in Crewe and I think I might have got my house chopped up. So coming here was the perfect move for me and I'm so pleased it has started as well as this."
Jones was buzzing throughout the game - never more so than with his bizarre goal celebration after netting the 59th-minute opener.
He explained: "In Italy in pre-season we were playing a Playstation game called Buzz.
"The lads say I have a Manc accent and there is a Manc character in the game who does the celebration and the lads told me to do it if I scored."
Jones' opener arrived courtesy of some shocking QPR defending.
Alan Mahon's pass behind the visitors' backline looked too strong.
But with Kyle Lafferty and Andy Gray charging through, keeper Paul Jones fumbled the ball and it rolled out for Jones to side-foot home.
The guilty Rangers keeper said: "It took a couple of ricochets before it came through and it somehow squirmed out."
Jones could do little about the second when QPR were caught short by Mauro Milanese's sloppy pass out of defence.
Frank Sinclair intercepted and rolled the ball into Jones' path and the nippy hitman slipped away from his marker to score with a left-footed drive.
And there could have been more goals with Mahon bending a free-kick inches wide and sub Micah Hyde forcing a flying stop from Jones.
Rangers badly missed injured strikers Paul Furlong and Kevin Gallen and skipper Gareth Ainsworth said: "It's hard for us at the moment having Gallen and Furlong out. Then we play against a lad who we tried to sign and he scores two goals."
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/tm_objectid=17521417%26method=full%26siteid=94762%26headline=turf%2dguy%2djones%2drocks%2drangers%2d-name_page.html
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Monday, August 07, 2006
Sunday, August 06, 2006
WBA Comment on Shittu's Watford Choice
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Watford Official Site
Shittu opts for Hornets
WATFORD BOUND...Shittu has joined the Hornets
ALBION target Dan Shittu has turned down a move to The Hawthorns in favour of joining newly-promoted Premiership outfit Watford.
After having a £1.5million offer for the Nigerian international accepted by QPR late Thursday night, the Baggies held talks with the player on Friday.
However, Shittu has rejected Albion's offer of a long-term deal and, after subsequent discussions with Watford, who had a similar bid accepted by QPR, he has decided to join the Vicarage Road outfit.
Chairman Jeremy Peace said: "We were well aware of Watford's initial interest in the player but were told by his agent that their interest had ended.
"Therefore, we negotiated a fee for the player with QPR in good faith and reached agreement with them on Thursday night.
"We arranged for the player to travel to The Hawthorns on Friday morning.
"The player arrived at the club with his agent. He underwent a medical and was offered what we believe were very good terms over a long-term contract.
"We feel we did everything possible to secure the player.
"However, we found out during the course of our negotiations that Watford's interest had been rekindled and that the player wanted to have talks with them.
"Clearly, the lure of playing in the Premiership has influenced the player's decision."
http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10366~877750,00.html
Watford Official Site
Shittu opts for Hornets
WATFORD BOUND...Shittu has joined the Hornets
ALBION target Dan Shittu has turned down a move to The Hawthorns in favour of joining newly-promoted Premiership outfit Watford.
After having a £1.5million offer for the Nigerian international accepted by QPR late Thursday night, the Baggies held talks with the player on Friday.
However, Shittu has rejected Albion's offer of a long-term deal and, after subsequent discussions with Watford, who had a similar bid accepted by QPR, he has decided to join the Vicarage Road outfit.
Chairman Jeremy Peace said: "We were well aware of Watford's initial interest in the player but were told by his agent that their interest had ended.
"Therefore, we negotiated a fee for the player with QPR in good faith and reached agreement with them on Thursday night.
"We arranged for the player to travel to The Hawthorns on Friday morning.
"The player arrived at the club with his agent. He underwent a medical and was offered what we believe were very good terms over a long-term contract.
"We feel we did everything possible to secure the player.
"However, we found out during the course of our negotiations that Watford's interest had been rekindled and that the player wanted to have talks with them.
"Clearly, the lure of playing in the Premiership has influenced the player's decision."
http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10366~877750,00.html
Former QPR Chairman, Bill Power reportedly in Serious Plane Crash
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Updated - Swindon Official Site
CLUB STATEMENT
Further to the earlier statement, the club can now confirm the names of the club officials involved in the light aircraft crash at Denham on Saturday evening.
Swindon Town Chief Executive, Mark Devlin, Sales & Marketing Manager, Mike Sullivan, recent investor Bill Power, together with Mark's son, Stan were travelling back from the opening day fixture at Hartlepool United by plane when the aircraft came down at Denham Golf Course in Buckinghamshire just after 7pm.
The County Ground
All, together with the pilot and an un-named passenger are currently receiving treatment at Wexham Park Hospital, Slough.
http://www.swindontownfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10341~877788,00.html
Updated: BBC
Football officials on crash plane
Three senior officials of a football club were among six people on board a light aircraft that crashed on a golf course in Buckinghamshire.
The Cessna 310 came down in woods close to Denham Golf Course on Saturday.
The pilot, aged 57, was seriously injured. He was taken to hospital with four other men and a boy.
Swindon Town Football Club confirmed three officials were injured in the crash as they flew back from the first match of the season at Hartlepool.
'Sealed off'
The passengers, aged 53, 52, 45 and 43 and a 10-year-old boy, are all said to be in a stable condition.
All six injured people were taken to Wexham Park Hospital.
A Denham Airfield spokesman said the plane crashed near the airfield at about 1900 BST on Saturday.
A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said members of the public had reported a twin-engine aircraft going down in a wooded area of the golf course.
Air accident investigators have been examining the wreckage of the aircraft and the site remained sealed off on Sunday
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/beds/bucks/herts/5250344.stm
It's been reported on the various messageboards.
http://www.websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/qprlsa/vpost?id=1295502
http://www.qpr.org/forum/viewtopic.php?topic_view=threads&p=244451&t=82747
SWINDON OFFICIAL STATEMENT
windon Town FC can confirm that three high-profile members of the club were involved in a light aircraft incident on Saturday evening.
The three club officials were travelling back from the opening day fixture at Hartlepool United by plane when the aircraft came down at Denham Golf Course in Buckinghamshire just after 7pm.
The County Ground
The pilot, four other men aged 53, 52, 45 and 43 and a 10-year-old boy were taken to Wexham Park Hospital.
Whilst injuries have been sustained, none are thought to be life threatening and a further update will be issued as soon as more details become available
http://www.swindontownfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10341~877788,00.html
Updated - Swindon Official Site
CLUB STATEMENT
Further to the earlier statement, the club can now confirm the names of the club officials involved in the light aircraft crash at Denham on Saturday evening.
Swindon Town Chief Executive, Mark Devlin, Sales & Marketing Manager, Mike Sullivan, recent investor Bill Power, together with Mark's son, Stan were travelling back from the opening day fixture at Hartlepool United by plane when the aircraft came down at Denham Golf Course in Buckinghamshire just after 7pm.
The County Ground
All, together with the pilot and an un-named passenger are currently receiving treatment at Wexham Park Hospital, Slough.
http://www.swindontownfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10341~877788,00.html
Updated: BBC
Football officials on crash plane
Three senior officials of a football club were among six people on board a light aircraft that crashed on a golf course in Buckinghamshire.
The Cessna 310 came down in woods close to Denham Golf Course on Saturday.
The pilot, aged 57, was seriously injured. He was taken to hospital with four other men and a boy.
Swindon Town Football Club confirmed three officials were injured in the crash as they flew back from the first match of the season at Hartlepool.
'Sealed off'
The passengers, aged 53, 52, 45 and 43 and a 10-year-old boy, are all said to be in a stable condition.
All six injured people were taken to Wexham Park Hospital.
A Denham Airfield spokesman said the plane crashed near the airfield at about 1900 BST on Saturday.
A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said members of the public had reported a twin-engine aircraft going down in a wooded area of the golf course.
Air accident investigators have been examining the wreckage of the aircraft and the site remained sealed off on Sunday
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/beds/bucks/herts/5250344.stm
It's been reported on the various messageboards.
http://www.websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/qprlsa/vpost?id=1295502
http://www.qpr.org/forum/viewtopic.php?topic_view=threads&p=244451&t=82747
SWINDON OFFICIAL STATEMENT
windon Town FC can confirm that three high-profile members of the club were involved in a light aircraft incident on Saturday evening.
The three club officials were travelling back from the opening day fixture at Hartlepool United by plane when the aircraft came down at Denham Golf Course in Buckinghamshire just after 7pm.
The County Ground
The pilot, four other men aged 53, 52, 45 and 43 and a 10-year-old boy were taken to Wexham Park Hospital.
Whilst injuries have been sustained, none are thought to be life threatening and a further update will be issued as soon as more details become available
http://www.swindontownfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10341~877788,00.html
An Eventful Week for QPR as Chairman Paladini Lambasts Some Fans and Reveals a Plot
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NB: Update: And then after writing/posting this, came the news of the plane crash involving former Chairman Bill Power, and apparently also Mark Devlin and his son. As of this writing, all were fairly badly injured but are alive.
Even for the last week prior to the start of the new season, it's been an eventful one for QPR and for Chairman Gianni Paladini.
The week started with the team having returned from their two-match trip to Italy and ended with QPR recovering from an opening 0-2 defeat at Burnley (with both goals coming from Burnley's new forward, who QPR themselves tried to sign.
Almost all punsters have predicted a season of intense struggle for QPR, with several tipping QPR for relegation. And QPR target, Stoke's Carl Henry joined Wolves. And during the week, QPR's center back Ian Evatt joined Blackpool on a six months loan.
For much of the week, there have been reports about Center half, Danny Shittu's transfer, with Paladini repeatedly declaring that the fee was 3 million pounds. By the end of the week, Shittu looked set for West Bromwich Albion as the two clubs agreed terms...A couple of days later, Shittu's signing was announced by Watford. The fee 1.6 million pounds up front. It could move up to 3 million, depending of appearances and Watford success. If there's a sell-on clause, it hasn't yet been revealed.
But perhaps the most noteworthy incident this week was the fan rumours that the training ground had been closed. A couple of newspapers reported on this asserted closing including the Daily Miror.
And then the club issued a couple of statements: One statement strongly criticizing the papers' reporting and another by Chairman Paladini making some very strong charges
And then the week came to an end with an interview in the Sunday Mirror with the Chairman in the in which he made some additional assertions about some unspecified fans...and also of a alleged threat to kill him.
So in his statement published on the QPR Official Site, Paladini among other things said:
"....It is frustrating that, despite all the hard work everyone has been doing during pre-season, a tiny minority of people seem intent on damaging team morale and destroying the Club in the run up to our important first game.
"Not only have they once again invented wholly false rumours about the state of the Club, but unfortunately a couple of journalists with a record of writing stories against QPR, and with links to some of the individuals intent on destabilising the Club, have blown up these rumours and made up stories from nothing.
"Last week it was suggested in some of the press that we were putting QPR up for sale. Unfortunately the journalists responsible for this story failed to even check the official statement from Antonio Caliendo, Chairman of Holdings, on the Club's official website, making clear the Board's continued commitment to QPR....
"The Club is in a better financial position than it has been in for a number of years. Things are still tough, but we have reduced the annual debt by millions and intend to reduce it further. Yet ridiculous rumours still seem to be invented by a few people for reasons beyond me.
"The latest is the absurd rumour suggested on a message board that the players were locked out of the Harlington training ground, when in fact Gary Waddock had just given them the day off as they had only recently arrived back from a busy schedule in Italy.
"The same newspaper that had to apologise for a series of inaccurate stories about me last season, the Evening Standard, then chose to repeat this wholly false rumour as fact without even checking with me, the coaching staff, or even Imperial College - the owners of the training ground.
"In an article by a journalist named Wayne Vesey, under the headline 'Locked-out Rangers are unable to train' the Standard claimed that the Club was locked out of the training ground on Monday. Such a clearly false statement damages the reputation of the Club, and the morale of the players and supporters. I have been advised it is libellous and our lawyers will be contacting the Standard immediately to demand a retraction.
"QPR fans will ask themselves why should people invent such rumours? The purpose can only be to destabilise the Club and to injure the morale of players and fans just days before the season kicks off. The Club will not allow another season to be derailed by these people.
"The Board, Gary Waddock and the coaching staff, and the players and other members of staff, are all united in our focus to move this great club forward and to achieve success this season on the pitch. We believe we have the squad and the resources to do so. We will not allow a tiny group of people, driven by an agenda that has nothing to do with football, to destroy this Club.
"I urge all fans to treat such rumour-mongers with the contempt and scepticism they deserve. They have been claiming we would go into administration every week for the past year, and they never admit they are wrong when we don't.
"They claimed we were locked out of the training ground before and even that the groundsmen would not cut the grass at the stadium. They predicted we would spend all the Club's money on agents' fees when we have spent less than nearly any other club in this division. They predicted we would sell off Loftus Road and all our best players because we could not afford their wages.
"Just yesterday they claimed we were locked out of the training ground because we could not afford the rent; but today, as scheduled, our players are training at the training ground. On each and every occasion their rumours have been proven false.
"As I believe you say in England, when someone cries wolf so many times, people stop listening. But every time the rumour-mongers are proven wrong they invent another rumour, so desperate to be proven right and for the Club to fail.
"For the last time I say to those who's criticism of the Board has developed into an agenda to undermine the Club, if you know of a better alternative to take QPR forward with the necessary funding to support it, then please let us know. Otherwise stop pursuing a divisive and destructive agenda. The Board, the players and staff and the thousands of fans of QPR will not allow a small selfish group to ruin the season for the rest of us.... " http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~875457,00.html
And in his Sunday Mirror Interview, Paladini was reported as saying:
Sunday Mirror 6 August 2006
LIVING IN FEAR -Contract killer threat forces QPR chairman to wear a bullet-proof vest GIANNI PALADINI EXCLUSIVE Anthony Clavane
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini is living in fear after a contract was legedly put out on his life. Following advice by the police, the controversial Rangers chief now has to wear a bullet-proof vest.
In an exclusive interview with Sunday Mirror Sport, Paladini hit out at fans opposed to his regime at Loftus Road, calling them the "enemy within".
Paladini said: "I find it incredible what's going on here. You have to fight against so many things. This must be the only club where the fans love to put s**t on their own club on the website."
Two weeks ago, a group of men were cleared of forcing Paladini to resign at gunpoint during a match against Sheffield United. The Italian tycoon claimed he was surrounded by hired thugs, punched and slapped, and then warned he'd be killed if he refused to sign a letter of resignation.
But a judge threw out the case against the men. There is no suggestion that any of those men are involved in the alleged contract on Paladini....
Ever since Paladini became a director of the debt-ridden Championship club he has faced hostile criticism from a section of supporters.
The Italian tycoon was furious to discover an attempt to sabotage an interview with him on the QPR website after he returned from the R's pre-season tour of his home country. He said: "I went mad. It's been cancelled now. They're trying to wind me up. I give up, I really do. I nearly got a heart attack when I saw it. "They put the face of a fan up there, somebody is stirring things up.
"Sometimes I wonder why I got myself involved in this situation. Whatever you do, you can't win. Even if you win the league and get promoted, you'll still have people who criticise.
"I feel like a dartboard. People are always throwing darts at me.
"We have an enemy within. What kind of people do these things? How can you be a QPR fan when you put this s**t in?"
Paladini also suspected foul play when one newspaper reported last week that Rangers players were turned away from their training ground because the rent had not been paid.
He blasted: "This did not happen. I have a statement showing we paid Imperial College, who we rent the ground from, £32,250 on 18 July. How can they shut it for non-payment two weeks after paying the rent? It's insane.
"There were people from a QPR fan group outside the training ground at 7.20am, putting it out that the players had been locked out. "But people were asleep at that time. The players didn't go in until 10am.
"They put out so much s**t, so much rubbish, that I just give up.
"Since I've come here there's been problem after problem after problem but now, thank God, it's all left behind. Now we will only concentrate on the football and take this club forward.
"With the players we've brought in and the new manager, Gary Waddock, we're looking forward to an exciting season.
"We've reduced the average age of the team and we've brought in players to give us stability for the next two or three years.
"It's been a very difficult time. But it's business as usual. I just carry on doing my job.
"In this game you need a lot of money. When I came here we were losing more than £500,000 a year but, by the end of next season, we should be out of debt.
"I'm lucky that the people with me they are prepared to put in money. This month, to pay the wages, they had to put in more money."
When I came here we got promoted and we've been two years in the Championship. Look at clubs like Birmingham, who spend eight or nine million, or Wolves, Coventry, Leeds. "They spend a fortune every year. They are on a very different level to us.
"Fortunately I've been involved in foot ball for the last 30 years and it's helped me a lot, because I1 can get certain players in."
http://www.sundaymirror.co.uk/sport/football/tm_objectid=17519942%26method=full%26siteid=62484-name_page.html
NB: Update: And then after writing/posting this, came the news of the plane crash involving former Chairman Bill Power, and apparently also Mark Devlin and his son. As of this writing, all were fairly badly injured but are alive.
Even for the last week prior to the start of the new season, it's been an eventful one for QPR and for Chairman Gianni Paladini.
The week started with the team having returned from their two-match trip to Italy and ended with QPR recovering from an opening 0-2 defeat at Burnley (with both goals coming from Burnley's new forward, who QPR themselves tried to sign.
Almost all punsters have predicted a season of intense struggle for QPR, with several tipping QPR for relegation. And QPR target, Stoke's Carl Henry joined Wolves. And during the week, QPR's center back Ian Evatt joined Blackpool on a six months loan.
For much of the week, there have been reports about Center half, Danny Shittu's transfer, with Paladini repeatedly declaring that the fee was 3 million pounds. By the end of the week, Shittu looked set for West Bromwich Albion as the two clubs agreed terms...A couple of days later, Shittu's signing was announced by Watford. The fee 1.6 million pounds up front. It could move up to 3 million, depending of appearances and Watford success. If there's a sell-on clause, it hasn't yet been revealed.
But perhaps the most noteworthy incident this week was the fan rumours that the training ground had been closed. A couple of newspapers reported on this asserted closing including the Daily Miror.
