- Enlarged Photo of QPR's Stadium From Messageboard Poster, 'Bushman': "Built by The Great Western Railway Company. Opened in November 1907, Park Royal Stadium held 60,000 including 9,000 under cover 4,000 seated. Whilst there, Ranger's won the Southern League Championship in 1907/08 and 1911/12.The Army commandeered Park Royal in February 1915 and Rangers finished the season back at Kensal Rise before moving to Loftus Rd in 1919 where the original Main Stand came from the Park Royal Stadium. The picture of the stand is the one that was then moved and rebuilt on the Ellerslie Rd side
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- Enlarged Photo
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- Enlarged Photo: Off to the Game at Park Royal in 1908
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Enlarged Photo: The Train Station next to the Stadium and a news Story about the Station
- QPR Official Site Club History: "...Because of poor finances, QPR had to move to St. Quintin's Avenue in 1901. Players had to change in a public house and walk to the pitch. The inhabitants of the area complained that QPR were lowering the tone of the neighbourhood and in 1902 QPR moved back to Kensal Rise!
- In 1904/05 they moved to The Royal Agricultural Society Ground at Park Royal which could hold 40,000 spectators. In 1905/06 QPR won the Western League Cup, but in 1906/07 they finished in a disappointing 18th place in the 20 team Southern League.
- In 1907/08 QPR moved to another new ground at Park Royal, capable of holding 60,000 spectators. They won the Southern League for the first time...In 1914/15, because the First World War had started, the army took over QPR's ground at Park Royal, and QPR played the rest of their fixtures at Harvist Road. QPR then took over the ground of the amateur club Shepherd's Bush - who played at Loftus Road..." QPR
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- Throughout the day, updates, comments and perspectives re QPR and football in general are posted and discussed on the QPR Report Messageboard...Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
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- England Squad Announced (including Kyle Walker)
- Benni McCarthy Fined 200,000 Pounds by West Ham
- "On This Day" in Football (and Year Ago, QPR Lose to Peterbrough)
- Final Ten: Vote for Mitre Goal of the Year - None QPR, but one of Finalist Goals by Ex-QPR Player
- If QPR Get Promoted, one perspective of which players are good enough for Premiership
- Hooligans Jailed after West End Battle
-Update on an Ex-QPR Youth Coach
- Another Financial "Deadline" Coming up: "A £2,000,000 interest free loan owing to Mr. A Caliendo is repayabale on 28 February 2011 and redeemable at any time prior to that date at the sole discretion of QPR" QPR Accounts
FIVE YEAR FLASHBACK...Five YEARS AGO, IAN HOLLOWAY PLACED ON "GARDENING LEAVE"
February 6, 2006 - Official: Holloway on "Gardening Leave" ...Waddock Caretaker Manager. In the words of then QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini "My feeling was that if you are happily married why would you look for another woman?"
- And the team for Holloway's last game in charge, away to Leeds: Barnes 7, Kus 5 (Langley 86min, 6), Lowe 6, Shittu 6, Taylor 7, Ainsworth 5 (Youssouf 66min, 6), Bignot 6, Lomas 6, Cook 7 (Nygaard 66min, 7), Moore 5, Clarke 5
OFFICIAL SITE CLUB STATEMENT - February 6, 2006
- QPR have announced that Ian Holloway has been placed on 'gardening leave.'
Gary Waddock has been appointed as caretaker manager and will be taking first team training as of today.
- Waddock is currently being consulted about a potential caretaker assistant manager to join him in the next few days.
The move follows speculation about Holloway joining Leicester City as their new manager.
The club is keen to avoid any distraction to the playing side and to move forward with the rest of the season as speedily as possible.
It has therefore put Ian Holloway and his managerial staff, Gary Penrice and Tim Breacker, on gardening leave with immediate effect.
- Gary Waddock started at work on Monday morning in training with the players and in preparation for next Saturday's derby game against Millwall.
Gianni Paladini said: "QPR has not sacked Ian, but we are concerned about recent performances and the effect the speculation about Ian joining Leicester City might have on the players.
- "I hope we can sort something out with Ian as soon as possible. QPR will always be enormously grateful for the contribution he has made over the past five years, in particular gaining promotion for us in 2004.
- "However, it is crucial the team are focussed and able to move forward, which is why we have appointed Gary as Caretaker Manager. I hope the fans will get behind Gary for the home derby against Millwall on Saturday."
