QPR Report Twitter Feed

Saturday, December 31, 2011

QPR Report Saturday Update: QPR-India Football Connection Continues...Arsenal...Warnock's Views

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- (Photos from Bushman archives)
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- Throughout the day, the QPR Report Messageboard has news updates, comments and perspectives - even links to other board comments of interest re QPR matters (on and off the field) along with football (and ONLY football) topics in general....Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
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- Happy Sixty-Sixth Birthday for Former QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini


- QPR-Indian Connection Continues


- NEXT: Arsenal-QPR: Past Games/Reports/Photos..."Played for Both Clubs"


- Year Ago, announced, Petter Vaagan Moen joining QPR


- UPDATE: Alessandro Pellicori Mentioned re Italian Football Scandal


- REMINDER: QPR Official Supporters Club (OSC) AGM & EGM Scheduled - Today, Saturday December 31st Deadline to Attend or Apply


AIR ASIA - QPR SPONSORSHIP Update


Jacob Murtagh/Fulham Chronicle - Blackpool set to miss out on QPR striker

QPR are ready to snub Blackpool's bid to bring DJ Campbell back to Bloomfield Road.

The striker quit the Seasiders for Loftus Road in the summer, but has endured a frustrating start to life in W12.

Campbell has made just one start since his switch back to the capital, having spent more than two months on the sidelines with a foot injury.

Blackpool boss Ian Holloway has been linked with a loan move for the Hammersmith-born hitman when the transfer window reopens, but Neil Warnock insists Campbell won't be returning to the Championship club.

He said: DJ hasn't been available for selection so he's got to get fit first.

I would've used him last week but he had stitches in his ankle and he didn't feel right. He's got to get on the pitch.[/b]

DJ is frustrated that he's not playing but he's been out nine weeks nearly. I put him on the bench at Liverpool after he only had two sessions, so I can't bring him back much quicker than that.[/b]

No disrespect to Blackpool, but I think there will be better clubs than that looking at DJ if he became available, but for the minute he's with us. Fulham Chronicle


India needs good football pitches: British expert
By Santosh Rao , New Delhi, Dec 31 :

Every overseas visiting football expert has a tip or two for the development of the game at the grassroots level in India. Now a technical official of an English Premier League (EPL) side Queens Park Rangers (QPR) has come up with one - that skills can only be honed on well-tended turfs and there was a "crying need for good pitches" in India.

QPR Youth Development Manager Steve Gallen believes if India has to become a football powerhouse in the region, to start with the grounds need to be evenly grassed. He however sees improvement in Indian football with better and more technically competent players.

Gallen, who is in Mumbai for the third edition of the five-a-side South Mumbai Soccer Challenge -- a talent hunt programme for South Mumbai schoolboys and girls in the 8-10, 10-12 and 12-14 age groups, initiated by QPR in collaboration with Congress MP Milind Deora and Saran Sports -- feels turfs in India were not conducive for football.

"India needs radical changes, besides infrastructure, there is a crying need for good pitches. If the turfs are of standard then the pool of talent will automatically swell and with it the quality of football," Gallen told IANS in a telephone interview.

The man who spent 15 years with the West London club though is happy to see the fast-changing football scene in India over the last three years. He says the players he has seen this time around are better than the crop in the two previous stints of his.

"Players are better, technically they possess good ball control and passing skills. Youngsters are more energetic and have better understanding of the game."

The face of football is changing in India, a cricket-crazy country is finally opening up to the beautiful game. Many European giants are keenly watching the football boom in India and exploring the possibility of associating with its promotion. However, the standard of football itself has not improved much.

India is steadily sliding in the FIFA pecking order. The downfall of the two-time Asian Games Champions is largely due to a lack of planning and investment. From a high of 95th position in 1995, the Indians are currently ranked 162nd.

The slump, he says, is not due to any alarming falling standards here, but because the other countries have grown phenomenally whereas India has stagnated.

"India has remained where they were 10 years back, while other countries have improved tremendously."

"There is no reason why Indians cannot compete at the highest level, it will take time. Football players do not have to be 6 ft 5 inches anymore, look at Messi, the world's greatest player is 5 ft7 inches. The only thing holding the Indian players back is the lack of proper facilities."