And then the club issued a couple of statements: One statement strongly criticizing the papers' reporting and another by Chairman Paladini making some very strong charges
And then the week came to an end with an interview in the Sunday Mirror with the Chairman in the in which he made some additional assertions about some unspecified fans...and also of a alleged threat to kill him.
So in his statement published on the QPR Official Site, Paladini among other things said:
"....It is frustrating that, despite all the hard work everyone has been doing during pre-season, a tiny minority of people seem intent on damaging team morale and destroying the Club in the run up to our important first game.
"Not only have they once again invented wholly false rumours about the state of the Club, but unfortunately a couple of journalists with a record of writing stories against QPR, and with links to some of the individuals intent on destabilising the Club, have blown up these rumours and made up stories from nothing.
"Last week it was suggested in some of the press that we were putting QPR up for sale. Unfortunately the journalists responsible for this story failed to even check the official statement from Antonio Caliendo, Chairman of Holdings, on the Club's official website, making clear the Board's continued commitment to QPR....
"The Club is in a better financial position than it has been in for a number of years. Things are still tough, but we have reduced the annual debt by millions and intend to reduce it further. Yet ridiculous rumours still seem to be invented by a few people for reasons beyond me.
"The latest is the absurd rumour suggested on a message board that the players were locked out of the Harlington training ground, when in fact Gary Waddock had just given them the day off as they had only recently arrived back from a busy schedule in Italy.
"The same newspaper that had to apologise for a series of inaccurate stories about me last season, the Evening Standard, then chose to repeat this wholly false rumour as fact without even checking with me, the coaching staff, or even Imperial College - the owners of the training ground.
"In an article by a journalist named Wayne Vesey, under the headline 'Locked-out Rangers are unable to train' the Standard claimed that the Club was locked out of the training ground on Monday. Such a clearly false statement damages the reputation of the Club, and the morale of the players and supporters. I have been advised it is libellous and our lawyers will be contacting the Standard immediately to demand a retraction.
"QPR fans will ask themselves why should people invent such rumours? The purpose can only be to destabilise the Club and to injure the morale of players and fans just days before the season kicks off. The Club will not allow another season to be derailed by these people.
"The Board, Gary Waddock and the coaching staff, and the players and other members of staff, are all united in our focus to move this great club forward and to achieve success this season on the pitch. We believe we have the squad and the resources to do so. We will not allow a tiny group of people, driven by an agenda that has nothing to do with football, to destroy this Club.
"I urge all fans to treat such rumour-mongers with the contempt and scepticism they deserve. They have been claiming we would go into administration every week for the past year, and they never admit they are wrong when we don't.
"They claimed we were locked out of the training ground before and even that the groundsmen would not cut the grass at the stadium. They predicted we would spend all the Club's money on agents' fees when we have spent less than nearly any other club in this division. They predicted we would sell off Loftus Road and all our best players because we could not afford their wages.
"Just yesterday they claimed we were locked out of the training ground because we could not afford the rent; but today, as scheduled, our players are training at the training ground. On each and every occasion their rumours have been proven false.
"As I believe you say in England, when someone cries wolf so many times, people stop listening. But every time the rumour-mongers are proven wrong they invent another rumour, so desperate to be proven right and for the Club to fail.
"For the last time I say to those who's criticism of the Board has developed into an agenda to undermine the Club, if you know of a better alternative to take QPR forward with the necessary funding to support it, then please let us know. Otherwise stop pursuing a divisive and destructive agenda. The Board, the players and staff and the thousands of fans of QPR will not allow a small selfish group to ruin the season for the rest of us.... " http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~875457,00.html
And in his Sunday Mirror Interview, Paladini was reported as saying:
Sunday Mirror 6 August 2006
LIVING IN FEAR -Contract killer threat forces QPR chairman to wear a bullet-proof vest GIANNI PALADINI EXCLUSIVE Anthony Clavane
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini is living in fear after a contract was legedly put out on his life. Following advice by the police, the controversial Rangers chief now has to wear a bullet-proof vest.
In an exclusive interview with Sunday Mirror Sport, Paladini hit out at fans opposed to his regime at Loftus Road, calling them the "enemy within".
Paladini said: "I find it incredible what's going on here. You have to fight against so many things. This must be the only club where the fans love to put s**t on their own club on the website."
Two weeks ago, a group of men were cleared of forcing Paladini to resign at gunpoint during a match against Sheffield United. The Italian tycoon claimed he was surrounded by hired thugs, punched and slapped, and then warned he'd be killed if he refused to sign a letter of resignation.
But a judge threw out the case against the men. There is no suggestion that any of those men are involved in the alleged contract on Paladini....
Ever since Paladini became a director of the debt-ridden Championship club he has faced hostile criticism from a section of supporters.
The Italian tycoon was furious to discover an attempt to sabotage an interview with him on the QPR website after he returned from the R's pre-season tour of his home country. He said: "I went mad. It's been cancelled now. They're trying to wind me up. I give up, I really do. I nearly got a heart attack when I saw it. "They put the face of a fan up there, somebody is stirring things up.
"Sometimes I wonder why I got myself involved in this situation. Whatever you do, you can't win. Even if you win the league and get promoted, you'll still have people who criticise.
"I feel like a dartboard. People are always throwing darts at me.
"We have an enemy within. What kind of people do these things? How can you be a QPR fan when you put this s**t in?"
Paladini also suspected foul play when one newspaper reported last week that Rangers players were turned away from their training ground because the rent had not been paid.
He blasted: "This did not happen. I have a statement showing we paid Imperial College, who we rent the ground from, £32,250 on 18 July. How can they shut it for non-payment two weeks after paying the rent? It's insane.
"There were people from a QPR fan group outside the training ground at 7.20am, putting it out that the players had been locked out. "But people were asleep at that time. The players didn't go in until 10am.
"They put out so much s**t, so much rubbish, that I just give up.
"Since I've come here there's been problem after problem after problem but now, thank God, it's all left behind. Now we will only concentrate on the football and take this club forward.
"With the players we've brought in and the new manager, Gary Waddock, we're looking forward to an exciting season.
"We've reduced the average age of the team and we've brought in players to give us stability for the next two or three years.
"It's been a very difficult time. But it's business as usual. I just carry on doing my job.
"In this game you need a lot of money. When I came here we were losing more than £500,000 a year but, by the end of next season, we should be out of debt.
"I'm lucky that the people with me they are prepared to put in money. This month, to pay the wages, they had to put in more money."
When I came here we got promoted and we've been two years in the Championship. Look at clubs like Birmingham, who spend eight or nine million, or Wolves, Coventry, Leeds. "They spend a fortune every year. They are on a very different level to us.
"Fortunately I've been involved in foot ball for the last 30 years and it's helped me a lot, because I1 can get certain players in."
http://www.sundaymirror.co.uk/sport/football/tm_objectid=17519942%26method=full%26siteid=62484-name_page.html
Burnley's Scorer Jonah Jones - Reminder How Dario Gradi Thwarted Holloway's Transfer Effort
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Jonah price doubled for QPR boss Feb 1 2006
Crewe Chronicle
DARIO Gradi is still seething at QPR's public interest in Steve Jones, and insists they would have pay double the price.
Ian Holloway went public about his admiration for the Northern Ireland international, but Gradi raged: 'I wasn't happy with the way Holloway blurted everything out the way he did. Therefore, I wouldn't do business with QPR if I could possibly avoid it.
'They usually do their business through the papers. Whatever cash we would accept from other clubs, I would want double from them.'
He added: 'I expect Steve to be here until the end of the season. But we can't better the contract we offered him, so he will go where he wants in the summer.'
Stoke City are one of a number of clubs who have enquired about the 29-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer, but no bids have been received.
http://iccheshireonline.icnetwork.co.uk/crewealexandra/news/tm_objectid=16652871%26method=full%26siteid=50020%26headline=jonah%2dprice%2ddoubled%2dfor%2dqpr%2dboss%2d-name_page.html
Gradi slams Holloway
Sky Sports - By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 19 Jan 2006
Crewe boss Dario Gradi has slammed QPR manager Ian Holloway for discussing the future of one of his players with the media.
Holloway has claimed that Crewe are asking too much money for striker Steve Jones, whose contract expires in June.
"There are just some situations where players are out of contract in the summer and at the moment their clubs are asking for ridiculous fees," Holloway commented.
"We spoke to Crewe about the possibility of signing Steve Jones and they were asking for £300,000 when he is out of contract in six months time, on a free. That is just bad business."
The outspoken Gradi has hit back strongly though, telling Holloway that he has no right to talk about Jones.
"He is out of order to be speaking about my players because it is none of his business," Gradi told Crewe's official website.
"A few people have spoken to me about Steve Jones but it's ridiculous what some clubs are trying to do."
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=355307&plid=10097&clid=51&cpid=10
See ALso: http://www.qpr-mad.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=262963
Jonah price doubled for QPR boss Feb 1 2006
Crewe Chronicle
DARIO Gradi is still seething at QPR's public interest in Steve Jones, and insists they would have pay double the price.
Ian Holloway went public about his admiration for the Northern Ireland international, but Gradi raged: 'I wasn't happy with the way Holloway blurted everything out the way he did. Therefore, I wouldn't do business with QPR if I could possibly avoid it.
'They usually do their business through the papers. Whatever cash we would accept from other clubs, I would want double from them.'
He added: 'I expect Steve to be here until the end of the season. But we can't better the contract we offered him, so he will go where he wants in the summer.'
Stoke City are one of a number of clubs who have enquired about the 29-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer, but no bids have been received.
http://iccheshireonline.icnetwork.co.uk/crewealexandra/news/tm_objectid=16652871%26method=full%26siteid=50020%26headline=jonah%2dprice%2ddoubled%2dfor%2dqpr%2dboss%2d-name_page.html
Gradi slams Holloway
Sky Sports - By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 19 Jan 2006
Crewe boss Dario Gradi has slammed QPR manager Ian Holloway for discussing the future of one of his players with the media.
Holloway has claimed that Crewe are asking too much money for striker Steve Jones, whose contract expires in June.
"There are just some situations where players are out of contract in the summer and at the moment their clubs are asking for ridiculous fees," Holloway commented.
"We spoke to Crewe about the possibility of signing Steve Jones and they were asking for £300,000 when he is out of contract in six months time, on a free. That is just bad business."
The outspoken Gradi has hit back strongly though, telling Holloway that he has no right to talk about Jones.
"He is out of order to be speaking about my players because it is none of his business," Gradi told Crewe's official website.
"A few people have spoken to me about Steve Jones but it's ridiculous what some clubs are trying to do."
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=355307&plid=10097&clid=51&cpid=10
See ALso: http://www.qpr-mad.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=262963
QPR Defender Danny Shittu Joins Watford
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BBC - Watford bag Shittu from Rangers
"...Watford have signed QPR defender Danny Shittu for an initial fee of £1.6m.
The 25-year-old had looked to be heading for West Bromwich Albion after Rangers accepted a £1.5m offer. But the Hornets scuppered West Brom's plans, signing the Nigerian international on a three-year contract in a deal that could rise to £3m.
"We're signing another player who fits the Watford way, hungry to learn and to prove his worth at the very top level," said Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd..."
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/w/watford/5250308.stm
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SHITTU HORNETTED
Dan Shittu has today signed for Watford after the Hornets made an improved offer for the Rangers defender.
The verbal agreement QPR had previously reached with West Bromwich Albion on Thursday was sidelined after Watford presented an offer which couldn't be ignored.
QPR will now see an improved sum up front as soon as Shittu makes the short journey to Hertfordshire, plus further potential earnings subject to various criteria being fulfilled.
The terms and conditions of further revenue generators, which incorporate appearances and future Watford success, were also an improvement on the initial offer that the Baggies had put on the table.
The lure of Premiership football and the fact Shittu would now no longer have to relocate was also too tempting for the defender to turn down.
Shittu's contract will see him stay at Vicarage Road for the next three seasons and he will be eligible to play in Tuesday night's game against Inter Milan.
Shittu signed for QPR in January 2001 from Charlton Athletic for an initial fee of £250,000, after spending two months on loan at Loftus Road.
Since his move to Loftus Road, Shittu made 172 appearances and netted 16 goals for the Superhoops.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~877736,00.html
WATFORD OFFICIAL SITE
DANNY DEAL CONFIRMED
WATFORD have today (Sunday) completed the signing of central defender Danny Shittu from Queens Park Rangers for an initial fee of £1.6m.
Danny Shittu
The 25-year-old completed formalities late last night, penning a deal that will see him stay at Vicarage Road for the next three seasons.
Shittu sat out the Hoops' seasonal opener at Burnley yesterday having previously made nearly 200 appearances for the Loftus Road outfit.
And a delighted Hornets' boss Aidy Boothroyd hailed the signing of Shittu as a major stepping-stone in his Premiership preparations.
"In Danny we're signing another player who fits the Watford way - hungry to learn, and eager to prove his worth at the very, very top level against the best.
"He is somebody that we have been chasing for some time and I'm pleased that he will now have the chance to fight for a place along with the other excellent centre-halves we have at the club."
Shittu will now link up with his new team mates and will be available for Tuesday night's high-profile friendly with Inter Milan.
The Hornets could pay up to a further £1.4m for the Nigerian international depending on appearances and further Watford successes.
Shittu was subject to a £1.5m bid earlier this week by Championship side West Bromwich Albion, but Watford subsequently had there slightly improved offer accepted by QPR Chairman Gianni Paladin
http://www.watfordfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10400~877379,00.html?ptvParm=
BBC - Watford bag Shittu from Rangers
"...Watford have signed QPR defender Danny Shittu for an initial fee of £1.6m.
The 25-year-old had looked to be heading for West Bromwich Albion after Rangers accepted a £1.5m offer. But the Hornets scuppered West Brom's plans, signing the Nigerian international on a three-year contract in a deal that could rise to £3m.
"We're signing another player who fits the Watford way, hungry to learn and to prove his worth at the very top level," said Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd..."
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/w/watford/5250308.stm
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SHITTU HORNETTED
Dan Shittu has today signed for Watford after the Hornets made an improved offer for the Rangers defender.
The verbal agreement QPR had previously reached with West Bromwich Albion on Thursday was sidelined after Watford presented an offer which couldn't be ignored.
QPR will now see an improved sum up front as soon as Shittu makes the short journey to Hertfordshire, plus further potential earnings subject to various criteria being fulfilled.
The terms and conditions of further revenue generators, which incorporate appearances and future Watford success, were also an improvement on the initial offer that the Baggies had put on the table.
The lure of Premiership football and the fact Shittu would now no longer have to relocate was also too tempting for the defender to turn down.
Shittu's contract will see him stay at Vicarage Road for the next three seasons and he will be eligible to play in Tuesday night's game against Inter Milan.
Shittu signed for QPR in January 2001 from Charlton Athletic for an initial fee of £250,000, after spending two months on loan at Loftus Road.
Since his move to Loftus Road, Shittu made 172 appearances and netted 16 goals for the Superhoops.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~877736,00.html
WATFORD OFFICIAL SITE
DANNY DEAL CONFIRMED
WATFORD have today (Sunday) completed the signing of central defender Danny Shittu from Queens Park Rangers for an initial fee of £1.6m.
Danny Shittu
The 25-year-old completed formalities late last night, penning a deal that will see him stay at Vicarage Road for the next three seasons.
Shittu sat out the Hoops' seasonal opener at Burnley yesterday having previously made nearly 200 appearances for the Loftus Road outfit.
And a delighted Hornets' boss Aidy Boothroyd hailed the signing of Shittu as a major stepping-stone in his Premiership preparations.
"In Danny we're signing another player who fits the Watford way - hungry to learn, and eager to prove his worth at the very, very top level against the best.
"He is somebody that we have been chasing for some time and I'm pleased that he will now have the chance to fight for a place along with the other excellent centre-halves we have at the club."
Shittu will now link up with his new team mates and will be available for Tuesday night's high-profile friendly with Inter Milan.
The Hornets could pay up to a further £1.4m for the Nigerian international depending on appearances and further Watford successes.
Shittu was subject to a £1.5m bid earlier this week by Championship side West Bromwich Albion, but Watford subsequently had there slightly improved offer accepted by QPR Chairman Gianni Paladin
http://www.watfordfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10400~877379,00.html?ptvParm=
QPR Chairman Paladini: "Living in Fear...Bullet Proof vest...Enemy Within"
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Sunday Mirror 6 August 2006
LIVING IN FEAR
Contract killer threat forces QPR chairman to wear a bullet-proof vest GIANNI PALADINI EXCLUSIVE
Anthony Clavane
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini is living in fear after a contract was legedly put out on his life.
Following advice by the police, the controversial Rangers chief now has to wear a bullet-proof vest.
In an exclusive interview with Sunday Mirror Sport, Paladini hit out at fans opposed to his regime at Loftus Road, calling them the "enemy within".
Paladini said: "I find it incredible what's going on here. You have to fight against so many things. This must be the only club where the fans love to put s**t on their own club on the website."
Two weeks ago, a group of men were cleared of forcing Paladini to resign at gunpoint during a match against Sheffield United.
The Italian tycoon claimed he was surrounded by hired thugs, punched and slapped, and then warned he'd be killed if he refused to sign a letter of resignation.
But a judge threw out the case against the men. There is no suggestion that any of those men are involved in the alleged contract on Paladini.
Former agent Paladini invested £600,000 in the West London outfit in March 2004 and was initially employed as a consultant to bring in players.
Last year he ousted Bill Power as QPR chairman, removed chief executive Mark Devlin and claimed victory in a bitter struggle for control of the club.
But one of his strongest allies, former Brazil skipper Carlos Dunga, resigned from the board last week after his shock appointment as his country's new national coach.
Ever since Paladini became a director of the debt-ridden Championship club he has faced hostile criticism from a section of supporters.
The Italian tycoon was furious to discover an attempt to sabotage an interview with him on the QPR website after he returned from the R's pre-season tour of his home country.