BBC - QPR suspend Foxes target Holloway
- Ian Holloway could now take over at Leicester City
Queens Park Rangers have suspended manager Ian Holloway because of speculation linking him with the vacant manager's job at Leicester City.
Holloway has been placed on "gardening leave" with recent bad results also contributing to his downfall.
"QPR has not sacked Ian," chairman Gianni Paladini told the club website.
"But we are concerned about recent performances and the effect speculation about Ian joining Leicester City might have on the players."
Rangers have slumped to 15th in the Championship table and Holloway has faced mounting criticism from fans.
- He was told by Paladini on Sunday night that he was being relieved of his duties at Loftus Road whether or not he lands the Foxes job.
Rangers will now try to work out a compensation package with the ex-Bristol Rovers chief, who signed an improved contract last year.
- And, with Holloway facing competition for the Leicester job from caretaker boss Rob Kelly and Luton's Mike Newell, the west London club have suspended him on full pay along with coaches Tim Breacker and Gary Penrice. BBC
QPR coach Gary Waddock has been placed in temporary charge.
Paladini added: "I hope we can sort something out with Ian as soon as possible.
"QPR will always be enormously grateful for the contribution he has made for the past five years, in particular gaining promotion for us in 2004.
"However, it is crucial the team are focused and able to move forward, which is why we have appointed Gary as caretaker manager."
Waddock was a hugely popular figure in his playing days at QPR and is credited with improving the club¿s youth system in recent years.
The former Republic of Ireland midfielder is likely to be assisted by youth coach Joe Gallen - brother of club captain Kevin - for this Saturday's game against Millwall.
Paladini is also keen to install ex-Rs boss Jim Smith as director of football.
Smith led QPR between 1985 and 1988 and has since managed Newcastle, Portsmouth and Derby.
Monday, February 06, 2006 Waddock Talks about What he Expects from his Team
OFFICIAL SITE - WADDOCK SPEAKS
- Gary Waddock took charge of his first training session on Monday morning and was happy to get it out of the way.
"It's been a hectic morning, I spoke to the players regarding the situation then we split the lads into two groups. The guys who played on Saturday did a cool down and then a weights session with Scott Rushton. The other group played in a football session overseen by myself and Joe Gallen."
"I also spoke to many of the senior players on a one to one basis to get my points across."
Waddock is known around the club as a nice guy but he knows he will have to get tough to fulfil his role.
"I'm a nice guy and I'm an honest guy and I know I'll only keep eleven players happy. I'm here to do a job, I'm a professional person and I will get the players and the team ready that will win the next match for the club. Yes I will have to make hard decisions but I am not frightened or afraid to make them."
Waddock played in a Rangers side with plenty of flair and would like to continue that with his own side.
"The style of play will change overnight. Everyone has their own football philosophy and I have mine."
"I want the players to be able to express themselves and enjoy the style of play. We will pass it and there will be lots of movement."
"I want them to be creative and express themselves as well .I will encourage them to play out from the back but I'm not naive, I know we also need to get results - but with a certain brand of football.
Having been in charge of the reserve team Waddock knows about most of the players but no-one will get into his side on reputation only.
"Everyone starts from scratch today. Some senior players will play play for the reserves tomorrow in order to help with their fitness ahead of Saturday's game."
"I will need the crowds help and support. I want my team to excite them and get the noise back to Loftus Road. When it's in full voice it makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and I want it to be our fortress." QPR
Telegraph - QPR suspend Holloway over Leicester link - By Tom Cary
Queens Park Rangers have suspended manager Ian Holloway on full pay, ostensibly because of speculation linking him with the vacant manager's post at Leicester.
But a series of bad results and behind-the-scenes problems have undoubtedly contributed to the decision of chairman Gianni Paladini to place the eccentric Holloway on "gardening leave" along with coaches Tim Breacker and Gary Penrice. Coach Gary Waddock has been installed as temporary manager.
A statement from Paladini read: "QPR have not sacked Ian but we are concerned about recent performances and the effect the speculation about Ian joining Leicester might have on the players.
"QPR will always be grateful to the contribution he has made over the past five years, in particular gaining promotion in 2004.
"However, it is crucial the team are focused and moving forward, which is why we have appointed Gary as caretaker manager. I hope the fans get behind Gary for the home derby against Millwall on Saturday."