Talking of QPR's return to the Premier League this season after 15 years, Gallen said: "Last year was fantastic, we deserved to be promoted, but our players still lack experience to play at the top level. They will change soon, right now our focus is on staying in the Premier League."

Gallen has an ambition, setting up a football academy here.

"Personally, I will do anything to help, I love India. Eventually, I would like to have an academy here."

(Santosh Rao can be contacted at santosh.r@ians.in) (IANS)
http://www.newkerala.com/news/2011/worldnews-137356.html


Neil Warnock/Independent Column

Neil Warnock: How Arsne lent Joey wings for the birth of baby Cassius

Football management is full of surprises and I got one on Boxing Day.


We were in Wales preparing for Tuesday's game against Swansea when Joey Barton informed me his partner had started having contractions. I said to him: "Family comes first, you can go back to London whenever you want, just keep us informed."

He said the contractions were still a long way apart and he'd see how it went. In the morning they had slowed down, so he said he would be OK to play. Kick-off was 5.30 for TV, Joey played, and did well as we got a hard-earned point. By the time the match finished things had speeded up and he needed to get back to London fast.

This is where we owe a big thank you to Arsène Wenger, whose Arsenal team we play this afternoon at the Emirates. To go to Swansea we borrowed Arsenal's plane and flew to Cardiff. What a difference that made. It is amazing how relaxing a 35-minute flight is compared to hours on the motorway. It also meant Joey got back and to the hospital well in time to help his partner, Georgia, who had held on so considerately, through the birth of baby Cassius.

So when we see Arsène today we'll have to say "thanks very much". I even sat in his seat. I made sure I took all my rubbish out of the seat-back pocket too. I didn't want to leave it all mucky for him.

2. I set a record by not substituting anyone

I don't expect Arsène will do us any more favours today, but it is great just to be playing at places like Arsenal and we go there in good heart after coming back from Swansea with a well-earned point. You don't realise how difficult a place the Liberty Stadium is to go. Jamie Mackie's goal was only the third they've conceded at home all season. They've had huge amounts of possession even against big clubs, so we did really well to match them. We played so well in the second half I didn't make any changes which, I was amazed to discover, meant we were the first Premier League team this season to go through a match without making a substitution.

Adel Taarabt must have been absolutely flabbergasted at not being taken off but he was doing well. Maybe he was on a high after being called up for the Cup of African Nations by Morocco.

We'll also lose Armand Traoré to Senegal. It does make it difficult for us, but in a way it is a nice problem to have. I didn't think I'd be worrying about international call-ups when I arrived at Loftus Road to find a club fighting against relegation to League One.

3. Games galore and the window – it's chaos

I'd like to wish everybody a Happy New Year, but I have to admit it is not a great time of year for football managers. There are so many games and then the transfer window opens in the middle of them. It is absolute chaos.

On the one hand I'm trying to juggle my squad to make sure players get rest when they need it, while trying to combat different opponents, on the other I'm trying to get players in and these days that's a long process.

For example, last summer I spent six weeks talking to Watford and Danny Graham, only to miss out at the end because we couldn't agree with the club or player at the time. He signed for Swansea and I couldn't blame him, though inevitably he scored against us on Tuesday. I even brought him to the house to meet Sharon. When I mentioned that this week some papers got carried away, as usual, but I do think women are good judges of people. I'm always interested to see what her first impressions are.

This is an important window for us, having had to rush things in August, and we have been lining up targets for ages. I'd love to get someone in for Monday's match against Norwich but that will be very difficult. Fortunately, we then have 16 days before our next league match, so hopefully I'll get some business done then.

At least the window did not open last night. Then we might have been facing Thierry Henry as well as Robin van Persie today....

Interesting article re New London Stadia, including for QPR: "Finance and fans prove obstacles to new Stadia"

- Three Year Flashback: Briatore on Running QPR....Sixteen Year Flashback: Nigel Quashie Made his QPR Debut.

- What the Premiership Table Looked like a Year Ago: Blackpool 8th with 25 points

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/neil-warnock-how-arsne-lent-joey-wings-for-the-birth-of-baby-cassius-6283268.html
">Independent


Absolute Radio - QPR are in trouble - Wright

By Julian Shea.