He said: "I went mad. It's been cancelled now. They're trying to wind me up. I give up, I really do. I nearly got a heart attack when I saw it.
"They put the face of a fan up there, somebody is stirring things up.
"Sometimes I wonder why I got myself involved in this situation. Whatever you do, you can't win. Even if you win the league and get promoted, you'll still have people who criticise.
"I feel like a dartboard. People are always throwing darts at me.
"We have an enemy within. What kind of people do these things? How can you be a QPR fan when you put this s**t in?"
Paladini also suspected foul play when one newspaper reported last week that Rangers players were turned away from their training ground because the rent had not been paid.
He blasted: "This did not happen. I have a statement showing we paid Imperial College, who we rent the ground from, £32,250 on 18 July. How can they shut it for non-payment two weeks after paying the rent? It's insane.
"There were people from a QPR fan group outside the training ground at 7.20am, putting it out that the players had been locked out.
"But people were asleep at that time. The players didn't go in until 10am.
"They put out so much s**t, so much rubbish, that I just give up.
"Since I've come here there's been problem after problem after problem but now, thank God, it's all left behind. Now we will only concentrate on the football and take this club forward.
"With the players we've brought in and the new manager, Gary Waddock, we're looking forward to an exciting season.
"We've reduced the average age of the team and we've brought in players to give us stability for the next two or three years.
"It's been a very difficult time. But it's business as usual. I just carry on doing my job.
"In this game you need a lot of money. When I came here we were losing more than £500,000 a year but, by the end of next season, we should be out of debt.
"I'm lucky that the people with me they are prepared to put in money. This month, to pay the wages, they had to put in more money."
"When I came here we got promoted and we've been two years in the Championship. Look at clubs like Birmingham, who spend eight or nine million, or Wolves, Coventry, Leeds.
"They spend a fortune every year. They are on a very different level to us.
"Fortunately I've been involved in foot ball for the last 30 years and it's helped me a lot, because I1 can get certain players in."
http://www.sundaymirror.co.uk/sport/football/tm_objectid=17519942%26method=full%26siteid=62484-name_page.html
Sunday Mirror 6 August 2006
LIVING IN FEAR
Contract killer threat forces QPR chairman to wear a bullet-proof vest GIANNI PALADINI EXCLUSIVE
Anthony Clavane
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini is living in fear after a contract was legedly put out on his life.
Following advice by the police, the controversial Rangers chief now has to wear a bullet-proof vest.
In an exclusive interview with Sunday Mirror Sport, Paladini hit out at fans opposed to his regime at Loftus Road, calling them the "enemy within".
Paladini said: "I find it incredible what's going on here. You have to fight against so many things. This must be the only club where the fans love to put s**t on their own club on the website."
Two weeks ago, a group of men were cleared of forcing Paladini to resign at gunpoint during a match against Sheffield United.
The Italian tycoon claimed he was surrounded by hired thugs, punched and slapped, and then warned he'd be killed if he refused to sign a letter of resignation.
But a judge threw out the case against the men. There is no suggestion that any of those men are involved in the alleged contract on Paladini.
Former agent Paladini invested £600,000 in the West London outfit in March 2004 and was initially employed as a consultant to bring in players.
Last year he ousted Bill Power as QPR chairman, removed chief executive Mark Devlin and claimed victory in a bitter struggle for control of the club.
But one of his strongest allies, former Brazil skipper Carlos Dunga, resigned from the board last week after his shock appointment as his country's new national coach.
Ever since Paladini became a director of the debt-ridden Championship club he has faced hostile criticism from a section of supporters.
The Italian tycoon was furious to discover an attempt to sabotage an interview with him on the QPR website after he returned from the R's pre-season tour of his home country.
He said: "I went mad. It's been cancelled now. They're trying to wind me up. I give up, I really do. I nearly got a heart attack when I saw it.
"They put the face of a fan up there, somebody is stirring things up.
"Sometimes I wonder why I got myself involved in this situation. Whatever you do, you can't win. Even if you win the league and get promoted, you'll still have people who criticise.
"I feel like a dartboard. People are always throwing darts at me.
"We have an enemy within. What kind of people do these things? How can you be a QPR fan when you put this s**t in?"
Paladini also suspected foul play when one newspaper reported last week that Rangers players were turned away from their training ground because the rent had not been paid.
He blasted: "This did not happen. I have a statement showing we paid Imperial College, who we rent the ground from, £32,250 on 18 July. How can they shut it for non-payment two weeks after paying the rent? It's insane.
"There were people from a QPR fan group outside the training ground at 7.20am, putting it out that the players had been locked out.
"But people were asleep at that time. The players didn't go in until 10am.
"They put out so much s**t, so much rubbish, that I just give up.
"Since I've come here there's been problem after problem after problem but now, thank God, it's all left behind. Now we will only concentrate on the football and take this club forward.
"With the players we've brought in and the new manager, Gary Waddock, we're looking forward to an exciting season.
"We've reduced the average age of the team and we've brought in players to give us stability for the next two or three years.
"It's been a very difficult time. But it's business as usual. I just carry on doing my job.
"In this game you need a lot of money. When I came here we were losing more than £500,000 a year but, by the end of next season, we should be out of debt.
"I'm lucky that the people with me they are prepared to put in money. This month, to pay the wages, they had to put in more money."
"When I came here we got promoted and we've been two years in the Championship. Look at clubs like Birmingham, who spend eight or nine million, or Wolves, Coventry, Leeds.
"They spend a fortune every year. They are on a very different level to us.
"Fortunately I've been involved in foot ball for the last 30 years and it's helped me a lot, because I1 can get certain players in."
http://www.sundaymirror.co.uk/sport/football/tm_objectid=17519942%26method=full%26siteid=62484-name_page.html
Burnley 2 QPR 0 -Further Match Reports & Comments
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[Oh for the days of the early-to-mid 1970s -when QPR and Burnley were the top two teams in (the old) Division 2...QPR signing Dave Thomas from Burnley for a record fee...The two teams being among the brightest "smaller teams" in (the old) Division One...]
The Sunday Times August 06, 2006
Burnley 2 QPR 0: Jones double sinks QPR
Neil Johnston at Turf Moor
IT HAS BEEN a summer of change at Queens Park Rangers but it already looks like being a winter of discontent after Gary Waddock’s reign began with a comprehensive defeat.
Steve Jones, Burnley’s summer signing from Crewe, left Waddock wondering whether he was right to accept the manager’s job last month after capping a fine debut with two excellent second-half finishes. It completed a bad day for Waddock, who revealed afterwards that he tried to sign Jones but failed to lure the Northern Ireland international because he did not want to uproot his family from Cheshire.
“Jones is someone I wanted and he showed his quality with the goals he scored,” Waddock said. “A lot of clubs were after him and we were one of them. We got as far as talking but that was it.”
Since losing to champions Reading on the final day of last season, Rangers have appointed a new manager, brought in a new backroom team and signed five players. Yet it was the same old story as Rangers fell victim to Jones’s outstanding performance. He side-footed his team into a 59th-minute lead before unleashing a left-footed finish 10 minutes later to send Burnley, tipped for a season of struggle, to the top of the table.
“I’m going to go home and freeze Teletext,” Steve Cotterill, the Burnley manager, said after his side’s thoroughly deserved victory. “Jones does hit the ball well and his second goal was fantastic.”
Star Man: Steve Jones (Burnley)
Player ratings: Burnley: Jensen 7, Sinclair 7, Thomas 7, Duff 7, Harley 7, S Jones 8, McCann 7, J O'Connor 7 (Elliott 62mins, 6), Mahon 8 (O’Connor 90min, 5), Gray 6, Lafferty 6 (Hyde 62min, 6)
QPR: P Jones 6, Bignot 5, Rose 5, Stewart 5, Milanese 5, Lomas 5 (R Jones 66min, 5), Ainsworth 5, Rowlands 6 (Donnelly 79min, 5), Ward 5, Cook 5, Czerkas 5 (Bircham 71mins, 5)
Scorers: Burnley: S Jones 59, 69
Referee: M Clattenburg
Attendance: 12,190
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2093-2300918,00.html
Burnley Official Site
Gaffer: You Can't Do Much More Than Win Your First Game
Beaming Burnley boss Steve Cotterill was a happy man after a 2-0 victory over QPR got the season off to a winning start.
The Clarets went top of the fledgling Championship after two goals from Steve Jones sunk Rangers at Turf Moor.
And the gaffer admitted: "I am very pleased. The first game of the season is always an awkward one because you don't get to see other teams in pre-season.
"That makes it a lottery, but you can't do too much more than win your first game.
"That is good enough and being top of the league is even better. I think I might just go home and freeze Teletext!"
Cotterill, who insisted patience was the key to unlocking Rangers defence following a goalless first half, added: "QPR came here with a game plan of not losing.
"I am not knocking that at all because we've done it for two years. But they made it very difficult for us and what happens is the passing starts going astray.
"It's very important that your get a bit of movement and in the second half I thought it worked very well.
"We just needed the goal and thankfully it came. The second goal was fantastic, but with the first one we were looking for the opportunity and it could have easily been smothered by the goalkeeper.
"But Andy Gray and Kyle Lafferty went looking for the opportunity, so praise to them and it was a nice side-foot finish by Steve."
Cotterill ended by praising the buoyant crowd, who went home happy after seeing their team win an opening day fixture for the first time since 2001.
He said: "The people in Burnley live and die for their football club and what we have hopefully done is put a few smiles on faces.
"There will probably be a bit more productivity for the bosses on Monday morning too!"
http://www.burnleyfootballclub.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10413~877602,00.html
[Oh for the days of the early-to-mid 1970s -when QPR and Burnley were the top two teams in (the old) Division 2...QPR signing Dave Thomas from Burnley for a record fee...The two teams being among the brightest "smaller teams" in (the old) Division One...]
The Sunday Times August 06, 2006
Burnley 2 QPR 0: Jones double sinks QPR
Neil Johnston at Turf Moor
IT HAS BEEN a summer of change at Queens Park Rangers but it already looks like being a winter of discontent after Gary Waddock’s reign began with a comprehensive defeat.
Steve Jones, Burnley’s summer signing from Crewe, left Waddock wondering whether he was right to accept the manager’s job last month after capping a fine debut with two excellent second-half finishes. It completed a bad day for Waddock, who revealed afterwards that he tried to sign Jones but failed to lure the Northern Ireland international because he did not want to uproot his family from Cheshire.
“Jones is someone I wanted and he showed his quality with the goals he scored,” Waddock said. “A lot of clubs were after him and we were one of them. We got as far as talking but that was it.”
Since losing to champions Reading on the final day of last season, Rangers have appointed a new manager, brought in a new backroom team and signed five players. Yet it was the same old story as Rangers fell victim to Jones’s outstanding performance. He side-footed his team into a 59th-minute lead before unleashing a left-footed finish 10 minutes later to send Burnley, tipped for a season of struggle, to the top of the table.
“I’m going to go home and freeze Teletext,” Steve Cotterill, the Burnley manager, said after his side’s thoroughly deserved victory. “Jones does hit the ball well and his second goal was fantastic.”
Star Man: Steve Jones (Burnley)
Player ratings: Burnley: Jensen 7, Sinclair 7, Thomas 7, Duff 7, Harley 7, S Jones 8, McCann 7, J O'Connor 7 (Elliott 62mins, 6), Mahon 8 (O’Connor 90min, 5), Gray 6, Lafferty 6 (Hyde 62min, 6)
QPR: P Jones 6, Bignot 5, Rose 5, Stewart 5, Milanese 5, Lomas 5 (R Jones 66min, 5), Ainsworth 5, Rowlands 6 (Donnelly 79min, 5), Ward 5, Cook 5, Czerkas 5 (Bircham 71mins, 5)
Scorers: Burnley: S Jones 59, 69
Referee: M Clattenburg
Attendance: 12,190
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2093-2300918,00.html
Burnley Official Site
Gaffer: You Can't Do Much More Than Win Your First Game
Beaming Burnley boss Steve Cotterill was a happy man after a 2-0 victory over QPR got the season off to a winning start.
The Clarets went top of the fledgling Championship after two goals from Steve Jones sunk Rangers at Turf Moor.
And the gaffer admitted: "I am very pleased. The first game of the season is always an awkward one because you don't get to see other teams in pre-season.
"That makes it a lottery, but you can't do too much more than win your first game.
"That is good enough and being top of the league is even better. I think I might just go home and freeze Teletext!"
Cotterill, who insisted patience was the key to unlocking Rangers defence following a goalless first half, added: "QPR came here with a game plan of not losing.
"I am not knocking that at all because we've done it for two years. But they made it very difficult for us and what happens is the passing starts going astray.
"It's very important that your get a bit of movement and in the second half I thought it worked very well.
"We just needed the goal and thankfully it came. The second goal was fantastic, but with the first one we were looking for the opportunity and it could have easily been smothered by the goalkeeper.
"But Andy Gray and Kyle Lafferty went looking for the opportunity, so praise to them and it was a nice side-foot finish by Steve."
Cotterill ended by praising the buoyant crowd, who went home happy after seeing their team win an opening day fixture for the first time since 2001.
He said: "The people in Burnley live and die for their football club and what we have hopefully done is put a few smiles on faces.
"There will probably be a bit more productivity for the bosses on Monday morning too!"
http://www.burnleyfootballclub.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10413~877602,00.html
Shittu Deciding Between Watford and WBA
-
West Bromwich Albion - Official Site
Shittu mulling over move
BRYAN Robson has revealed transfer target Dan Shittu will decide whether to join Albion or Premiership new boys Watford over the weekend.
The QPR centre-half held talks with both the Baggies and the Hornets yesterday (Friday).
Robson explained: "Danny spoke to us and Watford on Friday and he said he'll make a decision one way or the other, as to which team he wants to join, over the weekend."
....http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10366~877660,00.html
West Bromwich Albion - Official Site
Shittu mulling over move
BRYAN Robson has revealed transfer target Dan Shittu will decide whether to join Albion or Premiership new boys Watford over the weekend.
The QPR centre-half held talks with both the Baggies and the Hornets yesterday (Friday).
Robson explained: "Danny spoke to us and Watford on Friday and he said he'll make a decision one way or the other, as to which team he wants to join, over the weekend."
....http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10366~877660,00.html
Saturday, August 05, 2006
How Ex-QPRs Did Today -: Plymouth...Swindon...Swansea...Brentford & MK Dons
-
In some of today's other matches...
Ian Holloway's Plymouth drew 1-1 at home to Wolves. (Hayles put Plymouth ahead. Wolves equalized in the 46th through an own goal)
Bill Power's Swindon won 1-0 at Hartlepool
Kenny Jackett's Swansea lost 1-2 at home to Cheltenham (Leon Knight did score!)
LeRoy Rosenoir's Brentford won 1-0
Martin Allen's MK Dons won 2-1 at home to Bury (both goals from McCleod)
[And Paul Murray scored for Carlisle in the 3rd minute to beat Doncaster 1-0
In some of today's other matches...
Ian Holloway's Plymouth drew 1-1 at home to Wolves. (Hayles put Plymouth ahead. Wolves equalized in the 46th through an own goal)
Bill Power's Swindon won 1-0 at Hartlepool
Kenny Jackett's Swansea lost 1-2 at home to Cheltenham (Leon Knight did score!)
LeRoy Rosenoir's Brentford won 1-0
Martin Allen's MK Dons won 2-1 at home to Bury (both goals from McCleod)
[And Paul Murray scored for Carlisle in the 3rd minute to beat Doncaster 1-0
Burnley 2 QPR 0 - Match Reports
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Waddock's Post Match Comments
COSTLY MISTAKE
Gary Waddock believes the 'costly mistake' that led to Burnley's opening goal ultimately proved to be the R's downfall at Turf Moor.
Speaking exclusively to qpr.co.uk moments after the 2-0 defeat, Waddock said: "Our game plan worked superbly in the first half, but we conceded a sloppy goal and it cost us.
"We dealt time and again with the long punt forward in the first period, but our mentality seemed to change for one reason or another after the break and we've come away with nothing from a game we've competed superbly in for 60 odd minutes.
"As a manager you can only prepare the team for matches - once they step over that white line it becomes out of your control and when you make a mistake like we did, you get punished.''
After Steve Jones' fortuitous opener, Waddock switched to a 4-4-2 formation, only to see his best laid plans fail when the same player made it 2-0 soon after.
"We had to change everything around after the first goal, but we should never have got ourselves into that situation in the first place.
"We bossed the first half, creating chance after chance, yet we've come anyway with nothing and that's deeply disappointing.''
Waddock insists it will be easy to pick the players up for the visit of Leeds United to Loftus Road on Tuesday evening, commenting: "The season is only one game old and we're playing host to one of the biggest teams in the division in Leeds United, so the players won't need picking up.''
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/ManagersComments/0,,10373~877547,00.html
QPR Official Site
A brace from former QPR transfer target Steve Jones proved to be the difference at Turf Moor.
Jones - who left Crewe Alexandra to join the Clarets in the summer - bagged a second half double as the R's began the new Coca Cola Championship season with defeat at Turf Moor.
Rangers were their own worst enemies for the Clarets' opening goal, gifting Jones a simple tap-in to an empty net after an embarrassing defensive mix-up.
However, if his first was fortunate, his second was quite sublime. After being gifted time and space on the edge of the box, the industrious Jones let fly, giving Paul Jones absolutely no chance from fully 25 yards.
Earlier, the Hoops enjoyed the lion's share of territory and possession in the first half, with debutant Nicky Ward at the heart of most of their positive play.
Indeed, it was the Aussie international who came closest to breaking the deadlock just after the half hour, thrashing a fearsome 25 yard shot on target, only to see Brian Jensen make a fine diving save.
Gary Waddock handed competitive debuts to three of his new signings in the shape of Damion Stewart, Ward and Adam Czerkas - with the latter ploughing a lone furrow up front in a flexible 4-5-1 formation.
Gareth Ainsworth was given the captaincy in the absence of the injured Kevin Gallen, while Paul Jones retained the number one jersey he made his own towards the end of last season.