Waddock, a popular figure in his playing days at QPR, is credited with improving the club's youth system in recent years. The former Republic of Ireland midfielder is likely to be assisted by youth coach Joe Gallen, brother of club captain Kevin, for the clash with Millwall.
Paladini is also keen to install former manager Jim Smith as director of football. Smith led QPR between 1985 and 1988 and has since managed Newcastle, Portsmouth and Derby.
Cash-strapped QPR will now try to work out a compensation package with Holloway, who signed an improved contract last year. Meanwhile, Leicester, who dismissed Craig Levein last month and are in danger of dropping out of the top two divisions for the first time in their history, denied any agreement had been reached with Holloway.
A spokesman said: "The process of finding a new manager is still taking place. We won't be commenting on speculation."... Telegraph
Waddock - QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WADDO'S WORDS
Rangers' Caretaker Manager Gary Waddock met the national press for the first time this afternoon.Flanked by Chairman Gianni Paladini and Club Captain Kevin Gallen, Waddock expressed his delight at being handed the reigns while Ian Holloway is on 'gardening leave.'
"I'm here as a Caretaker and just to be given the opportunity to manage this wonderful club is fantastic. I'm here to do the job asked of me by the Chairman and I'll do it to the best of my ability."My job is to coach and I'm focusing entirely on Millwall at the weekend. I'm really looking forward to Saturday and I'm sure the players will put on a performance that will excite the crowd."Anybody who has played the game or has coached at any level would love to be a full time manager. My strengths are out on the training ground - training and coaching players.
"The players look hungry and everyone has an opportunity to prove their worth."The staff at QPR have been fantastic with me. Everyone has been a great help and we've all mucked in together. We all want to get a positive result and performance on Saturday.''
Waddock also revealed he is looking at bringing in another coach and an experienced advisor to assist him in his quest to push the Hoops up the table."We spoke about Jim Smith coming in; he has the type of experience and list of contacts I'm after. But that's finished now and I'll look at other avenues."We need another coach and an experienced man and I'm working on it.''
The new man at the helm also took time to spare a thought for Ian Holloway."Ollie's done a fantastic job here and I've learnt a lot off him, but unfortunately it's the nature of the business. His loss is my gain and I've been given a great opportunity to prove my worth. I'm only looking at it on a game-to-game basis and getting the team prepared for Millwall on Saturday.''
Waddock also revealed he is determined to alter the style of football Rangers will play - starting with the visit of Millwall on Saturday."The players know the style of football I want to play. My footballing philosophy is to get the ball down and play; be creative. It's all about passing and movement and getting into the final third; having an end product in terms of shots on goal. I want to change the style of play and hopefully that will start on Saturday.''
Paladini on Holloway, Waddock & Smith - Reports of Press Conference
Clubcall Paladini on Holloway departure07 Feb 2006 16:23
Queens Park Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini has spoken of his reasons behind placing Ian Holloway on gardening leave and revealed the decision was taken after an approach from the Foxes for Holloway to take over at the Walkers Stadium.
Paladini was speaking at a press conference on Tuesday where he confirmed that caretaker boss Gary Waddock is likely to remain in charge until the end of the season at Loftus Road and that the former Rangers player is a serious consider for the job on a full-time
Waddock has taken over from Holloway after the Rangers boss was the subject of an approach from Leicester last week and Paladini felt it was affecting the team: "I had a phonecall from Leicester the day after we played them last week asking for permission to speak to Ian," said Paladini.
"I told Ian and his agent and they wanted to speak to Leicester, so they did. It was very difficult because Ian has been fantastic for QPR over the last five years and it has been a privilege to work with him
"My feeling was that if you are happily married why whould you look for another woman? I felt that it was better for us to move in a different direction and for him to maybe move on after a long time here. But I have nothing but praise for the man."
Jim Smith has been linked with a role of Loftus Road but Paladini revealed he was only spoken to about the possibility of coming in to help out Waddock: "The idea was for Jim to come in on a consultancy basis. What we asked him to do for us he couldn't do it because he job was never offered to him as the manager," said Paladini.
"We felt he could come and help Gary but we could not offer him what he wanted and he has moved on. We wanted him to come in without a contract and to help it but things never happened." Clubcall
PA Sport/Sporting Life - HOLLOWAY WILL NOT BE SACKED
By Andy Sims, PA Sport
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini has admitted there is no way back for Ian Holloway at Loftus Road as he unveiled reserve-team coach Gary Waddock as the club's new caretaker manager.