Robin van Persie will find himself the centre of attention on Saturday, as he has for most of the year, when Arsenal take on QPR - but enjoy the spotlight while you have it, because after that, it's all about Thierry Henry.

The Gunners' game with QPR is the final Absolute Radio Rock 'n Roll Football commentary match of the year, with van Persie needing three more goals to break Alan Shearer's Premier League record of 36 goals for a calendar year.

The Dutchman has kept Arsenal afloat single handed sometimes in what has been a stormy season, hence the shock return of Arsenal's 34-year-old record goalscorer Henry on a two-month loan - but one man more than happy to see Henry back at the club is Absolute's Ian Wright.

"Around the team there's not a lot of help for Robin in terms of goals and if anybody else could have got Thierry Henry, of course they'd have taken him," said Wright.

"Of course he's not one for the future, but if he can come in and relieve a bit of the pressure it'll help give the other guys time to get themselves going - we can't expect too much but he's got enough to make a difference."

Manager Arsene Wenger is unashamed in his adoration for Henry, but Wright says he is unlikely to have let sentiment cloud his judgement before signing him.

"He wouldn't have signed him if he hadn't seen enough in training and didn't think it would help the team."

The scarcity of goals from elsewhere in the team has heaped pressure on van Persie, which is another reason Henry has been recalled by Wenger.

"In the last few games he hasn't nicked too many, and when he doesn't score, it doesn't seem like it's coming from the other areas, so there's a lot of pressure on him - you do worry if not van Persie, then who else?

"Wenger's hand has been forced but he's very fortunate to be able to sign someone like Henry."

Henry will be watching from the stands on Saturday, and will have a chance to assess the service he might get from Theo Walcott after the winger recovered from illness, but Bacary Sagna, Kieran Gibbs, Carl Jenkinson, Andre Santos and Jack Wilshere are all still absent.

QPR will also be adding to their squad in the January transfer window, but they are unlikely to be bringing in the likes of Henry - and for Wright, that is a cause for concern.

"They definitely need new blood because the squad they've got at the moment isn't good enough, and they could be in for a very hard end to the season," he said.

"I think there are things happening in the backroom that need to be resolved - I'm not sure there's a lot of harmony there.

"Teams down the bottom like Wigan know what it takes to stay in this league, and I think Blackburn have had a lot of bad luck, but the way QPR have played, they look weak throughout the team so they really need to strengthen. I really do worry for them."

Given Arsenal's need to share the goalscoring load around, this could be the ideal game for them to get started.

"I'm going for three, maybe 4-0 to Arsenal. I've not seen enough of QPR at the back to think Arsenal won't get a lot of goals. This could be a good game for Arsenal." Absolute Radio


- Interesting article re New London Stadia, including for QPR: "Finance and fans prove obstacles to new Stadia"

- Three Year Flashback: Briatore on Running QPR....Sixteen Year Flashback: Nigel Quashie Made his QPR Debut.

- What the Premiership Table Looked like a Year Ago: Blackpool 8th with 25 points


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Friday, December 30, 2011

Former QPR Alessandro Pellicori in the Italian News

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- Throughout the day, the QPR Report Messageboard has news updates, comments and perspectives - even links to other board comments of interest re QPR matters (on and off the field) along with football (and ONLY football) topics in general....Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
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ALESSANDRO PELLICORI

- The stories are all in Italian, but the web translations seem to suggest there are certain problematic claims being made re a match he played in Italy. A couple of web translations


- Various Other Stories (all in Italian)


- AirAsia QPR Sponsorship Updated Announcement


- REMINDER: QPR Official Supporters Club (OSC) AGM & EGM Scheduled - Saturday December 31st Deadline to Attend or Apply


- Interesting article re New London Stadia, including for QPR: "Finance and fans prove obstacles to new Stadia"

- Three Year Flashback: Briatore on Running QPR....Sixteen Year Flashback: Nigel Quashie Made his QPR Debut.