The opening exchanges between the two sides were fairly free-flowing, with Lee Cook feeling the full force of a mistimed James O'Connor tackle as early as the fourth minute.
Rangers created the first chance of the match 60 seconds later, with new signing Czerkas firing wide from fully 30 yards.
Czerkas was on the prowl again on eight minutes, latching on to a teasing Marcus Bignot through ball, only to be thwarted in his tracks by the onrushing Jensen.
The visitors' dominance continued and when Ainsworth was sent tumbling to ground on the edge of the box, Matthew Rose lived up to his surname, out-jumping the Clarets' defenders to head Cook's inviting free-kick over the bar.
The one-way traffic continued and Ward was unlucky not to open his account for the R's when he got a head to Martin Rowlands' perfectly flighted corner. The Aussie midfielder timed his leap to perfection, but Jensen was in the right place at the right time to gather on his line.
Ward tried his luck again on 18 minutes, letting fly from 25 yards, only for the ball to take a heavy deflection and go wide for a corner.
The former Perth Glory man was certainly relishing his first taste of competitive English football, turning O'Connor on a sixpence with an outrageous piece of close control inside his own half.
Buoyed by their tremendous travelling support, Rowlands - back after a knee injury sustained at the start of the year - forced Jensen into a comfortable save on 27 minutes, before play switched to the other end, with Paul Jones on hand to gather O'Connor's long range shot with ease.
As the clock ticked towards the 30 minute mark, Kyle Lafferty headed over the crossbar after some decent build-up play involving Steve Jones.
Ward was being gifted the freedom of the park and when he wriggled clear of his marker 30 yards from goal, only a superb tip round from Jensen denied him a goal his first half performance undoubtedly deserved.
Paul Jones produced a similar save at the other end on 38 minutes, diving full length to his right to divert Chris McCann's piercing drive.
The second half was only 30 seconds old when O'Connor became the third Burnley player to find his way into Mr Clattenburg's notebook for an overzealous tackle on Ainsworth.
O'Connor nearly made amends for his ill-discipline on 52 minutes, sending an arrowing drive inches wide of Jones' right hand post with the Welsh international seemingly beaten.
Burnley boss Steve Cotterill received his first dressing down of the new campaign from Clattenburg moments later, as the home gaffer became increasingly frustrated on the sidelines.
The impressive Stewart came to the visitors' rescue on 55 minutes, making superb ground to divert Mahon's right sided cross to safety.
But the Jamaican international and his fellow defenders were left licking their wounds on 58 minutes, when a terrible mix-up at the back involving Stewart, Rose and Jones allowed Steve Jones to blast the ball into an empty net.
Conceding was harsh on the R's, but when you make mistakes at this level, you generally get punished, as the visitor's discovered to their cost.
Undeterred, Rangers were back on the front foot immediately, with Jensen saving well from the roaming Rowlands.
Waddock threw caution to the wind by introducing Ray Jones at the expense of Lomas, but his best laid plans were in tatters on 69 minutes, when the outstanding Jones sent a superb strike into the top corner of the net to all but seal the three points for the hosts.
After playing his part in assisting with the Clarets' opener, Paul Jones went some way to making amends on 87 minutes, diving to his right to deny Alan Mahon a certain goal.
Burnley: Jensen, Thomas, Harley, Sinclair, Duff, J O'Connor (Elliott 62), Mahon (G O'Connor 90), Jones, Gray, McCann, Lafferty (Hyde 62).
Subs: McGreal, Foster.
Goals: Jones 58, 69
Bookings: Duff 33, Harley 45, O'Connor 46
Red Cards:
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Stewart, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Donnelly 78), Lomas (R Jones 65), Ward, Cook, Czerkas (Bircham 71).
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchReport/0,,10373~33572,00.html
Burnley Official Site
Clarets Clockwatch:
21 Lafferty volley is far too high, but kick starts the Clarets
26 Mahon tests Paul Jones with a low drive
30 Lafferty heads just over from Jones' cross
38 McCann again denied by Jones acrobatics
58 GOAL! Jones off the mark with a poacher's finish
69 GOAL! Jones makes it two with a 25-yard scorcher
78 Mahon just off target with curling free kick
87 Hyde denied a third by another great save
STEVE Jones was the two-goal hero as Burnley opened up their Championship account with a deserved victory.
The summer signing from Crewe had scored six goals in pre-season, including a four-goal haul in one game during the tour to Italy.
And his hot streak continued as he got the Clarets up and running with a stunning second half brace to sink QPR.
Opening day games can be notoriously tense - and this was no exception as Rangers adopted a one-man strike force in a bid to frustrate their hosts.
However, the visitors carved out the chances in the opening stages, with Nick Ward heading over and then nodding straight at Brian Jensen in the 16th minute.
The Clarets forced their first half chance midway through the half, but Kyle Lafferty, who scored on the final day of last season, couldn't control his volley to start the new season with a bang.
Alan Mahon's clever dribble and pass was then whiskers away from opening up the path to goal for Lafferty. And as Burnley began to build up a head of steam, Mahon tested veteran Rangers stopper Paul Jones with a dipping drive from distance that the Welshman held easily.
Burnley created their best opening on the half hour mark, when Harley and Jones combined well down the left and the former Crewe striker, operating in a wide role, crossed for Lafferty to head narrowly over.
Chris McCann then tried his luck before the break, but Jones was equal to his rising drive from 25 yards.
The half time arrived with the Clarets now well in the ascendancy.
And it took just 13 minutes of the second half to make the all-important breakthrough. Mahon's through ball was just too far for Lafferty, but the big Irish striker refused to give up and as he tussled with keeper Jones, the ball rolled loose for namesake Steve to rifle home from 12 yards.
The relief was tangible and it lifted Burnley to a new level, capped by a brilliant second from Jones in the 69th minute.
Latching onto Frank Sinclair's ball inside, the flame-haired hitman took the ball out of his stride and unleashed a 25-yard howitzer that flew into the top corner and capped off a wholly satisfactory opening day victory.
BURNLEY: Jensen, Sinclair, Thomas, Duff, Harley, Jones, S Jones, McCann, J O'Connor (Hyde 62), Mahon (G O'Connor 90), Gray, Lafferty (Elliott 62). Subs not used: McGreal Foster,
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Milanese, Rose, Ward, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Donnelly 79), Lomas (Jones 66), Cook, Stewart, Czerkas (Bircham 71).
Subs not used: Cole, Kanyuka.
Ref: M Clattenberg
Booked: Duff 32, Harley 45, J O'Connor 46
http://www.burnleyfootballclub.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchReport/0,,10413~33572,00.html
BBC - Minute-by-minute
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/burnley/live_text/default.stm
BBC Report - Burnley 2-0 QPR
New recruit Steve Jones kicked off Burnley's Championship campaign with a win by scoring two goals on his debut.
The striker broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when QPR goalkeeper Paul Jones failed to clear leaving Jones to sweep home a left-footed finish.
Jones' second arrived with 21 minutes remaining as he found the top corner with a powerful drive following Frank Sinclair's interception.
The impressive Nick Ward enjoyed QPR's best chance with a fierce volley.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/5226752.stm
Sporting Life
Burnley 2 QPR 0
By Mike McGrath, PA Sport
Click here for full match stats
Summer signing Steve Jones kicked off Burnley's Coca-Cola Championship campaign with a win by scoring two goals on his debut in a 2-0 defeat of QPR at Turf Moor.
The 29-year-old, who only scored five goals last season during a campaign with Crewe which ended in relegation, swept home the first just before the hour then smashed a long-range effort into the top corner to wrap up the points.
There was little to separate the teams prior to the Northern Ireland striker breaking the deadlock, with Nick Ward impressive for the visitors before his busy performance in midfield faded.
Adam Czerkas led the visitors' attack as a lone frontman and the Polish striker, who is on loan from Odra Wodzislaw, almost latched on to a hopeful ball from Damion Stewart early on.
Frank Sinclair had carelessly allowed the ball to run through for Czerkas, but Clarets goalkeeper Brian Jensen dived at the feet of the striker and cleared.
The visitors then threatened from set-pieces, firstly Mauro Milanese heading over from a free-kick delivered by Lee Cook, then Australian youngster Ward heading straight at Jensen with a free header from a corner.
Burnley had tried without success to get youngster Kyle Lafferty behind the QPR defence, but his height remained a threat and he headed on to the roof of the net on the half-hour mark after a cross from the left by Jones.
Ward was proving a handful for Clarets defence, with Michael Duff earning a booking for a trip on the youngster after 33 minutes, and goalkeeper Paul Jones required to save from a Ward volley soon after.
Clarets midfielder Chris McCann also had a long-range effort saved, while Jon Harley, who had earlier come close with a sliced volley from the touchline, was booked for a foul on Ward in the dying moments of a lacklustre opening half.
The second period began with the same lack of fluency, and James O'Connor was booked for a foul on Gareth Ainsworth in the opening minute.
O'Connor came close with a long-range effort which flew just wide of the top corner, although clear-cut chances proved more difficult to come by.
Any sort of promising opportunity was likely to be caused by a mistake, and QPR goalkeeper Jones obliged in the 59th minute when he failed to clear a straightforward ball into the penalty area after pressure from Andy Gray. The ball broke to Clarets striker Jones who swept home with a left-footed finish.
Jones' second arrived with 21 minutes remaining as he found the top corner with a powerful drive following Sinclair's interception of a dreadful pass out of the QPR defence.
Alan Mahon and Micah Hyde came close with long-range efforts late on - but it remained 2-0.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/reports/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/05/SOCCER_Burnley.html
Waddock's Post Match Comments
COSTLY MISTAKE
Gary Waddock believes the 'costly mistake' that led to Burnley's opening goal ultimately proved to be the R's downfall at Turf Moor.
Speaking exclusively to qpr.co.uk moments after the 2-0 defeat, Waddock said: "Our game plan worked superbly in the first half, but we conceded a sloppy goal and it cost us.
"We dealt time and again with the long punt forward in the first period, but our mentality seemed to change for one reason or another after the break and we've come away with nothing from a game we've competed superbly in for 60 odd minutes.
"As a manager you can only prepare the team for matches - once they step over that white line it becomes out of your control and when you make a mistake like we did, you get punished.''
After Steve Jones' fortuitous opener, Waddock switched to a 4-4-2 formation, only to see his best laid plans fail when the same player made it 2-0 soon after.
"We had to change everything around after the first goal, but we should never have got ourselves into that situation in the first place.
"We bossed the first half, creating chance after chance, yet we've come anyway with nothing and that's deeply disappointing.''
Waddock insists it will be easy to pick the players up for the visit of Leeds United to Loftus Road on Tuesday evening, commenting: "The season is only one game old and we're playing host to one of the biggest teams in the division in Leeds United, so the players won't need picking up.''
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/ManagersComments/0,,10373~877547,00.html
QPR Official Site
A brace from former QPR transfer target Steve Jones proved to be the difference at Turf Moor.
Jones - who left Crewe Alexandra to join the Clarets in the summer - bagged a second half double as the R's began the new Coca Cola Championship season with defeat at Turf Moor.
Rangers were their own worst enemies for the Clarets' opening goal, gifting Jones a simple tap-in to an empty net after an embarrassing defensive mix-up.
However, if his first was fortunate, his second was quite sublime. After being gifted time and space on the edge of the box, the industrious Jones let fly, giving Paul Jones absolutely no chance from fully 25 yards.
Earlier, the Hoops enjoyed the lion's share of territory and possession in the first half, with debutant Nicky Ward at the heart of most of their positive play.
Indeed, it was the Aussie international who came closest to breaking the deadlock just after the half hour, thrashing a fearsome 25 yard shot on target, only to see Brian Jensen make a fine diving save.
Gary Waddock handed competitive debuts to three of his new signings in the shape of Damion Stewart, Ward and Adam Czerkas - with the latter ploughing a lone furrow up front in a flexible 4-5-1 formation.
Gareth Ainsworth was given the captaincy in the absence of the injured Kevin Gallen, while Paul Jones retained the number one jersey he made his own towards the end of last season.
The opening exchanges between the two sides were fairly free-flowing, with Lee Cook feeling the full force of a mistimed James O'Connor tackle as early as the fourth minute.
Rangers created the first chance of the match 60 seconds later, with new signing Czerkas firing wide from fully 30 yards.
Czerkas was on the prowl again on eight minutes, latching on to a teasing Marcus Bignot through ball, only to be thwarted in his tracks by the onrushing Jensen.
The visitors' dominance continued and when Ainsworth was sent tumbling to ground on the edge of the box, Matthew Rose lived up to his surname, out-jumping the Clarets' defenders to head Cook's inviting free-kick over the bar.
The one-way traffic continued and Ward was unlucky not to open his account for the R's when he got a head to Martin Rowlands' perfectly flighted corner. The Aussie midfielder timed his leap to perfection, but Jensen was in the right place at the right time to gather on his line.
Ward tried his luck again on 18 minutes, letting fly from 25 yards, only for the ball to take a heavy deflection and go wide for a corner.
The former Perth Glory man was certainly relishing his first taste of competitive English football, turning O'Connor on a sixpence with an outrageous piece of close control inside his own half.
Buoyed by their tremendous travelling support, Rowlands - back after a knee injury sustained at the start of the year - forced Jensen into a comfortable save on 27 minutes, before play switched to the other end, with Paul Jones on hand to gather O'Connor's long range shot with ease.
As the clock ticked towards the 30 minute mark, Kyle Lafferty headed over the crossbar after some decent build-up play involving Steve Jones.
Ward was being gifted the freedom of the park and when he wriggled clear of his marker 30 yards from goal, only a superb tip round from Jensen denied him a goal his first half performance undoubtedly deserved.
Paul Jones produced a similar save at the other end on 38 minutes, diving full length to his right to divert Chris McCann's piercing drive.
The second half was only 30 seconds old when O'Connor became the third Burnley player to find his way into Mr Clattenburg's notebook for an overzealous tackle on Ainsworth.
O'Connor nearly made amends for his ill-discipline on 52 minutes, sending an arrowing drive inches wide of Jones' right hand post with the Welsh international seemingly beaten.
Burnley boss Steve Cotterill received his first dressing down of the new campaign from Clattenburg moments later, as the home gaffer became increasingly frustrated on the sidelines.
The impressive Stewart came to the visitors' rescue on 55 minutes, making superb ground to divert Mahon's right sided cross to safety.
But the Jamaican international and his fellow defenders were left licking their wounds on 58 minutes, when a terrible mix-up at the back involving Stewart, Rose and Jones allowed Steve Jones to blast the ball into an empty net.
Conceding was harsh on the R's, but when you make mistakes at this level, you generally get punished, as the visitor's discovered to their cost.
Undeterred, Rangers were back on the front foot immediately, with Jensen saving well from the roaming Rowlands.
Waddock threw caution to the wind by introducing Ray Jones at the expense of Lomas, but his best laid plans were in tatters on 69 minutes, when the outstanding Jones sent a superb strike into the top corner of the net to all but seal the three points for the hosts.
After playing his part in assisting with the Clarets' opener, Paul Jones went some way to making amends on 87 minutes, diving to his right to deny Alan Mahon a certain goal.
Burnley: Jensen, Thomas, Harley, Sinclair, Duff, J O'Connor (Elliott 62), Mahon (G O'Connor 90), Jones, Gray, McCann, Lafferty (Hyde 62).
Subs: McGreal, Foster.
Goals: Jones 58, 69
Bookings: Duff 33, Harley 45, O'Connor 46
Red Cards:
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Stewart, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Donnelly 78), Lomas (R Jones 65), Ward, Cook, Czerkas (Bircham 71).
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchReport/0,,10373~33572,00.html
Burnley Official Site
Clarets Clockwatch:
21 Lafferty volley is far too high, but kick starts the Clarets
26 Mahon tests Paul Jones with a low drive
30 Lafferty heads just over from Jones' cross
38 McCann again denied by Jones acrobatics
58 GOAL! Jones off the mark with a poacher's finish
69 GOAL! Jones makes it two with a 25-yard scorcher
78 Mahon just off target with curling free kick
87 Hyde denied a third by another great save
STEVE Jones was the two-goal hero as Burnley opened up their Championship account with a deserved victory.
The summer signing from Crewe had scored six goals in pre-season, including a four-goal haul in one game during the tour to Italy.
And his hot streak continued as he got the Clarets up and running with a stunning second half brace to sink QPR.
Opening day games can be notoriously tense - and this was no exception as Rangers adopted a one-man strike force in a bid to frustrate their hosts.
However, the visitors carved out the chances in the opening stages, with Nick Ward heading over and then nodding straight at Brian Jensen in the 16th minute.
The Clarets forced their first half chance midway through the half, but Kyle Lafferty, who scored on the final day of last season, couldn't control his volley to start the new season with a bang.
Alan Mahon's clever dribble and pass was then whiskers away from opening up the path to goal for Lafferty. And as Burnley began to build up a head of steam, Mahon tested veteran Rangers stopper Paul Jones with a dipping drive from distance that the Welshman held easily.
Burnley created their best opening on the half hour mark, when Harley and Jones combined well down the left and the former Crewe striker, operating in a wide role, crossed for Lafferty to head narrowly over.
Chris McCann then tried his luck before the break, but Jones was equal to his rising drive from 25 yards.
The half time arrived with the Clarets now well in the ascendancy.
And it took just 13 minutes of the second half to make the all-important breakthrough. Mahon's through ball was just too far for Lafferty, but the big Irish striker refused to give up and as he tussled with keeper Jones, the ball rolled loose for namesake Steve to rifle home from 12 yards.
The relief was tangible and it lifted Burnley to a new level, capped by a brilliant second from Jones in the 69th minute.
Latching onto Frank Sinclair's ball inside, the flame-haired hitman took the ball out of his stride and unleashed a 25-yard howitzer that flew into the top corner and capped off a wholly satisfactory opening day victory.