Holloway was put on 'gardening leave' by Paladini after asking permission to speak to Coca-Cola Championship rivals Leicester, who are in search of a new manager after sacking Craig Levein.
Paladini also revealed he will not sack Holloway even if he is not offered the manager's role at Leicester, and if necessary would continue to pay the 42-year-old for the duration of his two-year contract.
"If a man is happily married why would he look for another woman?" said Paladini.
"If you get the opportunity to speak to someone it's your choice whether to go, or to stay.
"But maybe it's better for him to move, maybe he's been here too long. I don't blame him for looking.
"Once he applied for the job at Leicester we felt he couldn't concentrate on our team. Ian has had a rollercoaster time here under very difficult circumstances. He's done a tremendous job.
"But I spoke to Leicester on Wednesday, then spoke to his agent, and he went to see them.
"But he hasn't been sacked. We will honour his contract until the end."
Paladini also revealed that Jim Smith had been offered a role at the club, but only in a consultancy capacity.
Smith, who led Rangers to the Milk Cup final in 1986, turned down a position at Loftus Road, claiming it would be "politically incorrect".
"Gary is caretaker manager and knows Jim well," Paladini added. "It was mainly consultancy that we asked him to do, we never asked him to be manager.
"It's a big job for Gary to take on, so getting Jim to come in might have been the right thing to do but we never discussed a position.
"But this is an opportunity for Gary to take charge. Hopefully he will do well."
Waddock admitted he would like the role on a permanent basis and will be looking to make an instant impact.
"My immediate thoughts and focus are Saturday's game with Millwall," said Waddock, who made 240 appearances for Rangers in the 1980s.
"I've been put in charge on a caretaker basis and I'll get on with the job in hand.
"The players know my style of play and they know my coaching methods."
Waddock is still on the lookout for a "Jim Smith-type character" to oversee the daily matters at the club, although he and Paladini refused to confirm or deny that former Aston Villa boss John Gregory was being considered.
"If someone like Jim Smith were to come in, with their experience, knowledge and contacts, then that would help because the phone hasn't stopped ringing and my strength is coaching," he added.
"Olly (Holloway) has done a fantastic job here, and he gave me the chance to coach, but it's the nature of the business."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/new...._Nightlead.html
BBC - QPR chief says no Holloway return
Holloway has two years left on his contract at QPRQPR chairman Gianni Paladini says there is no way back for former manager Ian Holloway at Loftus Road, but is adamant he will not sack him.
Holloway was suspended on Monday for asking to speak to Leicester City about their vacant manager's job.
"Once he applied for the Leicester job we felt he could not concentrate on our team," Paladini said.
Paladini added that Holloway will be paid for the rest of his two-year QPR contract if he does not get a new job.
He added: "He hasn't been sacked. We will honour his contract until the end."
Paladini felt Holloway's mind was no longer on the job at Loftus Road, saying: "If a man is happily married why would he look for another woman?
"If you get the opportunity to speak to someone it's your choice whether to go, or to stay.
"Maybe it's better for him to move, maybe he's been here too long. I don't blame him for looking."
Holloway cannot speak about his departure from QPR for legal reasons, but BBC Sport has tried unsuccessfully to contact his agent. BBC
SKY - Paladini: No way back for Ollie
By Andy Clarke - Created on 7 Feb 2006
...And he says he is prepared to pay Holloway for the remainder of his contract if necessary and will not be sacking the former Bristol Rovers manager, even if Leicester do not offer him the job.
"If a man is happily married why would he look for another woman?" said Paladini.
"If you get the opportunity to speak to someone it's your choice whether to go, or to stay. But maybe it's better for him to move, maybe he's been here too long. I don't blame him for looking.
"Once he applied for the job at Leicester we felt he couldn't concentrate on our team. Ian has had a rollercoaster time here under very difficult circumstances. He's done a tremendous job.
"I spoke to Leicester on Wednesday, then spoke to his agent, and he went to see them. But he hasn't been sacked. We will honour his contract until the end."
Smith has turned down Paladini's approach, at least for the time being, but could yet be back at the club he managed for three years in the 80s.