- NEXT: Arsenal-QPR: Past Games/Reports/Photos..."Played for Both Clubs"

- What the Premiership Table Looked like a Year Ago: Blackpool 8th with 25 points

- QPR-Indian Connection Continues

QPR Report Friday: AirAsia Sponsorship...Most Popular QPR Player...OSC Deadline...Next: Arsenal

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- NEXT: Arsenal-QPR: Past Games/Reports/Photos..."Played for Both Clubs"
-
- Throughout the day, the QPR Report Messageboard has news updates, comments and perspectives - even links to other board comments of interest re QPR matters (on and off the field) along with football (and ONLY football) topics in general....Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
__________________________________________________________________________________

- UPDATE: Alessandro Pellicori Mentioned re Italian Football Scandal


- REMINDER: QPR Official Supporters Club (OSC) AGM & EGM Scheduled - Saturday December 31st Deadline to Attend or Apply


- Interesting article re New London Stadia, including for QPR: "Finance and fans prove obstacles to new Stadia"

- Three Year Flashback: Briatore on Running QPR....Sixteen Year Flashback: Nigel Quashie Made his QPR Debut.

- NEXT: Arsenal-QPR: Past Games/Reports/Photos..."Played for Both Clubs"

- What the Premiership Table Looked like a Year Ago: Blackpool 8th with 25 points

- QPR-Indian Connection Continues


Ed Wyman/Bleacher Report- Robin Van Persie and the EPL's Most Popular Players from Each Team

By Ed Wyman (Featured Columnist) on December 29, 2011 712
- Everyone has a favourite player; it is not necessarily the footballer they think is the best (though it might be), but it is one who for some reason has set himself apart from the rest.
It might be down to hard work, a special goal, loyalty or entertaining interviews. Whatever the reason, ask a fan who his favourite player is and who the best player is and you might well get two different answers.
So, lets not focus on who is the best for once, but on who each Premier League club's favourite player is. It is a difficult question to which there is rarely a definitive answer, so don't take offence if you don't agree with the player I have chosen from your club.
I have made this a list of players who, I believe, are popular among their own club's supporters, not necessarily in the wider footballing world, so Emmanuel Adebayor is not ruled out because Arsenal fans hate him, for example, nor Wayne Rooney because of Everton fans...


QPR: Paddy Kenny

Paddy Kenny is not the most glamorous QPR player; Adel Taarabt and Joey Barton both draw far more attention. However, Kenny is not as controversial as Barton, and has not fallen from grace as Taarabt has.

Instead, he has been consistently excellent, as evidenced by his recall ahead of Radek Cerny, despite the Czech's excellent performances in recent weeks.

The 33-year-old has overcome an unfortunate drug suspension, and his move to QPR seems to have reinvigorated him.

QPR are dangerously close to the relegation zone and will need Paddy Kenny to keep out as many goals as he possibly can if they are to stay up." Bleacher Report

AIR ASIA - QPR SPONSORSHIP

Not quite clear about this article, given that their was announcements in September re Air Asia/QPR Sponsorship

Bernama

December 30, 2011

AirAsia Extends Sponsorship Of 1Malaysia Racing Team

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 30 (Bernama) -- AirAsia Bhd has extended its sponsorship agreement with 1Malaysia Racing Team Sdn Bhd for a period of one year effective from Jan 1, 2012.

In a filing to Bursa Malaysia today, AirAsia said it had entered into an extension to the sponsorship agreement dated May 26, 2011 with 1Malaysia Racing Team to be an official team partner of Caterham F1, the F1 racing team formerly known as Team Lotus and title sponsor of the Caterham F1 Driver Development Programme.

"Under the extension, AirAsia shall be an Official Team Partner of Caterham F1 and title sponsors of the programme for the duration of the 2012 F1 racing season at the same terms as provided in the agreement, except in relation to the sponsorship amount from the company to Caterham F1," AirAsia said.

The sponsorship amount from AirAsia to Caterham F1 includes RM5.36 million for company media value/space and RM1 million for further expenditure in relation to advertising, on ground and public relations-related activities with Caterham F1.

AirAsia said through continuous association with F1, the company intended to elevate its brand perception from that of a low-cost carrier to a brand associated with high-end sports and cutting-edge F1 technology.

AirAsia intends to use sports sponsorship and sports branding to drive consumer aspirations and build sports-related themes in relation to sales campaigns for various flight destinations.