BURNLEY: Jensen, Sinclair, Thomas, Duff, Harley, Jones, S Jones, McCann, J O'Connor (Hyde 62), Mahon (G O'Connor 90), Gray, Lafferty (Elliott 62). Subs not used: McGreal Foster,
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Milanese, Rose, Ward, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Donnelly 79), Lomas (Jones 66), Cook, Stewart, Czerkas (Bircham 71).
Subs not used: Cole, Kanyuka.
Ref: M Clattenberg
Booked: Duff 32, Harley 45, J O'Connor 46
http://www.burnleyfootballclub.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchReport/0,,10413~33572,00.html
BBC - Minute-by-minute
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/burnley/live_text/default.stm
BBC Report - Burnley 2-0 QPR
New recruit Steve Jones kicked off Burnley's Championship campaign with a win by scoring two goals on his debut.
The striker broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when QPR goalkeeper Paul Jones failed to clear leaving Jones to sweep home a left-footed finish.
Jones' second arrived with 21 minutes remaining as he found the top corner with a powerful drive following Frank Sinclair's interception.
The impressive Nick Ward enjoyed QPR's best chance with a fierce volley.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/5226752.stm
Sporting Life
Burnley 2 QPR 0
By Mike McGrath, PA Sport
Click here for full match stats
Summer signing Steve Jones kicked off Burnley's Coca-Cola Championship campaign with a win by scoring two goals on his debut in a 2-0 defeat of QPR at Turf Moor.
The 29-year-old, who only scored five goals last season during a campaign with Crewe which ended in relegation, swept home the first just before the hour then smashed a long-range effort into the top corner to wrap up the points.
There was little to separate the teams prior to the Northern Ireland striker breaking the deadlock, with Nick Ward impressive for the visitors before his busy performance in midfield faded.
Adam Czerkas led the visitors' attack as a lone frontman and the Polish striker, who is on loan from Odra Wodzislaw, almost latched on to a hopeful ball from Damion Stewart early on.
Frank Sinclair had carelessly allowed the ball to run through for Czerkas, but Clarets goalkeeper Brian Jensen dived at the feet of the striker and cleared.
The visitors then threatened from set-pieces, firstly Mauro Milanese heading over from a free-kick delivered by Lee Cook, then Australian youngster Ward heading straight at Jensen with a free header from a corner.
Burnley had tried without success to get youngster Kyle Lafferty behind the QPR defence, but his height remained a threat and he headed on to the roof of the net on the half-hour mark after a cross from the left by Jones.
Ward was proving a handful for Clarets defence, with Michael Duff earning a booking for a trip on the youngster after 33 minutes, and goalkeeper Paul Jones required to save from a Ward volley soon after.
Clarets midfielder Chris McCann also had a long-range effort saved, while Jon Harley, who had earlier come close with a sliced volley from the touchline, was booked for a foul on Ward in the dying moments of a lacklustre opening half.
The second period began with the same lack of fluency, and James O'Connor was booked for a foul on Gareth Ainsworth in the opening minute.
O'Connor came close with a long-range effort which flew just wide of the top corner, although clear-cut chances proved more difficult to come by.
Any sort of promising opportunity was likely to be caused by a mistake, and QPR goalkeeper Jones obliged in the 59th minute when he failed to clear a straightforward ball into the penalty area after pressure from Andy Gray. The ball broke to Clarets striker Jones who swept home with a left-footed finish.
Jones' second arrived with 21 minutes remaining as he found the top corner with a powerful drive following Sinclair's interception of a dreadful pass out of the QPR defence.
Alan Mahon and Micah Hyde came close with long-range efforts late on - but it remained 2-0.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/reports/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/05/SOCCER_Burnley.html
Burnley vs QPR - The Lineups
-
And it's Burnley vs QPR Time
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Stewart, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands, Lomas, Ward, Cook, Czerkas.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Donnelly, Bircham, R Jones.
Burnley: Jensen, Thomas, Harley, Sinclair, Duff, J O'Connor, Mahon, Jones, Gray, McCann, Lafferty.
Subs: McGreal, Elliott, G O'Connor, Hyde, Foster.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876512,00.html
And it's Burnley vs QPR Time
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Stewart, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands, Lomas, Ward, Cook, Czerkas.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Donnelly, Bircham, R Jones.
Burnley: Jensen, Thomas, Harley, Sinclair, Duff, J O'Connor, Mahon, Jones, Gray, McCann, Lafferty.
Subs: McGreal, Elliott, G O'Connor, Hyde, Foster.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876512,00.html
Ex-QPR Chairman Bill Power Says No QPR Return
-
BBC/Wiltshire - Power to stay with STFC
Swindon Town director and £1 million investor, Bill Power, says he's staying at the County Ground...
Swindon Town director Bill Power says he is staying with the club for the long term and there is no chance of him going back to Queen's Park Rangers.
He only joined the Robins earlier this year having previously been involved at QPR and has pledged to invest more than £1 million.
Last week the current Rangers chairman said he would be willing to let Power take back control of the West London club if he was interested.
But speaking during Saturday's 1-all draw with Reading, Power says his future is at the County Ground:
"I've thrown my hat in with Swindon and I've never gone back on things before.
"The next three or four years are going to be very exciting here and I just wish the season was starting today, you know, the way they're playing it's great."...
.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/wiltshire/content/articles/2006/07/31/stfc_310706_feature.shtml
BBC/Wiltshire - Power to stay with STFC
Swindon Town director and £1 million investor, Bill Power, says he's staying at the County Ground...
Swindon Town director Bill Power says he is staying with the club for the long term and there is no chance of him going back to Queen's Park Rangers.
He only joined the Robins earlier this year having previously been involved at QPR and has pledged to invest more than £1 million.
Last week the current Rangers chairman said he would be willing to let Power take back control of the West London club if he was interested.
But speaking during Saturday's 1-all draw with Reading, Power says his future is at the County Ground:
"I've thrown my hat in with Swindon and I've never gone back on things before.
"The next three or four years are going to be very exciting here and I just wish the season was starting today, you know, the way they're playing it's great."...
.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/wiltshire/content/articles/2006/07/31/stfc_310706_feature.shtml
Penrice Reported Set to Link Up wth Holloway
-
Plymouth Evening Herald - 4 August 2006
Penrice Set to Link up with Holloway
Gary Penrice should become the latest addition to Ian Holloway's backroom staff at Home Park by next week.
Penrice was a coach for Holloway at both Bristol Rovers and Queens Park Rangers and is a trusted ally of the new Pilgrims' boss.
When Holloway was put on 'gardening leave' by QPR in February after a fall-out with chairman Gianni Paladini, his two coaches - Penrice and Tim Breacker - suffered the same fate.
Holloway took over at Argyle on June 28 but Penrice and Breacker remain on the payroll at the west London club.
"I have offered something to Gary Penrice and he has had a problem to sort out with QPR," said Holloway. "I think they are doing that as we speak. The role I will be talking about will be different to what he did at QPR."
Holloway confirmed no offer had been made yet to Breacker.
When asked whether he would like to bring Breacker to Home Park, Holloway replied: "We will have to wait and see. Other things will have to happen at this end first."...
http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=184334&command=displayContent&sourceNode=135656&contentPK=15069032
Plymouth Evening Herald - 4 August 2006
Penrice Set to Link up with Holloway
Gary Penrice should become the latest addition to Ian Holloway's backroom staff at Home Park by next week.
Penrice was a coach for Holloway at both Bristol Rovers and Queens Park Rangers and is a trusted ally of the new Pilgrims' boss.
When Holloway was put on 'gardening leave' by QPR in February after a fall-out with chairman Gianni Paladini, his two coaches - Penrice and Tim Breacker - suffered the same fate.
Holloway took over at Argyle on June 28 but Penrice and Breacker remain on the payroll at the west London club.
"I have offered something to Gary Penrice and he has had a problem to sort out with QPR," said Holloway. "I think they are doing that as we speak. The role I will be talking about will be different to what he did at QPR."
Holloway confirmed no offer had been made yet to Breacker.
When asked whether he would like to bring Breacker to Home Park, Holloway replied: "We will have to wait and see. Other things will have to happen at this end first."...
http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=184334&command=displayContent&sourceNode=135656&contentPK=15069032
Friday, August 04, 2006
First Game of a New Season
-
It's QPR at Burnley...
And early team news: Presmably no Shittu in the QPR team! A bunch of new players in; a bunch of transfer-listed players still here...Some injuries...
UPDATE - From Burnley Official Site
Burnley v QPR
After a long summer, football is finally back and the Coca Cola Championship 2006/07 season begins on Saturday.
The Clarets kick off their campaign against QPR at Turf Moor and will be looking to get off to a good start to the new season.
Burnley remained unbeaten in pre-season and only conceded two goals, but as boss Steve Cotterill admitted in the build-up friendlies and their results mean nothing.
Andy Gray celebrates his goal against QPR last season
QPR have prepared for the new campaign with a 1-0 win over Gilligham, before heading to Sorrento on a pre-season tour, participating in two matches winning 4-0 over San Antonio Abate, before falling to a 5-1 defeat against Serie C side Sorrentio Calcio.
Gary Waddock appointed as the R's new manager on a full-time basis last term, has enjoyed a busy summer in the transfer market.
There has been somewhat of a international flavour to the new arrivals at Loftus Road, with Polish front-man Adam Czerkas, Nigerian midfielder Egutu Oliseh, Jamaican defender Damion Stewart and Australian Nick Ward, all linking up with the R's.
Highly-rated young striker Shabazz Baidoo has also signed his first professional contract, after making the breakthrough to the first team over the last season.
The Hoops will now be aiming to make a substantial improvement on last season, when they narrowly avoided relegation to league one, finishing in a disappointing 21st place.
The bookies see both Burnley and QPR as outsiders to succeed in the Championship but the Clarets are favourites to win on Saturday at 10/11, whilst the Hoops are 3/1 to get the three points and a draw is 2/1.
Andy Gray is favourite to open the scoring for Burnley at 5/1, whilst new summer signing Adam Czerkas is 9/2 for the Hoops.
Team News
Brian Jensen will start the game in goal, with Danny Coyne also included in the squad.
New signings Steve Jones and Stephen Foster could make their home debuts but Danny Karbassiyoon is struggling with a knee injury , which caused him to miss Burnley's pre-season matches.
Matthew Rose (foot), Martin Rowlands (groin), Egutu Oliseh (thigh) and Dominic Shimmin (toe) have all returned to full training with QPR, although the latter is suspended for the first three games of the campaign.
Goalkeeper Simon Royce is available after missing much of pre-season, while Marc Nygaard and Kevin Gallen have overcome slight knocks.
Striker Paul Furlong is sidelined for the first five weeks of the season with a thigh injury.
Tickets are on sale now, phone 0870 443 1914 or buy online. If you can't get down to Turf Moor though, to cheer the lads on in person, Phil Bird will be on ClaretsWorld live and direct from 2.50pm.
http://www.burnleyfootballclub.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/PreMatch/0,,10413~876922,00.html
From the BBC - Burnley v QPR
Transfer-listed utility man Danny Karbassiyoon has struggled through pre-season with a knee injury and is Burnley's only injury doubt.
Goalkeeper Brian Jensen will definitely start, with Danny Coyne on the bench.
QPR have doubts over strikers Kevin Gallen and Mrc Nygaard, while fellow foward Paul Furlong has a thigh injury.
Egutu Oliseh also has a thigh problem and defender Dominic Shimmin is banned, but midfielders Martin Rowlands, Marc Bircham and Steve Lomas should figure.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/5226752.stm
Clive Whittingham/QPR Rivals Game Preview
http://queensparkrangers.rivals.net/default.asp?sid=925&p=2&stid=8417868
It's QPR at Burnley...
And early team news: Presmably no Shittu in the QPR team! A bunch of new players in; a bunch of transfer-listed players still here...Some injuries...
UPDATE - From Burnley Official Site
Burnley v QPR
After a long summer, football is finally back and the Coca Cola Championship 2006/07 season begins on Saturday.
The Clarets kick off their campaign against QPR at Turf Moor and will be looking to get off to a good start to the new season.
Burnley remained unbeaten in pre-season and only conceded two goals, but as boss Steve Cotterill admitted in the build-up friendlies and their results mean nothing.
Andy Gray celebrates his goal against QPR last season
QPR have prepared for the new campaign with a 1-0 win over Gilligham, before heading to Sorrento on a pre-season tour, participating in two matches winning 4-0 over San Antonio Abate, before falling to a 5-1 defeat against Serie C side Sorrentio Calcio.
Gary Waddock appointed as the R's new manager on a full-time basis last term, has enjoyed a busy summer in the transfer market.
There has been somewhat of a international flavour to the new arrivals at Loftus Road, with Polish front-man Adam Czerkas, Nigerian midfielder Egutu Oliseh, Jamaican defender Damion Stewart and Australian Nick Ward, all linking up with the R's.
Highly-rated young striker Shabazz Baidoo has also signed his first professional contract, after making the breakthrough to the first team over the last season.
The Hoops will now be aiming to make a substantial improvement on last season, when they narrowly avoided relegation to league one, finishing in a disappointing 21st place.
The bookies see both Burnley and QPR as outsiders to succeed in the Championship but the Clarets are favourites to win on Saturday at 10/11, whilst the Hoops are 3/1 to get the three points and a draw is 2/1.
Andy Gray is favourite to open the scoring for Burnley at 5/1, whilst new summer signing Adam Czerkas is 9/2 for the Hoops.
Team News
Brian Jensen will start the game in goal, with Danny Coyne also included in the squad.
New signings Steve Jones and Stephen Foster could make their home debuts but Danny Karbassiyoon is struggling with a knee injury , which caused him to miss Burnley's pre-season matches.
Matthew Rose (foot), Martin Rowlands (groin), Egutu Oliseh (thigh) and Dominic Shimmin (toe) have all returned to full training with QPR, although the latter is suspended for the first three games of the campaign.
Goalkeeper Simon Royce is available after missing much of pre-season, while Marc Nygaard and Kevin Gallen have overcome slight knocks.
Striker Paul Furlong is sidelined for the first five weeks of the season with a thigh injury.
Tickets are on sale now, phone 0870 443 1914 or buy online. If you can't get down to Turf Moor though, to cheer the lads on in person, Phil Bird will be on ClaretsWorld live and direct from 2.50pm.
http://www.burnleyfootballclub.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/PreMatch/0,,10413~876922,00.html
From the BBC - Burnley v QPR
Transfer-listed utility man Danny Karbassiyoon has struggled through pre-season with a knee injury and is Burnley's only injury doubt.
Goalkeeper Brian Jensen will definitely start, with Danny Coyne on the bench.
QPR have doubts over strikers Kevin Gallen and Mrc Nygaard, while fellow foward Paul Furlong has a thigh injury.
Egutu Oliseh also has a thigh problem and defender Dominic Shimmin is banned, but midfielders Martin Rowlands, Marc Bircham and Steve Lomas should figure.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/5226752.stm
Clive Whittingham/QPR Rivals Game Preview
http://queensparkrangers.rivals.net/default.asp?sid=925&p=2&stid=8417868
Today's QPR Birthday...Tony Roberts
-
Former QPR Goalie & Current QPR Goalkeeping Coach, Tony Roberts, turns 37.
Born August 4, 1969. Over a decade at QPR, between 1987 and 1997, Roberts made 122 appearances.
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=8610
Former QPR Goalie & Current QPR Goalkeeping Coach, Tony Roberts, turns 37.
Born August 4, 1969. Over a decade at QPR, between 1987 and 1997, Roberts made 122 appearances.
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=8610
Other Recent QPR News
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Official team photo...Ian Evatt joins Blackpool on a six months loan...Reportedly, QPR have a bid for Southampton's Blackstock...
QPR's Official Team Photo
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876331,00.html
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Evatt to Blackpool on Six month Loan
BY THE SEASIDE
Ian Evatt has joined Coca Cola League One side Blackpool on a six month loan deal.
The former Chesterfield and Derby defender today (Thursday) penned a six month loan deal with the Seasiders that will expire on January 3rd 2007.
Evatt joined the R's in June 2005 for £150,000, but after falling out of favour under former boss Ian Holloway, he was eventually placed on the transfer list by Gary Waddock at the end of last season.
The 24 year-old defender - who made just 22 appearances for the R's - could make his Seasiders debut against Brentford on Saturday.
Waddock believes the loan deal is good for both parties, commenting: "Evo will get first team football and some much needed match fitness so it's great for both him and the Club.
"I had a good look at him last season but I came to the decision to place him on the list and I stand by that.''
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876395,00.html
Blackpool Official Site
Pool Raid Championship
THE SEASIDERS today completed the six month loan signing of Queens Park Rangers defender Ian Evatt.
Evatt arrived at Loftus Road on a three year deal from Chesterfield in the summer of 2005 having put pen to paper in Majorca, when QPR chairman Gianni Paladini flew out to meet the no nonsense defender.
After falling out of favour with former Rangers manager Ian Holloway, Evatt was instantly recalled to the squad under caretaker manager Gary Waddock, going on to make 27 appearances in season 2005/06.
Standing at 6' 3" the former Derby defender is expected to make his Pool debut on Saturday when the Seasiders take on Brentford at Griffin Park.
We will have more reaction to this story shortly?
http://www.blackpoolfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10432~876417,00.html
Sky Duo fail in Blackstock bids
By Peter ORourke - 3 Aug 2006
Skysports.com understand Wolves and Queens Park Rangers have had bids rejected for Southampton's Dexter Blackstock.
Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday, along with Wolves and QPR, are thought to be chasing Blackstock.
The arrival of Bradley Wright-Phillips at Southampton has increased competition for places at St Mary's and suitors of Blackstock are hoping the South Coast club may be willing to let the forward leave.
Queens Park Rangers boss Gary Waddock has previously expressed his interest in Blackstock and he followed that up with a firm bid which was rejected by Southampton.
New Wolves manager Mick McCarthy is also looking to add to his striking options and tabled an offer for Blackstock.
Southampton are in no rush to let Blackstock go and are holding out for their full valuation of the player.
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=407537&CPID=10&clid=20&lid=2&title=Duo+fail+in+Blackstock+bids
BBC - Ferdinand's Concerns
Ferdinand troubled by QPR unease
By Chris Charles
QPR legend Les Ferdinand is hoping the club can put their problems off the pitch behind them as they get ready for the new season.