"Gary is caretaker manager and knows Jim well," Paladini said. "It was mainly consultancy that we asked him to do, we never asked him to be manager.
"It's a big job for Gary to take on, so getting Jim to come in might have been the right thing to do but we never discussed a position."
Holloway's Last Match Independent - Leeds Utd 2 QPR 0:
Sunday Times
"...This was a workmanlike victory over a Queens Park Rangers side depleted by injuries. QPR manager Ian Holloway solved a goalkeeping crisis by registering Phil Barnes’s loan from Sheffield United less than four hours before kick-off. Both goals came from headers and both came from passes from the left foot of Eddie Lewis, the United States international who had a terrific game on the left wing. His skill enlivened a drab, listless opening as he tormented QPR’s new Polish full-back Marcin Kus and after 27 minutes he beat the defender to the byline and forced Barnes into a save.
But Barnes was at fault for Leeds’s opener. Lewis swung over a free kick, the keeper called for the ball but could not reach it before Cresswell, whose back header looped into the empty net.
Neil Sullivan was not called on to make a save until nine minutes into the second half when Keith Lowe, another QPR debutant, won the ball in the air but headed straight at him. At the other end Liam Miller struck a stinging shot from 20 yards that brought a fine save from Barnes before Cresswell had an opportunity to score Leeds’s second. Lewis’s cross found the former Preston man unmarked, but he headed wide.
With Lewis unstoppable and Shaun Derry an anchor in midfield, Leeds were dominant. After 77 minutes Lewis did well to reach a Cresswell cross but when he pulled the ball back, no attacker followed up.
Six minutes from time Leeds put the result beyond doubt. Lewis sent over another perfectly weighted cross and Butler dived to head the ball powerfully past Barnes.
STAR MAN: Eddie Lewis (Leeds)
Player ratings. Leeds: Sullivan 7, Kelly 7, Butler 7, Gregan 6, Crainey 6, Douglas 6, Miller 7, Derry 7, Lewis 8, Healy 6 (Blake 71min, 6), Cresswell 7 (Hulse 77min, 7)
QPR: Barnes 7, Kus 5 (Langley 86min, 6), Lowe 6, Shittu 6, Taylor 7, Ainsworth 5 (Youssouf 66min, 6), Bignot 6, Lomas 6, Cook 7 (Nygaard 66min, 7), Moore 5, Clarke 5
Feb 6, 200
Holloway's 'Gardening Leave' in part due to recent performances...Coaches Breaker & Penrice also on Gardening Leave-
BBC QPR suspend Foxes target Holloway
I an Holloway could now take over at Leicester CityQueens Park Rangers have suspended manager Ian Holloway because of speculation linking him with the vacant manager's job at Leicester City.
Holloway has been placed on "gardening leave" with recent bad results also contributing to his downfall.
"QPR has not sacked Ian," chairman Gianni Paladini told the club website.
"But we are concerned about recent performances and the effect speculation about Ian joining Leicester City might have on the players."
Rangers have slumped to 15th in the Championship table and Holloway has faced mounting criticism from fans.
He was told by Paladini on Sunday night that he was being relieved of his duties at Loftus Road whether or not he lands the Foxes job.
Rangers will now try to work out a compensation package with the ex-Bristol Rovers chief, who signed an improved contract last year.
And, with Holloway facing competition for the Leicester job from caretaker boss Rob Kelly and Luton's Mike Newell, the west London club have suspended him on full pay along with coaches Tim Breacker and Gary Penrice.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/4685138.stm
QPR coach Gary Waddock has been placed in temporary charge.
Paladini added: "I hope we can sort something out with Ian as soon as possible.
"QPR will always be enormously grateful for the contribution he has made for the past five years, in particular gaining promotion for us in 2004.
"However, it is crucial the team are focused and able to move forward, which is why we have appointed Gary as caretaker manager."
Waddock was a hugely popular figure in his playing days at QPR and is credited with improving the club¿s youth system in recent years.
The former Republic of Ireland midfielder is likely to be assisted by youth coach Joe Gallen - brother of club captain Kevin - for this Saturday's game against Millwall.
Paladini is also keen to install ex-Rs boss Jim Smith as director of football.
Smith led QPR between 1985 and 1988 and has since managed Newcastle, Portsmouth and Derby.