In a separate statement, AirAsia said that it had today signed an agreement with QPR Holdings Limited, the parent company of Queens Park Rangers Football Club, for the sponsorship of the QPR away shirt in the Barclays Premier League.

In consideration of the rights to be made available to the company, Airasia will pay QPR GBP350,000 for a term of one year as sponsorship fees.

AirAsia will receive among others the rights to be the official "Away Shirt" sponsor of QPR, the designation of "Official Partner of QPR" for advertising and promotional purposes, and the licence to use QPR Intellectual Property for advertising and promotional purposes.

Others include the rights to advertise at the QPR Loftus Road Stadium on match days and advertising in QPR official match programme and other QPR publications.

On Sept 12 this year, AirAsia signed a term sheet with an intention of signing today's agreement with QPR for the sponsorship of the QPR away shirt in the Barclays Premier League.

-- BERNAMA


Also...

Malaysia Today -RM18 mil for EPL at the expense of Sabah

Queville To | December 30, 2011

The move to re-route flights from Sabah has made foreign investors 'jittery', says DAP.

KOTA KINABALU: Was the decision to cancel outgoing flights from Sabah to Japan, Korea and Australia aimed at ‘allowing’ MAS to blow RM18 million on sponsorship of the English Premier League (EPL) to beef up Tony Fernandes’s image?

This is the question that’s sizzling through the local grapevines following a recent report in a national daily.

The controversial sponsorship of an EPL club by AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines (MAS) has further incensed locals who are already stewing over MAS’ irrational decision to cancel outgoing flights to the east from Sabah.

Sabah DAP has questioned the two airlines for their multi-million ringgit sponsorship of Queens Park Rangers (QPR) whilst trimming flights in and out of the state to purportedly “save money”.

State DAP secretary, Dr Edwin Bosi said MAS sponsorship of the home jersey of QPR together with AirAsia’s sponsorship of the away jersey is a first for the English Premier League and celebrates MAS’s recent collaboration framework with AirAsia.
Quoting MAS executive director Mohammed Rashdan Yusof, an English daily reported that the sponsorship for the QPR home jersey in the Barclays Premier League will cost the national carrier some RM18 million.

It was reported that the two-year sponsorship fee for both MAS and AirAsia for the club totals some RM30 million.
AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes only recently acquired a stake in the football club. He is currently its chairman.
“While MAS complains of losing in many of its sectors, their sponsorship of Queens Park Rangers is questionable. The sponsorship is not cheap and there is no guarantee of returns.
“Most analysts according to the report are not thrilled by this MAS sponsorship deal. They feel that MAS should be focusing on strengthening its flagging financial status and showing some concrete moves towards this end. Sabah DAP concurs with this view.

“It looks like MAS is being used to support the “recreation” of AirAsia’s chief steward and major shareholder who is the chairman of QPR,” Bosi pointed out in a statement issued here yesterday.
Foreign investors jittery

He also said Sabah DAP sympathizes with the Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) government for not being able to do anything about MAS recent decision to suspend four regional routes from Sabah next year, apart from the eight international flights taken off its schedule in 2012, despite a strong-and-friendly relationship with the federal government.
“What is the point of (the state government) just expressing being upset?
“The state government should read and take heed of the grouses of the players in tourism, hotels and manufacturing sectors. They are the experts and the engine of economic growth in Sabah.
“With this type of behaviour, even the foreign investors will be jittery and lose confidence.

“Sabah DAP would like to reiterate that only with a change of government in Putrajaya we will be able to do something about MAS.
“As a national carrier MAS has failed the people of Malaysia for downsizing its operations. The government is partly to be blame for the gradual demise of MAS in this sector,” he said.
In a separate statement, MP for Kota Kinabalu, Hiew King Cheu urged MAS to reconsider its decision, stressing that travellers must first be adequately consulted.
Inconvenience all around
He said he had received a flood of complaints from the public angered by the re-routing of these international flights via Kuala Lumpur instead of flying directly to the various overseas destinations like China, Japan, Australia, and even to Sandakan.
“This has caused much inconveniences and problems to many travellers. The re-routing via Kuala Lumpur may not suit every one’s travel plans not forgetting the time spent waiting for connecting flights,” he said.