The striker, who scored 90 goals in 170 appearances for Rangers, is concerned stories of boardroom upheaval and mounting debts will take their toll.
Ferdinand told BBC Sport: "I'm upset with all the off-the-field antics at QPR that have overshadowed the club.
"I wish they could resolve this stuff and concentrate on the football."
Ferdinand, dubbed 'Sir Les' by the QPR fans during his eight-year spell at Loftus Road, admitted things were not looking great but had every confidence manager Gary Waddock and his assistant Alan McDonald would turn things around.
"My old team-mates Gary and Alan know all about Queens Park Rangers and I hope they can do the business," he said.
"They've got blue and white flowing through their blood so hopefully they can bring them back to where they need to be."
The bookmakers are not convinced, making QPR one of the the favourites to be relegated from the Championship after they failed to win any of their final 11 games last season.
A summer of discontent has seen the club's reputation dragged through the gutter, with a court clearing seven men of forcing then-director Gianni Paladini to resign at gunpoint during the home clash with Sheffield United last season.
Since then, Carlos Dunga has quit as a director after being asked to coach Brazil and Paladini, currently chairman of the west London side, has hinted that Rangers' main investor, Antonio Caliendo, could be ready to pull the plug.
Ferdinand, 39, remains upbeat about the future of the club where he made his name, saying: "I wish they'd stop talking about all the issues off the pitch and get back to talking about the great football Rangers traditionally play.
"If Gary and Alan are allowed to do their jobs, I really hope they can get QPR back into the Premiership as soon as possible."
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/5232594.stm
Official team photo...Ian Evatt joins Blackpool on a six months loan...Reportedly, QPR have a bid for Southampton's Blackstock...
QPR's Official Team Photo
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876331,00.html
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Evatt to Blackpool on Six month Loan
BY THE SEASIDE
Ian Evatt has joined Coca Cola League One side Blackpool on a six month loan deal.
The former Chesterfield and Derby defender today (Thursday) penned a six month loan deal with the Seasiders that will expire on January 3rd 2007.
Evatt joined the R's in June 2005 for £150,000, but after falling out of favour under former boss Ian Holloway, he was eventually placed on the transfer list by Gary Waddock at the end of last season.
The 24 year-old defender - who made just 22 appearances for the R's - could make his Seasiders debut against Brentford on Saturday.
Waddock believes the loan deal is good for both parties, commenting: "Evo will get first team football and some much needed match fitness so it's great for both him and the Club.
"I had a good look at him last season but I came to the decision to place him on the list and I stand by that.''
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876395,00.html
Blackpool Official Site
Pool Raid Championship
THE SEASIDERS today completed the six month loan signing of Queens Park Rangers defender Ian Evatt.
Evatt arrived at Loftus Road on a three year deal from Chesterfield in the summer of 2005 having put pen to paper in Majorca, when QPR chairman Gianni Paladini flew out to meet the no nonsense defender.
After falling out of favour with former Rangers manager Ian Holloway, Evatt was instantly recalled to the squad under caretaker manager Gary Waddock, going on to make 27 appearances in season 2005/06.
Standing at 6' 3" the former Derby defender is expected to make his Pool debut on Saturday when the Seasiders take on Brentford at Griffin Park.
We will have more reaction to this story shortly?
http://www.blackpoolfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10432~876417,00.html
Sky Duo fail in Blackstock bids
By Peter ORourke - 3 Aug 2006
Skysports.com understand Wolves and Queens Park Rangers have had bids rejected for Southampton's Dexter Blackstock.
Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday, along with Wolves and QPR, are thought to be chasing Blackstock.
The arrival of Bradley Wright-Phillips at Southampton has increased competition for places at St Mary's and suitors of Blackstock are hoping the South Coast club may be willing to let the forward leave.
Queens Park Rangers boss Gary Waddock has previously expressed his interest in Blackstock and he followed that up with a firm bid which was rejected by Southampton.
New Wolves manager Mick McCarthy is also looking to add to his striking options and tabled an offer for Blackstock.
Southampton are in no rush to let Blackstock go and are holding out for their full valuation of the player.
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=407537&CPID=10&clid=20&lid=2&title=Duo+fail+in+Blackstock+bids
BBC - Ferdinand's Concerns
Ferdinand troubled by QPR unease
By Chris Charles
QPR legend Les Ferdinand is hoping the club can put their problems off the pitch behind them as they get ready for the new season.
The striker, who scored 90 goals in 170 appearances for Rangers, is concerned stories of boardroom upheaval and mounting debts will take their toll.
Ferdinand told BBC Sport: "I'm upset with all the off-the-field antics at QPR that have overshadowed the club.
"I wish they could resolve this stuff and concentrate on the football."
Ferdinand, dubbed 'Sir Les' by the QPR fans during his eight-year spell at Loftus Road, admitted things were not looking great but had every confidence manager Gary Waddock and his assistant Alan McDonald would turn things around.
"My old team-mates Gary and Alan know all about Queens Park Rangers and I hope they can do the business," he said.
"They've got blue and white flowing through their blood so hopefully they can bring them back to where they need to be."
The bookmakers are not convinced, making QPR one of the the favourites to be relegated from the Championship after they failed to win any of their final 11 games last season.
A summer of discontent has seen the club's reputation dragged through the gutter, with a court clearing seven men of forcing then-director Gianni Paladini to resign at gunpoint during the home clash with Sheffield United last season.
Since then, Carlos Dunga has quit as a director after being asked to coach Brazil and Paladini, currently chairman of the west London side, has hinted that Rangers' main investor, Antonio Caliendo, could be ready to pull the plug.
Ferdinand, 39, remains upbeat about the future of the club where he made his name, saying: "I wish they'd stop talking about all the issues off the pitch and get back to talking about the great football Rangers traditionally play.
"If Gary and Alan are allowed to do their jobs, I really hope they can get QPR back into the Premiership as soon as possible."
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/5232594.stm
Assessing QPR's 2006/07 Prospects
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Guardian August 4, 2006
Team by team, how the football season shapes up
Your guide to the Championship hopefuls and hapless
Queens Park Rangers
Manager Gary Waddock
Captain Kevin Gallen
2005-06 League 21st, FA Cup 3rd rd, League Cup 1st rd.
Key man Nick Ward The 21-year-old has caught the eye in his first pre-season at QPR. The attacking central midfielder was called into an Australia squad in February.
Prediction Oscurity Mid-table would be decent for a club who finished one place above the drop last season. A regimented, punishing pre-season is expected to reap rewards. Commentator's kit Last month Dunga became the first director to leave Loftus Road to take over as Brazil coach.
In Egutu Oliseh (La Louvière) free, Nick Ward (Perth Glory) free, Adam Czerkas (Odra Wodzislaw) season loan, Armel Tchakounte (Kitchee) free, Damion Stewart (Harbour View) free.
Out Richard Langley (Luton) free, Dean Sturridge (Kidderminster) free, Ugo Ukah released, George Santos released.
http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,,1836823,00.html
Telegraph
Manager: Gary Waddock (July 2006).
In: Damion Stewart (Harbour View, U), Egutu Oliseh (La Louviere), Adam Czerkas (Odra Wodzislaw), Armel Tchakounte (Carshalton), Nick Ward (Perth Glory, U).
Out: Marcus Bean (Blackpool), Richard Langley (Luton), Dean Sturridge (Kidderminster), Ugo Ukah (Nouresa Calcio).
Released: Marcin Kus, George Santos, Sammy Youssef.
Squad numbers: 1 Simon Royce, 2 Marcus Bignot, 3 Mauro Milanese, 4 Ian Evatt, 5 Danny Shittu, 6 Tom Doherty, 7 Matthew Rose, 8 Marc Bircham, 9 Nick Ward, 10 Kevin Gallen, 11 Gareth Ainsworth, 12 Jake Cole, 14 Martin Rowlands, 15 Dominic Shimmin, 16 Steve Lomas, 17 Lee Cook, 18 Stefan Moore, 19 Armel Tchakounte, 20 Scott Donnelly, 21 Paul Jones, 22 Shabazz Baidoo, 23 Stefan Bailey, 24 Patrick Kanyuka, 25 Damion Stewart, 26 Sean Thomas, 27 Egutu Oliseh, 28 Adam Czerkas, 29 Paul Furlong, 30 Mark Nygaard, 34 Matthew Hislop, 35 Jonathan Munday.
Website: www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk
Odds: C: 100-1, P: 40-1, R: 2-1.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2006/08/04/sfngui04.xml&page=9
Guardian August 4, 2006
Team by team, how the football season shapes up
Your guide to the Championship hopefuls and hapless
Queens Park Rangers
Manager Gary Waddock
Captain Kevin Gallen
2005-06 League 21st, FA Cup 3rd rd, League Cup 1st rd.
Key man Nick Ward The 21-year-old has caught the eye in his first pre-season at QPR. The attacking central midfielder was called into an Australia squad in February.
Prediction Oscurity Mid-table would be decent for a club who finished one place above the drop last season. A regimented, punishing pre-season is expected to reap rewards. Commentator's kit Last month Dunga became the first director to leave Loftus Road to take over as Brazil coach.
In Egutu Oliseh (La Louvière) free, Nick Ward (Perth Glory) free, Adam Czerkas (Odra Wodzislaw) season loan, Armel Tchakounte (Kitchee) free, Damion Stewart (Harbour View) free.
Out Richard Langley (Luton) free, Dean Sturridge (Kidderminster) free, Ugo Ukah released, George Santos released.
http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,,1836823,00.html
Telegraph
Manager: Gary Waddock (July 2006).
In: Damion Stewart (Harbour View, U), Egutu Oliseh (La Louviere), Adam Czerkas (Odra Wodzislaw), Armel Tchakounte (Carshalton), Nick Ward (Perth Glory, U).
Out: Marcus Bean (Blackpool), Richard Langley (Luton), Dean Sturridge (Kidderminster), Ugo Ukah (Nouresa Calcio).
Released: Marcin Kus, George Santos, Sammy Youssef.
Squad numbers: 1 Simon Royce, 2 Marcus Bignot, 3 Mauro Milanese, 4 Ian Evatt, 5 Danny Shittu, 6 Tom Doherty, 7 Matthew Rose, 8 Marc Bircham, 9 Nick Ward, 10 Kevin Gallen, 11 Gareth Ainsworth, 12 Jake Cole, 14 Martin Rowlands, 15 Dominic Shimmin, 16 Steve Lomas, 17 Lee Cook, 18 Stefan Moore, 19 Armel Tchakounte, 20 Scott Donnelly, 21 Paul Jones, 22 Shabazz Baidoo, 23 Stefan Bailey, 24 Patrick Kanyuka, 25 Damion Stewart, 26 Sean Thomas, 27 Egutu Oliseh, 28 Adam Czerkas, 29 Paul Furlong, 30 Mark Nygaard, 34 Matthew Hislop, 35 Jonathan Munday.
Website: www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk
Odds: C: 100-1, P: 40-1, R: 2-1.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2006/08/04/sfngui04.xml&page=9
QPR Accept WBA's Bid for Danny Shittu (Now subject to Personal Terms/Medicall)
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So QPR accept WBA's offer. QPR Shout £3million ...WBA proclaim £1.5...Both agree there are possible future payments. Have to see what the criteria are. The last two "major" players I recall QPR selling within days of the start of a new season: Dave Thomas back in 1977/78 and Paul Goddard, back in 1980/81. Now it depends on a medical and personal terms.
The sale is not exactly a complete surprise although Paladini has been quoted as saying a number of things. July 27 -skysports reported "...Queens Park Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini has hinted that West Bromwich Albion are close to meeting his side's asking price for Danny Shittu.... "If we have to wait for the money in instalments, then that's fine, but I always said the fee would be £3 million.
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?HLID=405935&CPID=10&title=Rangers+drop+Shittu+hint&lid=&channel=Football_Home&f=rss&clid=35#
QPR Official Site - Deal Agreed
QPR have reached agreement with fellow Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion for the £3million transfer of Dan Shittu.
The player is due to travel to The Hawthorns on Friday to undergo a medical and discuss personal terms.
The overall deal is worth £3million in total and the R's have negotiated a 10 per-cent sell on clause for any future transfer involving the player.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876659,00.html
West Bromwich Albion Official Site
QPR accept £1.5m Shittu bid
ALBION have had a £1.5million offer accepted by QPR for central defender Dan Shittu.
The fee could rise to £3million if certain criteria are met.
Nigerian international Shittu will travel to the Black Country tomorrow (Friday) to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical.
Stay tuned http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10366~876737,00.html?ptvParm=
BBC
QPR accept Baggies bid for Shittu
Danny Shittu
Shittu has made more than 160 league appearances for QPR
QPR have accepted an initial offer of £1.5m from West Bromwich Albion for defender Danny Shittu.
The Baggies have struck a deal which could rise to £3m according to his performance and that of the club.
The 25-year-old is set to travel to the Hawthorns on Friday discuss personal terms and undergo a medical.
WBA boss Bryan Robson wants to bring in defensive cover for Neil Clement and Thomas Gaardsoe who will both miss the start of the season through injury.
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini had previously insisted his club would not accept less than £3m for defender Danny Shittu.
Watford had a bid for the giant centre-back rejected.
Shittu moved to Loftus Road from Charlton in 2002 in a £350,000 deal funded by QPR fans Matthew and Alex Winton.
He has since made 162 league appearances and is a firm favourite among supporters.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/5244068.stm
SKY - QPR accept Shittu bid
By Alex Dunn - Created on 3 Aug 2006
West Bromwich Albion have agreed a fee for Queens Park Rangers defender Danny Shittu.
After a period of negotiation between the Championship rivals an accord has been struck whereby West Brom will pay an initial fee of £1.5 million.
The fee could eventually rise to £3 million depending on various criteria that will be appearance and success related.
success related.
Shittu, an imposing central defender, has established himself as one of the more powerful performers outside of the top flight and is seen as an ideal signing by Baggies boss Bryan Robson.
West Brom defensive duo Neil Clement and Thomas Gaardsoe are currently struggling with injury and Robson has previously stated a desire to add more competition to his ranks.
Shittu will travel to the Midlands on Friday for a medical and to discuss personal terms. http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=407699&CPID=10&clid=35&lid=2&title=QPR+accept+Shittu+bid#
So QPR accept WBA's offer. QPR Shout £3million ...WBA proclaim £1.5...Both agree there are possible future payments. Have to see what the criteria are. The last two "major" players I recall QPR selling within days of the start of a new season: Dave Thomas back in 1977/78 and Paul Goddard, back in 1980/81. Now it depends on a medical and personal terms.
The sale is not exactly a complete surprise although Paladini has been quoted as saying a number of things. July 27 -skysports reported "...Queens Park Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini has hinted that West Bromwich Albion are close to meeting his side's asking price for Danny Shittu.... "If we have to wait for the money in instalments, then that's fine, but I always said the fee would be £3 million.
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?HLID=405935&CPID=10&title=Rangers+drop+Shittu+hint&lid=&channel=Football_Home&f=rss&clid=35#
QPR Official Site - Deal Agreed
QPR have reached agreement with fellow Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion for the £3million transfer of Dan Shittu.
The player is due to travel to The Hawthorns on Friday to undergo a medical and discuss personal terms.
The overall deal is worth £3million in total and the R's have negotiated a 10 per-cent sell on clause for any future transfer involving the player.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~876659,00.html
West Bromwich Albion Official Site
QPR accept £1.5m Shittu bid
ALBION have had a £1.5million offer accepted by QPR for central defender Dan Shittu.
The fee could rise to £3million if certain criteria are met.
Nigerian international Shittu will travel to the Black Country tomorrow (Friday) to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical.
Stay tuned http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10366~876737,00.html?ptvParm=
BBC
QPR accept Baggies bid for Shittu
Danny Shittu
Shittu has made more than 160 league appearances for QPR
QPR have accepted an initial offer of £1.5m from West Bromwich Albion for defender Danny Shittu.
The Baggies have struck a deal which could rise to £3m according to his performance and that of the club.
The 25-year-old is set to travel to the Hawthorns on Friday discuss personal terms and undergo a medical.
WBA boss Bryan Robson wants to bring in defensive cover for Neil Clement and Thomas Gaardsoe who will both miss the start of the season through injury.
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini had previously insisted his club would not accept less than £3m for defender Danny Shittu.
Watford had a bid for the giant centre-back rejected.
Shittu moved to Loftus Road from Charlton in 2002 in a £350,000 deal funded by QPR fans Matthew and Alex Winton.
He has since made 162 league appearances and is a firm favourite among supporters.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/5244068.stm
SKY - QPR accept Shittu bid
By Alex Dunn - Created on 3 Aug 2006
West Bromwich Albion have agreed a fee for Queens Park Rangers defender Danny Shittu.
After a period of negotiation between the Championship rivals an accord has been struck whereby West Brom will pay an initial fee of £1.5 million.
The fee could eventually rise to £3 million depending on various criteria that will be appearance and success related.
success related.
Shittu, an imposing central defender, has established himself as one of the more powerful performers outside of the top flight and is seen as an ideal signing by Baggies boss Bryan Robson.
West Brom defensive duo Neil Clement and Thomas Gaardsoe are currently struggling with injury and Robson has previously stated a desire to add more competition to his ranks.
Shittu will travel to the Midlands on Friday for a medical and to discuss personal terms. http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=407699&CPID=10&clid=35&lid=2&title=QPR+accept+Shittu+bid#
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Ian Holloway Profiled/Interviewed
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From the Independent "...I've sat in my garden being fully paid for five months. I painted my house, every room, got it ready to sell. I tidied the garden, did a fair bit of TV work but I got very frustrated watching my team slipping down the League. Amazingly, I got blamed for it even though I wasn't there, but that's life."