Jim Smith Returning to QPR - Guardian - February 7, 2006
- Jim Smith may make an unlikely return to Queens Park Rangers as director of football, more than 20 years after he first took over at the west London club as manager. The 65-year-old is understood to have been lined up to take on an advisory role at Loftus Road as Rangers prepare for the inevitable departure of Ian Holloway, who was yesterday suspended from his duties.
Smith, who managed at Loftus Road between 1985 and 1988, is known to be a close friend of the QPR chairman Gianni Paladini and although the Championship club would not comment on his possible arrival yesterday they refused to rule out a move for the former Derby County manager, whose last employment was alongside Harry Redknapp at Southampton.
Holloway has been sent on "gardening leave" for an indefinite period after he was linked with the vacant managerial post at Leicester City at the weekend. Leicester have denied reports that an appointment is imminent but even if Holloway does not replace Craig Levein, who was dismissed two weeks ago, it appears unlikely that he will return to QPR.
The former Bristol Rovers manager signed a three-year contract extension 12 months ago but his relationship with Paladini has been strained for some time. Paladini, though, will be keen to avoid any financial settlement with Holloway because it is believed the manager has a rolling one-year deal which would entail a 12-month pay-off if he were sacked.
Holloway, who has been in charge at Rangers for five years, learned that he would no longer be in charge of team affairs on Sunday night. Paladini said that the combination of a poor run of results and the Leicester rumours had prompted his decision to seek a change. Gary Waddock, previously the first-team coach, has been appointed as caretaker manager.
"QPR have not sacked Ian but we are concerned about recent performances and the effect the speculation about Ian joining Leicester might have on the players," said Paladini. "QPR will always be enormously grateful for the contribution he has made over the past five years, in particular gaining promotion for us in 2004."
Waddock is likely to be assisted by the Rangers youth coach Joe Gallen for Saturday's match against Millwall. However two other members of Holloway's backroom staff, Tim Breacker and Gary Penrice, have been temporarily relieved of their responsibilities Guardian
strong>Jim Smith Returning to QPR - Guardian - February 7, 2006
- Jim Smith may make an unlikely return to Queens Park Rangers as director of football, more than 20 years after he first took over at the west London club as manager. The 65-year-old is understood to have been lined up to take on an advisory role at Loftus Road as Rangers prepare for the inevitable departure of Ian Holloway, who was yesterday suspended from his duties.
Smith, who managed at Loftus Road between 1985 and 1988, is known to be a close friend of the QPR chairman Gianni Paladini and although the Championship club would not comment on his possible arrival yesterday they refused to rule out a move for the former Derby County manager, whose last employment was alongside Harry Redknapp at Southampton.
Holloway has been sent on "gardening leave" for an indefinite period after he was linked with the vacant managerial post at Leicester City at the weekend. Leicester have denied reports that an appointment is imminent but even if Holloway does not replace Craig Levein, who was dismissed two weeks ago, it appears unlikely that he will return to QPR.
The former Bristol Rovers manager signed a three-year contract extension 12 months ago but his relationship with Paladini has been strained for some time. Paladini, though, will be keen to avoid any financial settlement with Holloway because it is believed the manager has a rolling one-year deal which would entail a 12-month pay-off if he were sacked.
Holloway, who has been in charge at Rangers for five years, learned that he would no longer be in charge of team affairs on Sunday night. Paladini said that the combination of a poor run of results and the Leicester rumours had prompted his decision to seek a change. Gary Waddock, previously the first-team coach, has been appointed as caretaker manager.
"QPR have not sacked Ian but we are concerned about recent performances and the effect the speculation about Ian joining Leicester might have on the players," said Paladini. "QPR will always be enormously grateful for the contribution he has made over the past five years, in particular gaining promotion for us in 2004."
Waddock is likely to be assisted by the Rangers youth coach Joe Gallen for Saturday's match against Millwall. However two other members of Holloway's backroom staff, Tim Breacker and Gary Penrice, have been temporarily relieved of their responsibilities Guardian
SKY SPORT - Smith says no for now By Simon Fudge
- Created on 7 Feb 2006
Jim Smith has turned down the chance to return to former club Queens Park Rangers 'for the time being'.
Smith, who managed the West London outfit for a for a spell between 1985 and 1988, spoke with QPR chairman Gianni Paladini on Monday regarding a role whereby he would assist caretaker boss Gary Waddock.
The Championship club placed Waddock in charge after putting manager Ian Holloway and his assistants Gary Penrice and Tim Breaker on gardening leave.