He claimed that this has inevitably resulted in many travellers cancelling their earlier booking with MAS and switching to the other airlines despite paying more.
“MAS should compensate the travellers in cancelling the particular route to overseas. This is necessary because the travellers have to spend extra money to book on to other foreign airlines in the region,” he said.
Hiew also reminded the national carrier not to ignore its social responsibility to Malaysians.
“Some of these international routes might not be profitable but in order to serve the community and meet their needs, these routes must be maintained even at a loss,” he said. Free Malaysia Today

[Rate of exchange:


And just of interest, re Tony Fernandes and QPR: From a few weeks ago

Borneo Post

Let’s talk about Tony
by Ghaz Ghazali. Posted on December 4, 2011, Sunday
Tan Sri Tony Fernandes has been called many things — from a ‘no-frill CEO’ to downright ‘crook’.
“It’s unbelievable to hear what people have been calling me. An MP once called me ‘kucing kurap’ (ringworm-infested stray cat — an expression to denote the less desirable members of society),” said the co-founder and captain of the nation’s first low-cost carrier (LCC) AirAsia.

THE FORTUNE KING: Dressed as the Chinese God of Wealth, Fernandes met guests at the Low Cost Carrier Terminal in Sepang and gave ‘ang pow’ to children.
Ever the outspoken one, he quickly added: “The Japanese, however, chose me as one of the 100 most influential people in their country alongside two other only foreigners — Apple founder, the late Steve Jobs, and Tesla Motors chief executive Elon Musk.
“Don’t you think there’s something not right here,” he jokingly told thesundaypost. This year marks the 10th anniversary of AirAsia. What started as a two-plane airline a decade ago is now operating a fleet of more than 100 aircraft. But it has not come without challenges.
“There have been so many misconceptions. While I have no regret, I do wish I don’t have to fight so much for what I believe is right. There has been so much ‘blood’ with Malaysia Airlines …a nd now, with Malaysia Airports.“I know there are so many who want to hang me now,” he laughed.
Fernandes was in the news recently, venting his frustrations at Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd in the social media for raising airport taxes on passengers as well as aircraft landing and parking charges for airlines. Fernandes said while he’s not losing too much sleep over it, it was a shame AirAsia was always made out to be the villain.
“Perhaps along the lines I’ve been a poor communicator. Perhaps we are too different but it would’ve been nicer if people understood what we’d been trying to do, and supported us all the way instead of villifying us without even coming to see us and discuss.”
Ultimate challenge
Nevertheless, Fernandes said there’s still much to do – like finding a successor. To him, it remains the company’s ultimate challenge.
“A good leader should know when to step down. If I’m a good leader, I’d go when I can be sure the new leader can run the company better. Only then I’d be considered successful.
“The question is who’s going to take over from me and Kamarudin (AirAsia’s co-founder and deputy chief) perhaps in the next five years? There has to be a new chief by then.
“Having said that, a great thing about AirAsia is that there’s lot of good and capable people here and in Thailand,” Fernandes disclosed.
But the man still has heaps on his plate right now.
“It would be a lie to say it’s easy. I’m sure Aziz Laikar, (AirAsia’s commercial and communications spokesperson) has nightmares trying to co-ordinate my time — plus I’m all over the world, making statements he knows nothing about.
“But you know what? Live life once. If I were hit by a bus tomorrow, I won’t complain – I had a great life. A Malaysian, growing up and then suddenly realising I own an airline, a football club and a Formula One racing team – unbelievable! It’s tough on my body, yes, but would I not repeat it? Definitely not – but I won’t change anything at al either,” he said.
Different ball game
Speaking of football clubs, Fernandes – who owns the English Premier League Club, Queen Park Rangers (QPR) – said he has plans for the fans here and Sabah.
“We want to put on record that AirAsia has done a lot for Sarawak all these years, and we can and want to do more. What I want is for people to approach and tell me about their problems, their ideas and so on. I’m planning to do this thing for QPR fans in Kuching and Kota Kinabalu in the first week of January next year.”
Most likely, Fernandes hinted, he might bring QPR players here to meet the fans.
“Rather than bringing the players to Kuala Lumpur, I want to fly the team to Kuching and Kota Kinabalu. I know AirAsia owes a lot to East Malaysia. As such, we want to say thank you.
“It would be great if we could do something different. I believe the QPR team would love Sarawak and Sabah,” he added.