Independent/Stuart Robertson - August 3, 2006
Holloway finds relaxed philosophy: no bitchers, moaners or whingers
"..Employ Ian Holloway and you don't just get a manager, you also get one of the cult figures of the modern game thrown into the bargain. A simple internet search under the term "Ollyism" results in numerous examples of those colourful utterances that have made the new Plymouth manager's appearances among the most anticipated of post-match briefings.
However, while the likes of "I couldn't be more chuffed if I were a badger at the start of the mating season" may cause mirth, there is one thing that Holloway is serious about and that is his desire to become the first man to lead Devonshire's finest to those never-before-trodden pastures known as the Premiership....."
Sturrock had set sail for Southampton and been replaced by fellow Scot Bobby Williamson by the time Holloway arrived at Home Park in 2004 with his Queen's Park Rangers side vying with the hosts for the right to enter the Championship with bragging rights as top dogs. A header from that old Argyle warhorse Micky Evans sent Plymouth on their way to title- winning success ahead of Holloway's men, but Home Park's glory days were soon to draw to an end as the Championship prepared to deliver a large slice of reality.....
The Pulis reign, however, always had a certain stopgap feel about it and it was no surprise when he returned to the Potteries at the end of the season, paving the way for Holloway to put away his lawnmower, dust off his tracksuit and return to management from the gardening leave on which he had been placed at Loftus Road when linked with the Leicester job earlier in the year.
"I've only ever been out of work for three weeks before that," says Holloway. "I've sat in my garden being fully paid for five months. I painted my house, every room, got it ready to sell. I tidied the garden, did a fair bit of TV work but I got very frustrated watching my team slipping down the League. Amazingly, I got blamed for it even though I wasn't there, but that's life."
The fact that Holloway can take such a philosophical view is probably thanks to what he agrees was one of the pivotal moments of his life, his appearance on the BBC programme Stress Test, which laid bare the anger management issues which were having such a destructive effect on his home life.
"To be a 41-year-old, as I was at the time, and to be still ranting and raving when I didn't get what I wanted, I felt pretty childish," Holloway recalls. "And what a terrible example to your own children when they can't even hear you [Holloway's three daughters are all deaf] and all they see is you gesticulating like a complete madman. The last thing I wanted was that and it's thanks to that programme that I'm a much better human being. I still don't like it when I don't get what I want, but now I don't take it out on the people around me. All I know is that I've just lost to Bristol Rovers and I've just had the nicest weekend I've had in a long time, so I am learning."
And not just learning, teaching as well, for it was the latter that proved one of the biggest lures in terms of drawing Holloway back into the dugout.
"I've sat there for months thinking, 'Do I want to do this, do I want to go and be judged all the time?' And, to be honest, the answer is yeah, because I miss being with people. I see it as though I'm a teacher and I need to teach people what is right. I get much more out of teaching others than teaching myself because I was always very critical of my own performances and what I was."
In the past, Plymouth's location as the Football League's most south-westerly outpost has created problems in attracting pupils on to the school bus, let alone into the classroom, but Holloway is hopeful that his own reputation as a player at the highest level and later in terms of working with up-and-coming players such as Nathan Ellington, Bobby Zamora and Jason Roberts will overcome the usual "too far to travel" type excuses.
"Yes, we've got further to travel than other people but there are trains, there are planes - it's a very changing world we live in. If that was a problem in the past, I don't think it is now. The way I look at it is that it made me want to come out of my garden and I was sat there being paid. Although I wanted the job, I'm not stupid. It had to be right."
And in terms of those who follow Holloway to the West Country, what can they expect? The conductor may not be waving his arms quite as much but anyone expecting a relaxing trip to the seaside would be very wrong. "I don't like people who wear a BSE T-shirt [blame someone else], I won't have that. I don't want BMWs [bitchers, moaners and whingers]. I want people who will stand up and say, 'Yeah I was wrong there and I should have done this or should have done that'. Everyone makes one mistake. If you make the same mistake twice, you're no good for me and you'll be out.
"Some of the higher wages flying around make the public averse to these bigwig superstars but at our level they're down-to-earth, honest boys trying to make a living, trying to be the best they can so I'm someone who will tell them what they need to hear, not what they want to hear, and keep it real.
"As long as they realise that and give me a positive straight away - any time a negative happens I want a positive - I don't think I'm that bad to play for."
Ollyisms: The world according to Ian Holloway .....
http://sport.independent.co.uk/football/coca_cola/article1211241.ece
From the Independent "...I've sat in my garden being fully paid for five months. I painted my house, every room, got it ready to sell. I tidied the garden, did a fair bit of TV work but I got very frustrated watching my team slipping down the League. Amazingly, I got blamed for it even though I wasn't there, but that's life."
Independent/Stuart Robertson - August 3, 2006
Holloway finds relaxed philosophy: no bitchers, moaners or whingers
"..Employ Ian Holloway and you don't just get a manager, you also get one of the cult figures of the modern game thrown into the bargain. A simple internet search under the term "Ollyism" results in numerous examples of those colourful utterances that have made the new Plymouth manager's appearances among the most anticipated of post-match briefings.
However, while the likes of "I couldn't be more chuffed if I were a badger at the start of the mating season" may cause mirth, there is one thing that Holloway is serious about and that is his desire to become the first man to lead Devonshire's finest to those never-before-trodden pastures known as the Premiership....."
Sturrock had set sail for Southampton and been replaced by fellow Scot Bobby Williamson by the time Holloway arrived at Home Park in 2004 with his Queen's Park Rangers side vying with the hosts for the right to enter the Championship with bragging rights as top dogs. A header from that old Argyle warhorse Micky Evans sent Plymouth on their way to title- winning success ahead of Holloway's men, but Home Park's glory days were soon to draw to an end as the Championship prepared to deliver a large slice of reality.....
The Pulis reign, however, always had a certain stopgap feel about it and it was no surprise when he returned to the Potteries at the end of the season, paving the way for Holloway to put away his lawnmower, dust off his tracksuit and return to management from the gardening leave on which he had been placed at Loftus Road when linked with the Leicester job earlier in the year.
"I've only ever been out of work for three weeks before that," says Holloway. "I've sat in my garden being fully paid for five months. I painted my house, every room, got it ready to sell. I tidied the garden, did a fair bit of TV work but I got very frustrated watching my team slipping down the League. Amazingly, I got blamed for it even though I wasn't there, but that's life."
The fact that Holloway can take such a philosophical view is probably thanks to what he agrees was one of the pivotal moments of his life, his appearance on the BBC programme Stress Test, which laid bare the anger management issues which were having such a destructive effect on his home life.
"To be a 41-year-old, as I was at the time, and to be still ranting and raving when I didn't get what I wanted, I felt pretty childish," Holloway recalls. "And what a terrible example to your own children when they can't even hear you [Holloway's three daughters are all deaf] and all they see is you gesticulating like a complete madman. The last thing I wanted was that and it's thanks to that programme that I'm a much better human being. I still don't like it when I don't get what I want, but now I don't take it out on the people around me. All I know is that I've just lost to Bristol Rovers and I've just had the nicest weekend I've had in a long time, so I am learning."
And not just learning, teaching as well, for it was the latter that proved one of the biggest lures in terms of drawing Holloway back into the dugout.
"I've sat there for months thinking, 'Do I want to do this, do I want to go and be judged all the time?' And, to be honest, the answer is yeah, because I miss being with people. I see it as though I'm a teacher and I need to teach people what is right. I get much more out of teaching others than teaching myself because I was always very critical of my own performances and what I was."
In the past, Plymouth's location as the Football League's most south-westerly outpost has created problems in attracting pupils on to the school bus, let alone into the classroom, but Holloway is hopeful that his own reputation as a player at the highest level and later in terms of working with up-and-coming players such as Nathan Ellington, Bobby Zamora and Jason Roberts will overcome the usual "too far to travel" type excuses.
"Yes, we've got further to travel than other people but there are trains, there are planes - it's a very changing world we live in. If that was a problem in the past, I don't think it is now. The way I look at it is that it made me want to come out of my garden and I was sat there being paid. Although I wanted the job, I'm not stupid. It had to be right."
And in terms of those who follow Holloway to the West Country, what can they expect? The conductor may not be waving his arms quite as much but anyone expecting a relaxing trip to the seaside would be very wrong. "I don't like people who wear a BSE T-shirt [blame someone else], I won't have that. I don't want BMWs [bitchers, moaners and whingers]. I want people who will stand up and say, 'Yeah I was wrong there and I should have done this or should have done that'. Everyone makes one mistake. If you make the same mistake twice, you're no good for me and you'll be out.
"Some of the higher wages flying around make the public averse to these bigwig superstars but at our level they're down-to-earth, honest boys trying to make a living, trying to be the best they can so I'm someone who will tell them what they need to hear, not what they want to hear, and keep it real.
"As long as they realise that and give me a positive straight away - any time a negative happens I want a positive - I don't think I'm that bad to play for."
Ollyisms: The world according to Ian Holloway .....
http://sport.independent.co.uk/football/coca_cola/article1211241.ece
Birthdays Today....Lee Cook Turns 24...Ossie Ardiles Turns 54
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Lee Cook
Born August 3, 1982
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=12264
Ossie Ardiles
Born August 3, 1952
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=55
Lee Cook
Born August 3, 1982
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=12264
Ossie Ardiles
Born August 3, 1952
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=55
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Official Site Report on QPR XI's 2-0 Defeat at Lewes
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[For more about Lewes Football club, see http://www.lewesfc.com ]
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
[For more about Lewes Football club, see http://www.lewesfc.com ]
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SPOT OF WOE
The combative midfielder was given his marching orders in the first half, for two bookable offences, on a night to forget for the R's.
In truth, his dismissal only served to compound Rangers' woes, who handed transfer listed trio Ian Evatt, Matt Hislop and Stefan Moore yet another chance to shine.
R's Reserve Team manager Justin Skinner was understandably disappointed with the result, commenting: "Of course it was a setback. It looked like being a decent enough game after the first 20 minutes, but the referee spoilt it with his decision to give a soft penalty.
"Sean Thomas clearly got two hands to the ball, but the referee pointed straight to the spot. The lads over-reacted a little and Tommy bore the brunt of it with a second booking.''
Aside from the result though, Skinner believes the run-out will stand the players in good stead for the start of the season.
"As with all matches at this time of year, it's all about preparation,'' he told qpr.co.uk.
"Some of the lads have got some much needed game time under their belts and that can only add to the competition for places.''
QPR XI: Thomas, Goode, Munday, Evatt, Hislop, Tchakounte, Doherty, Bailey, Baidoo, Donnelly, Moore.
Subs (all used): R Jones, trialist, Cousins, Howell, Rose.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~875701,00.html
QPR's Prospects & Plymouth. ..Coral: Plymouth 5/6 odds to finish ahead of QPR
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SPORTING LIFE FANZINE
Will Quinn's arrival inspire Sunderland? CLOSE RACE TO ESCAPE THE CHAMPIONSHIP
By Brendan McLoughlin, PA Sport
"...If last season's late form is anything to go by, QPR are already relegated. Defeat in six of their final seven games suggests new boss Gary Waddock has his work cut out, just like predecessor Ian Holloway - sent on gardening leave by Rangers in February - and now Plymouth manager. A new striker was first on Holloway's list as he snapped up Sylvain Ebanks-Blake from Manchester United and he will hope that will help the Pilgrims survive again.
http://www.sportinglife.com/fanzine/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/07/26/SOCCER_Pre-season_Championship_O.html
Coral - Championship Betting PLymouth
14th last season, Plymouth Argyle are under new management following Tony Pulis’s return to Stoke City.
New boss Ian Holloway has beefed up his attack with the signings of Barry Hayles from Millwall, and Manchester United youngster Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, veteran frontman Micky Evans leaving for Torquay.
The Pilgrims are 80/1 with Coral to win the Championship, 25/1 to be promoted and 5/2 to be relegated.
Striker Nick Chadwick is 125/1 to be the division’s top goalscorer while in Coral’s match bet market, Plymouth are 5/6 to finish ahead of Ian Holloway’s old club QPR.
http://www.squarefootball.net/article/betting.asp?bid=1580
SPORTING LIFE FANZINE
Will Quinn's arrival inspire Sunderland? CLOSE RACE TO ESCAPE THE CHAMPIONSHIP
By Brendan McLoughlin, PA Sport
"...If last season's late form is anything to go by, QPR are already relegated. Defeat in six of their final seven games suggests new boss Gary Waddock has his work cut out, just like predecessor Ian Holloway - sent on gardening leave by Rangers in February - and now Plymouth manager. A new striker was first on Holloway's list as he snapped up Sylvain Ebanks-Blake from Manchester United and he will hope that will help the Pilgrims survive again.
http://www.sportinglife.com/fanzine/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/07/26/SOCCER_Pre-season_Championship_O.html
Coral - Championship Betting PLymouth
14th last season, Plymouth Argyle are under new management following Tony Pulis’s return to Stoke City.
New boss Ian Holloway has beefed up his attack with the signings of Barry Hayles from Millwall, and Manchester United youngster Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, veteran frontman Micky Evans leaving for Torquay.
The Pilgrims are 80/1 with Coral to win the Championship, 25/1 to be promoted and 5/2 to be relegated.
Striker Nick Chadwick is 125/1 to be the division’s top goalscorer while in Coral’s match bet market, Plymouth are 5/6 to finish ahead of Ian Holloway’s old club QPR.
http://www.squarefootball.net/article/betting.asp?bid=1580
BBC's Championship Season Preview - QPR
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BBC - The Championship form guide
QPR
"...BBC Sport verdict: New boss Gary Waddock had a difficult introduction to the job last season. But although results were bad, some performances showed promise. Waddock has the club in his blood and has pledged to play attractive football too. He has strengthened his squad over the summer but needs a good start to avoid a lengthy battle against the drop.
Key man: Nick Ward. Big things are expected from this Aussie youngster.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/5175924.stm
BBC - The Championship form guide
QPR
"...BBC Sport verdict: New boss Gary Waddock had a difficult introduction to the job last season. But although results were bad, some performances showed promise. Waddock has the club in his blood and has pledged to play attractive football too. He has strengthened his squad over the summer but needs a good start to avoid a lengthy battle against the drop.
Key man: Nick Ward. Big things are expected from this Aussie youngster.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/5175924.stm
Ex-QPR's "1976 Championship" Squad, Ron Abbott & Peter Eastoe Turn 53
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Ron Abbott
Born August 2, 1953. Ron Abbott began as a "big/strong" center forward and there had been big hopes about his future (along with fellow forward, Alan Mayes). Abbott made his debut in August 1973 away at West Ham, scoring. Over the next few years, Abbott played a handful of games as a center back (including in QPR amazing 5-1 win at then Champions Derby in August 1976...almost exactly 30 years ago. In that game, Abbott played alongside another youngster, Tony Tagg.) http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=2
Peter Eastoe..
Also born August 2, 1953, Peter. Eastoe was signed from Swindon in March 1976 (our "Championship" Season) for about 90,000, with Don Rogers returning to Swindon. The ex-Wolves forward didn't play in that Championship season, and the next season slowly got into the team...playing in our League Cup Semi-Final "playoff" (defeat) versus Aston Villa at Highbury (Brian Little hattrick!) Eastoe was transferred to Everton in March 1979 (in our Steve Burtenhaw relegation season) in a straight swop for Everton's ex- Blackpool forward, Mickey Walsh. http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=659
Ron Abbott
Born August 2, 1953. Ron Abbott began as a "big/strong" center forward and there had been big hopes about his future (along with fellow forward, Alan Mayes). Abbott made his debut in August 1973 away at West Ham, scoring. Over the next few years, Abbott played a handful of games as a center back (including in QPR amazing 5-1 win at then Champions Derby in August 1976...almost exactly 30 years ago. In that game, Abbott played alongside another youngster, Tony Tagg.) http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=2
Peter Eastoe..
Also born August 2, 1953, Peter. Eastoe was signed from Swindon in March 1976 (our "Championship" Season) for about 90,000, with Don Rogers returning to Swindon. The ex-Wolves forward didn't play in that Championship season, and the next season slowly got into the team...playing in our League Cup Semi-Final "playoff" (defeat) versus Aston Villa at Highbury (Brian Little hattrick!) Eastoe was transferred to Everton in March 1979 (in our Steve Burtenhaw relegation season) in a straight swop for Everton's ex- Blackpool forward, Mickey Walsh. http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=659
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Chairman Paladini Denounces Few who "seem intent on Damaging Team Morale and destroying the club"
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OFFICIAL SITE - STATEMENT FROM CHAIRMAN, GIANNI PALADINI
Having just returned from the R's pre-season tour of Italy, QPR Chairman Gianni Paladini can't wait for the big kick-off.
"The trip to Sorrento was a great success, providing the players and coaching staff with an opportunity for some intense training and team bonding.
"Despite the players staying in one of the town's grandest hotels, and having been fitted with brand new QPR tailor-made suits for every player, the trip paid for itself and the Club even managed to make a tiny profit from it.
"Gary, Macca and the coaching staff are now ready for the new season. I believe we have a much improved squad, with summer signings including Armel Tchakounte, Jamaican international defender Damion Stewart, Egutu Oliseh, Adam Czerkas and the much talked about Nicky Ward, and the important re-signing of Lee Cook for two more years.
"Many of last season's first team have improved over pre-season and it has been particularly pleasing to see Martin Rowlands back to full fitness. A number of the youth squad have made tremendous steps forward during pre-season and will be fighting for places in Gary's first team.
"It is frustrating that, despite all the hard work everyone has been doing during pre-season, a tiny minority of people seem intent on damaging team morale and destroying the Club in the run up to our important first game.
"Not only have they once again invented wholly false rumours about the state of the Club, but unfortunately a couple of journalists with a record of writing stories against QPR, and with links to some of the individuals intent on destabilising the Club, have blown up these rumours and made up stories from nothing.
"Last week it was suggested in some of the press that we were putting QPR up for sale. Unfortunately the journalists responsible for this story failed to even check the official statement from Antonio Caliendo, Chairman of Holdings, on the Club's official website, making clear the Board's continued commitment to QPR.