Growing speculation that Holloway is set to succeed Craig Levein as Leicester City manager prompted Paladini to place the former Bristol Rovers boss on leave in order to steady the ship at QPR.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Smith felt now was not the right time to return to Loftus Road, but he hinted that a move back may be on the horizon.
"With the situation at the club and the management problems, it wasn't the time for me to go because it was politically not correct, I don't think," Smith said.
"It's a shame because it's a great club. Mr Paladini is a personal friend and I feel as if I've let him down a little bit.
"I met Gary Waddock yesterday (Monday), who is going to take charge, and I was very impressed with him.
"I just felt that for me, with the situation, it just wasn't politically correct for me."
Smith stated his confidence that he will return to football in the near future, though he ruled out any possibility of succeeding Phil Brown as Derby County manager.
"This is the longest period I've ever been out of football in my life," he added.
"In about 27 to 30 years, I've only done a year all told (out of football), and this is about half of it at this moment in time.
"I have turned opportunities down in that period, to be honest, but there are a couple of opportunities that are coming up now.
"I think, in the very near future, I'll be back in serious full-time football."
Smith feels the Leicester speculation will make it difficult for Holloway to return to his QPR post. "Looking at it - whatever the circumstances regarding Leicester is - to me, he's not going back," Smith said.
"I don't know how long it will take for him to do the garden and how big his garden is, but I don't think there is any going back (for Holloway now)." SkySports
BBC - Smith decides against QPR return By Andrew McKenzie
Smith spent over three years as boss at QPR
Jim Smith has held talks with QPR but will not be making an emotional return to the club as manager.
QPR suspended manager Ian Holloway on Monday after a poor run of results and following links with the Leicester job.
Smith, 65, was widely reported to be making a return as director of football to Loftus Road - where he was manager for three years in the 1980s.
"There have been talks and I've decided things are not right for me there at the moment," he told BBC Sport.
"It's been a very hard decision for me. I more or less said 'yes' to QPR and then I've had to say 'no' - it's that close and I feel a bit sad about it but I just felt it wasn't right.
QPR suspend Foxes target Holloway "I'm not going to be involved there."
Smith guided the club to fifth in the old First Division in 1988 before leaving later that year for Newcastle.
He rejected suggestions he was set for a director of football role at the club, adding: "I've never wanted to be a director of football in my life. I don't even know what he does."
Smith has been out of work since his contract was not renewed at Southampton in May 2005 and has since had talks with Bristol Rovers and been part of a consortium trying to take over Oxford United.
But he said he was in talks with other clubs, adding: "It's a funny life. There are no buses then suddenly three come at once." BBC
SOCCERNET Feb. 7, 2006 - Smith turns down return to Loftus Road
Former QPR boss Jim Smith has rejected the chance to re-join the club - but did not rule out a return in the near future.
Rangers placed manager Ian Holloway on 'gardening leave' on Monday and chairman Gianni Paladini offered Smith - who managed Rangers from 1985-88 - a role alongside caretaker-boss Gary Waddock.
Smith revealed: 'I held talks with Gianni Paladini, but given the circumstances at the club I did not feel it would have been politically correct to go there right now.'
But when asked whether he would reconsider his decision if Holloway - who has been linked with managerless Leicester - was to leave the club definitively, Smith told Sky Sports News: 'That is always a possibility.
'I think I will be back in full-time football in the near future. I have turned down opportunities, and this is the longest I have been out of the game.'
Smith also believes 'there is no going back' for Holloway at Loftus Road. Soccernet
[Earlier article Jim Smith Returning to QPR Guardian - February 7, 2006
Smith, 94 [sic], is set to make an unlikely return to Loftus Road while Ian Holloway becomes acquainted with his garden
QPR line up Smith after Holloway is suspended Stuart James and
Arindam RejTuesday
Jim Smith may make an unlikely return to Queens Park Rangers as director of football, more than 20 years after he first took over at the west London club as manager. The 65-year-old is understood to have been lined up to take on an advisory role at Loftus Road as Rangers prepare for the inevitable departure of Ian Holloway, who was yesterday suspended from his duties.
Smith, who managed at Loftus Road between 1985 and 1988, is known to be a close friend of the QPR chairman Gianni Paladini and although the Championship club would not comment on his possible arrival yesterday they refused to rule out a move for the former Derby County manager, whose last employment was alongside Harry Redknapp at Southampton.