Upcoming plans
With his journey almost reaching the end, 47-year-old Fernandes is happy he and the team have delivered a profitable airline alongside the right strategy and a few viable joint ventures.
“It’s quite sad really. Somebody told me in three years I would hit ‘Hawaiian Five-0’ but I never consider myself old.”
He said AirAsia wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of Sabah and Sarawak. “This is my first 10-year interview, and I believe it’s significant for me to speak to the people of Sarawak and Sabah. I’m the sort of person who never forgets anyone who has helped us. Don’t think for one minute AirAsia will ever abandon Sarawak and Sabah.
“Were only 10 years old. Imagine what we can do for Sarawak and Sabah over the next 10 years. Give us the support and we’ll do a lot more,” he added.
“If only the whole ofMalaysiawere likeSarawakandSabah, we’d have a better country.”
Borneo Post


QPR Official Site
In-form striker Heidar Helguson has penned a new deal at Loftus Road.


The 34 year-old Icelandic international, who has bagged seven goals in twelve appearances in the Premier League this season, has been rewarded for his stunning start to the campaign with a new deal which runs to the summer of 2013.

Article continues
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Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, a delighted Neil Warnock said: "I fought tooth and nail to keep Heidar here over the summer, because I knew he could be a threat for us in the Premier League.

"He's proved time and again what a good player he is.

"He's more than earned this new deal - no-one deserves it more.

"He's a credit to his profession and it couldn't happen to a nicer lad."

Helguson has now scored 26 goals in the famous Blue and White Hoops and Warnock added: "We know he's not going to play every game at his age, which is why we need to add to our options in that department.

"It's something we're working on and we're quite hopeful we'll be successful in our pursuit."

Warnock also revealed he hopes to tie down a few more of his current crop to new deals in the coming weeks, adding: "With a little bit of luck hopefully we can get one or two more of the lads that are here to sign new contracts over the next few weeks." QPR

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Official Supporters Club Meet Deadline...Helguson Deal...Balanta's "Demons"...Del Piero-QPR Flashback...Rowlands Returns

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- On This Day, Six years ago: "QPR are now Sailing in Safe Waters" Statement


(Photo from Indys)-- NEXT: Arsenal-QPR: Past Games/Reports/Photos..."Played for Both Clubs"
-
- Throughout the day, the QPR Report Messageboard has news updates, comments and perspectives - even links to other board comments of interest re QPR matters (on and off the field) along with football (and ONLY football) topics in general....Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
__________________________________________________________________________________

- REMINDER: QPR Official Supporters Club (OSC) AGM & EGM Scheduled - December 31st Deadline to Attend or Apply


- NEXT: Arsenal-QPR: Past Games/Reports/Photos..."Played for Both Clubs"


- Ex-QPR Frank McLintock Turns 72

- What the Premiership Table Looked like a Year Ago: Blackpool 8th with 25 points

- QPR-Indian Connection Continues


- As QPR are being linked in the press to Juventus' 37 year old Del Piero, Flashback four years to QPR being linked to Del Piero!


QPR Official Site: Heidar Pens New Deal

In-form striker Heidar Helguson has penned a new deal at Loftus Road.

The 34 year-old Icelandic international, who has bagged seven goals in twelve appearances in the Premier League this season, has been rewarded for his stunning start to the campaign with a new deal which runs to the summer of 2013.

Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, a delighted Neil Warnock said: "I fought tooth and nail to keep Heidar here over the summer, because I knew he could be a threat for us in the Premier League.

"He's proved time and again what a good player he is.

"He's more than earned this new deal - no-one deserves it more.

"He's a credit to his profession and it couldn't happen to a nicer lad."

Helguson has now scored 26 goals in the famous Blue and White Hoops and Warnock added: "We know he's not going to play every game at his age, which is why we need to add to our options in that department.

"It's something we're working on and we're quite hopeful we'll be successful in our pursuit."