"I have always said if someone with QPR's best interests at heart wants to come along and buy out the existing Board we would not stand in their way. Nothing has changed and nobody has come forward. We will continue to seek out new investors to take the Club even further forward, but as Antonio made clear last week, we are committed to QPR.
"The Club is in a better financial position than it has been in for a number of years. Things are still tough, but we have reduced the annual debt by millions and intend to reduce it further. Yet ridiculous rumours still seem to be invented by a few people for reasons beyond me.
"The latest is the absurd rumour suggested on a message board that the players were locked out of the Harlington training ground, when in fact Gary Waddock had just given them the day off as they had only recently arrived back from a busy schedule in Italy.
"The same newspaper that had to apologise for a series of inaccurate stories about me last season, the Evening Standard, then chose to repeat this wholly false rumour as fact without even checking with me, the coaching staff, or even Imperial College - the owners of the training ground.
"In an article by a journalist named Wayne Vesey, under the headline 'Locked-out Rangers are unable to train' the Standard claimed that the Club was locked out of the training ground on Monday. Such a clearly false statement damages the reputation of the Club, and the morale of the players and supporters. I have been advised it is libellous and our lawyers will be contacting the Standard immediately to demand a retraction.
"QPR fans will ask themselves why should people invent such rumours? The purpose can only be to destabilise the Club and to injure the morale of players and fans just days before the season kicks off. The Club will not allow another season to be derailed by these people.
"The Board, Gary Waddock and the coaching staff, and the players and other members of staff, are all united in our focus to move this great club forward and to achieve success this season on the pitch. We believe we have the squad and the resources to do so. We will not allow a tiny group of people, driven by an agenda that has nothing to do with football, to destroy this Club.
"I urge all fans to treat such rumour-mongers with the contempt and scepticism they deserve. They have been claiming we would go into administration every week for the past year, and they never admit they are wrong when we don't.
"They claimed we were locked out of the training ground before and even that the groundsmen would not cut the grass at the stadium. They predicted we would spend all the Club's money on agents' fees when we have spent less than nearly any other club in this division. They predicted we would sell off Loftus Road and all our best players because we could not afford their wages.
"Just yesterday they claimed we were locked out of the training ground because we could not afford the rent; but today, as scheduled, our players are training at the training ground. On each and every occasion their rumours have been proven false.
"As I believe you say in England, when someone cries wolf so many times, people stop listening. But every time the rumour-mongers are proven wrong they invent another rumour, so desperate to be proven right and for the Club to fail.
"For the last time I say to those who's criticism of the Board has developed into an agenda to undermine the Club, if you know of a better alternative to take QPR forward with the necessary funding to support it, then please let us know. Otherwise stop pursuing a divisive and destructive agenda. The Board, the players and staff and the thousands of fans of QPR will not allow a small selfish group to ruin the season for the rest of us.
"I know most QPR fans will be sensible enough to take every rumour and press speculation with a hefty pinch of salt. We seem to be in the 'silly season' right now - only today I saw an article in the Mirror claiming I had rejected an offer of £3million for Danny Shittu from Wolves and would only sell him for £10 million.
"The story is, of course, rubbish. As I have said all along, we don't want to sell Danny, but if someone comes in with an offer of £3million or above it will be up to him to decide. Nobody has made such an offer and so Danny will be starting the season with us.
"So as we prepare for the opening game at Burnley on Saturday, and then two exciting home games against Leeds United and newly promoted Southend United, I cannot wait for the football to start and for the players to do the talking on the pitch."And I urge every single QPR fan to get fully behind Gary and the boys and help them to turn this into a glorious season. Come on You R's!'' Gianni Paladini
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~875457,00.html
OFFICIAL SITE STATEMENT RE GROUND CLOSING
CLUB STATEMENT Queens Park Rangers Football Club would like to issue the following statement to clear the air over yet more wildly inaccurate reporting in the press and on various message boards.QPR staff were admitted to the training ground on Monday. No players were refused admittance to the ground yesterday. This is because no players turned up as it had been decided to give them an extra day off after their pre-season tour to Italy. The players are back at the training ground today (Tuesday) working hard for the opening match of the season at Turf Moor on Saturday. We can confirm that there was no Portsmouth player on trial with the Club either yesterday or today. It should also be noted that the items printed in the press had not been checked with either QPR or Imperial College before being published.And remember... www.qpr.co.uk is the R's official website - where all the breaking news comes first and fastest.http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~875417,00.html
OFFICIAL SITE - STATEMENT FROM CHAIRMAN, GIANNI PALADINI
Having just returned from the R's pre-season tour of Italy, QPR Chairman Gianni Paladini can't wait for the big kick-off.
"The trip to Sorrento was a great success, providing the players and coaching staff with an opportunity for some intense training and team bonding.
"Despite the players staying in one of the town's grandest hotels, and having been fitted with brand new QPR tailor-made suits for every player, the trip paid for itself and the Club even managed to make a tiny profit from it.
"Gary, Macca and the coaching staff are now ready for the new season. I believe we have a much improved squad, with summer signings including Armel Tchakounte, Jamaican international defender Damion Stewart, Egutu Oliseh, Adam Czerkas and the much talked about Nicky Ward, and the important re-signing of Lee Cook for two more years.
"Many of last season's first team have improved over pre-season and it has been particularly pleasing to see Martin Rowlands back to full fitness. A number of the youth squad have made tremendous steps forward during pre-season and will be fighting for places in Gary's first team.
"It is frustrating that, despite all the hard work everyone has been doing during pre-season, a tiny minority of people seem intent on damaging team morale and destroying the Club in the run up to our important first game.
"Not only have they once again invented wholly false rumours about the state of the Club, but unfortunately a couple of journalists with a record of writing stories against QPR, and with links to some of the individuals intent on destabilising the Club, have blown up these rumours and made up stories from nothing.
"Last week it was suggested in some of the press that we were putting QPR up for sale. Unfortunately the journalists responsible for this story failed to even check the official statement from Antonio Caliendo, Chairman of Holdings, on the Club's official website, making clear the Board's continued commitment to QPR.
"I have always said if someone with QPR's best interests at heart wants to come along and buy out the existing Board we would not stand in their way. Nothing has changed and nobody has come forward. We will continue to seek out new investors to take the Club even further forward, but as Antonio made clear last week, we are committed to QPR.
"The Club is in a better financial position than it has been in for a number of years. Things are still tough, but we have reduced the annual debt by millions and intend to reduce it further. Yet ridiculous rumours still seem to be invented by a few people for reasons beyond me.
"The latest is the absurd rumour suggested on a message board that the players were locked out of the Harlington training ground, when in fact Gary Waddock had just given them the day off as they had only recently arrived back from a busy schedule in Italy.
"The same newspaper that had to apologise for a series of inaccurate stories about me last season, the Evening Standard, then chose to repeat this wholly false rumour as fact without even checking with me, the coaching staff, or even Imperial College - the owners of the training ground.
"In an article by a journalist named Wayne Vesey, under the headline 'Locked-out Rangers are unable to train' the Standard claimed that the Club was locked out of the training ground on Monday. Such a clearly false statement damages the reputation of the Club, and the morale of the players and supporters. I have been advised it is libellous and our lawyers will be contacting the Standard immediately to demand a retraction.
"QPR fans will ask themselves why should people invent such rumours? The purpose can only be to destabilise the Club and to injure the morale of players and fans just days before the season kicks off. The Club will not allow another season to be derailed by these people.
"The Board, Gary Waddock and the coaching staff, and the players and other members of staff, are all united in our focus to move this great club forward and to achieve success this season on the pitch. We believe we have the squad and the resources to do so. We will not allow a tiny group of people, driven by an agenda that has nothing to do with football, to destroy this Club.
"I urge all fans to treat such rumour-mongers with the contempt and scepticism they deserve. They have been claiming we would go into administration every week for the past year, and they never admit they are wrong when we don't.
"They claimed we were locked out of the training ground before and even that the groundsmen would not cut the grass at the stadium. They predicted we would spend all the Club's money on agents' fees when we have spent less than nearly any other club in this division. They predicted we would sell off Loftus Road and all our best players because we could not afford their wages.
"Just yesterday they claimed we were locked out of the training ground because we could not afford the rent; but today, as scheduled, our players are training at the training ground. On each and every occasion their rumours have been proven false.
"As I believe you say in England, when someone cries wolf so many times, people stop listening. But every time the rumour-mongers are proven wrong they invent another rumour, so desperate to be proven right and for the Club to fail.
"For the last time I say to those who's criticism of the Board has developed into an agenda to undermine the Club, if you know of a better alternative to take QPR forward with the necessary funding to support it, then please let us know. Otherwise stop pursuing a divisive and destructive agenda. The Board, the players and staff and the thousands of fans of QPR will not allow a small selfish group to ruin the season for the rest of us.
"I know most QPR fans will be sensible enough to take every rumour and press speculation with a hefty pinch of salt. We seem to be in the 'silly season' right now - only today I saw an article in the Mirror claiming I had rejected an offer of £3million for Danny Shittu from Wolves and would only sell him for £10 million.
"The story is, of course, rubbish. As I have said all along, we don't want to sell Danny, but if someone comes in with an offer of £3million or above it will be up to him to decide. Nobody has made such an offer and so Danny will be starting the season with us.
"So as we prepare for the opening game at Burnley on Saturday, and then two exciting home games against Leeds United and newly promoted Southend United, I cannot wait for the football to start and for the players to do the talking on the pitch."And I urge every single QPR fan to get fully behind Gary and the boys and help them to turn this into a glorious season. Come on You R's!'' Gianni Paladini
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~875457,00.html
OFFICIAL SITE STATEMENT RE GROUND CLOSING
CLUB STATEMENT Queens Park Rangers Football Club would like to issue the following statement to clear the air over yet more wildly inaccurate reporting in the press and on various message boards.QPR staff were admitted to the training ground on Monday. No players were refused admittance to the ground yesterday. This is because no players turned up as it had been decided to give them an extra day off after their pre-season tour to Italy. The players are back at the training ground today (Tuesday) working hard for the opening match of the season at Turf Moor on Saturday. We can confirm that there was no Portsmouth player on trial with the Club either yesterday or today. It should also be noted that the items printed in the press had not been checked with either QPR or Imperial College before being published.And remember... www.qpr.co.uk is the R's official website - where all the breaking news comes first and fastest.http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~875417,00.html
QPR Chairman, Paladini Denies "Locked Out of Training Ground" Rumours
-
July 31, there were assertions on QPR Fan Messageboards that players had been locked out of the club's (rented) Harlington training ground. There was a brief 'snippet' re this rumour in the July 31 Evening Standard. There was no official statement/comment re this by the club.
Mirror August 1, 2006 - RANGERS RENT ROW MYSTERY
Paladini last night denied his players had been locked out of the training ground because the troubled Championship club had not paid the rent.
Several QPR players claimed they were turned away from their Harlington training HQ when the gates were locked in the latest apparent financial setback.
Rangers may be entrenched in debt, but Paladini stressed the rent was paid to Imperial College on July 18.
And he also insisted star defender Danny Shittu would not be sold before Saturday's kick-off - despite Wolves' £3million offer.
Paladini said: "We can prove the rent was paid and our manager Gary Waddock was there yesterday and allowed in.
"The players were simply given a day off and that is why they were not at the training ground yesterday.
"It's been a very difficult time for the club - the worst I can ever remember.
"As for Danny Shittu, we have had two offers but we are determined not to sell him. If we could not pay our rent then we would have sold him to Wolves a long time ago.
"There are about three or four clubs interested in signing him and we've had contact from Birmingham, West Brom and Norwich.
"If I can get a bid for £10m then we will listen, but if we don't get that sort of money then he'll start the season with us."
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/topstories/tm_objectid=17496065%26method=full%26siteid=94762-name_page.html
July 31, there were assertions on QPR Fan Messageboards that players had been locked out of the club's (rented) Harlington training ground. There was a brief 'snippet' re this rumour in the July 31 Evening Standard. There was no official statement/comment re this by the club.
Mirror August 1, 2006 - RANGERS RENT ROW MYSTERY
Paladini last night denied his players had been locked out of the training ground because the troubled Championship club had not paid the rent.
Several QPR players claimed they were turned away from their Harlington training HQ when the gates were locked in the latest apparent financial setback.
Rangers may be entrenched in debt, but Paladini stressed the rent was paid to Imperial College on July 18.
And he also insisted star defender Danny Shittu would not be sold before Saturday's kick-off - despite Wolves' £3million offer.
Paladini said: "We can prove the rent was paid and our manager Gary Waddock was there yesterday and allowed in.
"The players were simply given a day off and that is why they were not at the training ground yesterday.
"It's been a very difficult time for the club - the worst I can ever remember.
"As for Danny Shittu, we have had two offers but we are determined not to sell him. If we could not pay our rent then we would have sold him to Wolves a long time ago.
"There are about three or four clubs interested in signing him and we've had contact from Birmingham, West Brom and Norwich.
"If I can get a bid for £10m then we will listen, but if we don't get that sort of money then he'll start the season with us."
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/topstories/tm_objectid=17496065%26method=full%26siteid=94762-name_page.html
Championship Preview - The Times "Could go down"
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The Times - Championship Preview
"QUEENS PARK RANGERS - There will be plenty of new faces on the pitch at Loftus Road this season, but unfortunately for Rangers supporters, most of Gary Waddock’s signings, who come from all corners of the globe, are untried both in this country and at this level. Expect to see a new face in the home dugout if they do not gel quickly into a winning side. Last season: 21st. This season: could go down"
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,27-2292825,00.html
The Times - Championship Preview
"QUEENS PARK RANGERS - There will be plenty of new faces on the pitch at Loftus Road this season, but unfortunately for Rangers supporters, most of Gary Waddock’s signings, who come from all corners of the globe, are untried both in this country and at this level. Expect to see a new face in the home dugout if they do not gel quickly into a winning side. Last season: 21st. This season: could go down"
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,27-2292825,00.html
Soccernet's Championship Preview...QPR
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Soccernet's Championship preview 2006/7
Richard Jolly
"...QPR
Last season: 21st Manager: Gary Waddock - A QPR favourite who offers the prospect of better football at Loftus Road, despite a mediocre end to the season.
In: Damion Stewart (Bradford, free), Adam Czerkas (Kolporter Korona, loan), Egutu Oliseh (La Louviere, free), Armel Tchakounte (Kitchee FC, free), Nick Ward (Perth Glory, free).
Out: Dean Sturridge (Kidderminster, free), Richard Langley (Luton, free).
A largely unprofitable March and April did not stop QPR promoting Gary Waddock to succeed Ian Holloway, whose style of football may be deemed more suitable for the lower divisions.
Despite an eclectic bunch of rather cheap signings, he will operate with basically the same squad. The benefit is that it still includes Danny Shittu, the giant centre back whose uncompromising displays have attracted attention. The downside is that an ageing forward line requires rejuvenation and, as Marc Nygaard (9) was the most successful, a prolific scorer.
Waddock also needs to ease a reliance on Gareth Ainsworth to create while proving an end-of-season slump was not a sign of things to come.
Key man: Danny Shittu - QPR's leader in defence. He could be rather overworked this season.
One to watch: Shabazz Baidoo - Lively young striker who was normally used as a substitute last year.
Must do better: Stefan Moore - Came from Aston Villa in search of first-team football, but did not really make the most of it.
Prediction: If Waddock can ally a greater emphasis on passing with the spirit and resilience that were trademarks of Holloway's team, mid-table. If not, they may be among the strugglers.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=374686&root=england&cc=5739
Predicted Championship - Final League Table
Championship
1. West Brom2. Southampton3. Crystal Palace4. Birmingham City5. Coventry City6. Sunderland7. Derby County8. Leeds United9. Wolves10. Burnley11. Norwich City12. Preston 13. Leicester City14. Cardiff City15. Stoke City16. Hull17. Ipswich Town18. Sheffield Wednesday19. Plymouth Argyle20. Southend United21. Luton Town22. Barnsley23. QPR24. Colchester United http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=374680&root=england&cc=5739
Soccernet's Championship preview 2006/7
Richard Jolly
"...QPR
Last season: 21st Manager: Gary Waddock - A QPR favourite who offers the prospect of better football at Loftus Road, despite a mediocre end to the season.
In: Damion Stewart (Bradford, free), Adam Czerkas (Kolporter Korona, loan), Egutu Oliseh (La Louviere, free), Armel Tchakounte (Kitchee FC, free), Nick Ward (Perth Glory, free).
Out: Dean Sturridge (Kidderminster, free), Richard Langley (Luton, free).
A largely unprofitable March and April did not stop QPR promoting Gary Waddock to succeed Ian Holloway, whose style of football may be deemed more suitable for the lower divisions.
Despite an eclectic bunch of rather cheap signings, he will operate with basically the same squad. The benefit is that it still includes Danny Shittu, the giant centre back whose uncompromising displays have attracted attention. The downside is that an ageing forward line requires rejuvenation and, as Marc Nygaard (9) was the most successful, a prolific scorer.
Waddock also needs to ease a reliance on Gareth Ainsworth to create while proving an end-of-season slump was not a sign of things to come.
Key man: Danny Shittu - QPR's leader in defence. He could be rather overworked this season.
One to watch: Shabazz Baidoo - Lively young striker who was normally used as a substitute last year.
Must do better: Stefan Moore - Came from Aston Villa in search of first-team football, but did not really make the most of it.
Prediction: If Waddock can ally a greater emphasis on passing with the spirit and resilience that were trademarks of Holloway's team, mid-table. If not, they may be among the strugglers.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=374686&root=england&cc=5739
Predicted Championship - Final League Table
Championship
1. West Brom2. Southampton3. Crystal Palace4. Birmingham City5. Coventry City6. Sunderland7. Derby County8. Leeds United9. Wolves10. Burnley11. Norwich City12. Preston 13. Leicester City14. Cardiff City15. Stoke City16. Hull17. Ipswich Town18. Sheffield Wednesday19. Plymouth Argyle20. Southend United21. Luton Town22. Barnsley23. QPR24. Colchester United http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=374680&root=england&cc=5739
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