Holloway has been sent on "gardening leave" for an indefinite period after he was linked with the vacant managerial post at Leicester City at the weekend. Leicester have denied reports that an appointment is imminent but even if Holloway does not replace Craig Levein, who was dismissed two weeks ago, it appears unlikely that he will return to QPR.
The former Bristol Rovers manager signed a three-year contract extension 12 months ago but his relationship with Paladini has been strained for some time. Paladini, though, will be keen to avoid any financial settlement with Holloway because it is believed the manager has a rolling one-year deal which would entail a 12-month pay-off if he were sacked.
Holloway, who has been in charge at Rangers for five years, learned that he would no longer be in charge of team affairs on Sunday night. Paladini said that the combination of a poor run of results and the Leicester rumours had prompted his decision to seek a change. Gary Waddock, previously the first-team coach, has been appointed as caretaker manager.
"QPR have not sacked Ian but we are concerned about recent performances and the effect the speculation about Ian joining Leicester might have on the players," said Paladini. "QPR will always be enormously grateful for the contribution he has made over the past five years, in particular gaining promotion for us in 2004."
Waddock is likely to be assisted by the Rangers youth coach Joe Gallen for Saturday's match against Millwall. However two other members of Holloway's backroom staff, Tim Breacker and Gary Penrice, have been temporarily relieved of their responsibilities Guardian
Telegraph - QPR suspend Holloway over Leicester link
By Tom Cary
Queens Park Rangers have suspended manager Ian Holloway on full pay, ostensibly because of speculation linking him with the vacant manager's post at Leicester.
But a series of bad results and behind-the-scenes problems have undoubtedly contributed to the decision of chairman Gianni Paladini to place the eccentric Holloway on "gardening leave" along with coaches Tim Breacker and Gary Penrice. Coach Gary Waddock has been installed as temporary manager.
A statement from Paladini read: "QPR have not sacked Ian but we are concerned about recent performances and the effect the speculation about Ian joining Leicester might have on the players.
"QPR will always be grateful to the contribution he has made over the past five years, in particular gaining promotion in 2004.
"However, it is crucial the team are focused and moving forward, which is why we have appointed Gary as caretaker manager. I hope the fans get behind Gary for the home derby against Millwall on Saturday."
Waddock, a popular figure in his playing days at QPR, is credited with improving the club's youth system in recent years. The former Republic of Ireland midfielder is likely to be assisted by youth coach Joe Gallen, brother of club captain Kevin, for the clash with Millwall.
Paladini is also keen to install former manager Jim Smith as director of football. Smith led QPR between 1985 and 1988 and has since managed Newcastle, Portsmouth and Derby.
Cash-strapped QPR will now try to work out a compensation package with Holloway, who signed an improved contract last year. Meanwhile, Leicester, who dismissed Craig Levein last month and are in danger of dropping out of the top two divisions for the first time in their history, denied any agreement had been reached with Holloway.
A spokesman said: "The process of finding a new manager is still taking place. We won't be commenting on speculation."... Telegraph
And the day before:
Holloway Reportedly Set for Leicester
News of the World EXCLUSIVE:
New manager for Leicester - Foxes get HollowayBy David Harrison
IAN HOLLOWAY will this week be unveiled as the new Leicester City manager.
The QPR boss led his side for the last time at Leeds yesterday before he succeeds the axed Craig Levein at the Walkers Stadium.
Leicester chairman Jim McCahill, who was also linked with Burnley's Steve Cotterill and Mike Newell of Luton, contacted Rangers last week and agreed a compensation package.
A Leicester source confirmed: "Ian has agreed to join us.
"Everyone has seen what a great job he's done at QPR. His enthusiasm and passion will inspire us to move away from the relegation zone."
Holloway, 42, a former QPR player, returned to Loftus Road as manager five years ago after a similar period as boss of Bristol Rovers.
He led Rangers to promotion to the Championship in 2004. in Despite the initial disappointment of relegation to League One, Holloway gradually turned the club round.
After narrowly missing out on the play-offs in 2002, QPR reached the play-off final in 2003 but were beaten 1-0 by Cardiff.
The following season he achieved promotion to the Championship as League One runners-up with a final-day victory over Sheffield Wednesday
http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/story_pages/sport/sport5.shtml