Warnock also revealed he hopes to tie down a few more of his current crop to new deals in the coming weeks, adding: "With a little bit of luck hopefully we can get one or two more of the lads that are here to sign new contracts over the next few weeks. QPR


QPR Official Site

TARBS & TRAORE CALLED UP
Posted on: Thu 29 Dec 2011

Adel Taarabt and Armand Traore have been called up to represent Morocco and Senegal respectively in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Taarabt has been named in the Moroccan squad for the showcase in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, whilst Traore has been called up to a strong Senegal squad.

Both players will join up with their respective countries ahead of the tournament which starts on January 21st and runs through to February 12th.

Neil Warnock told www.qpr.co.uk: "Unfortunately we're going to lose Armand and Adel after the FA Cup tie at Milton Keynes.

"Whilst we're all hoping they return as soon as possible, I fancy Senegal to reach the Final of the tournament, which would mean we'd be without Armand until mid-February. QPR


Teamtalk - League One - Rowlands returns to QPR

Martin Rowlands has returned to QPR following the end of his loan spell at Wycombe.


Former Chairboys midfielder Rowlands returned to Adams Park after a 14-year absence in late September, agreeing a three-month deal at the League One club.
However, his stay in Buckinghamshire was blighted by niggling injuries and the 32-year-old made just eight league outings for Gary Waddock's side, two as a substitute, and one FA Cup appearance.
His last run out came from the bench during the 3-1 home win over Exeter on Boxing Day.
PA Sport



MK Dons Official Site

ANGELO TO EXORCISE BEES GHOSTS

Wed 28 Dec 2011

Dons boss Karl Robinson has hinted that Angelo Balanta may play a prominent part in their New Year's Eve League 1 encounter at Brentford.

It was at Brentford's Griffin Park that an ankle injury to Balanta resulted in surgery and forced the Columbian-born winger to sit out four months of the season. In that game, which the Dons won 2-0, Balanta scored a spectacular half-volley and was a constant handful for the Brentford defence.

The injury to on-loan QPR forward Balanta, which denied Robinson of a key player during a long stretch of the season, remains fresh in the manager's mind and he believes the talented player, who has spent recent weeks coming off the bench, has something to prove at Brentford.

Speaking to the media Robinson said: "Angelo might get his chance against Brentford; I thought he was outstanding there last year, he scored a worldy, and then someone injured him. He's got to put some demons to bed; he's got a lot of things to prove so I can't wait to see him."

The New Year's Eve date at Brentford is currently set to be Balanta's last game for MK Dons as his loan spell away from parent club QPR, who the Dons face in the FA Cup with Budweiser Third Round in over a week's time, runs out although Robinson has expressed his desire to keep the 21-year-old at stadiummk.

http://www.mkdons.com/page/NewsDetail/0,,10420~2558821,00.html

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

QPR Report Wednesday: Swansea Reports...Next: Arsenal...Crushing Chelsea...Frank McLintock Turns 72

-
- Ex-QPR Frank McLintock Turns 72
-
- Throughout the day, the QPR Report Messageboard has news updates, comments and perspectives - even links to other board comments of interest re QPR matters (on and off the field) along with football (and ONLY football) topics in general....Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
__________________________________________________________________________________

- VIDEO Highlights of Swansea vs QPR

- NEXT: Arsenal-QPR: Past Games/Reports/Photos..."Played for Both Clubs"

- Traore Off to the African Nations Cup in January

- Ex-QPR Frank McLintock Turns 72

- What the Premiership Table Looked like a Year Ago: Blackpool 8th with 25 points

- On this Day: QPR Crush Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

- QPR-Indian Connection Continues

- REMINDER: QPR Official Supporters Club (OSC) AGM & EGM Scheduled - December 31st Deadline to Attend or Apply

Some Recent Christmas Greetings to QPR Fans From Loftus Road
- The QPR Chaplain Reflects


SWANSEA vs QPR
- Photos from Swansea vs QPR

QPR Official Site WARNOCK'S SWANS VERDICT

Neil Warnock was pleased with QPR's character, as Rangers came back from a goal down to claim a fully-deserved point against Swansea City.

Danny Graham 'handed' the Swans an early lead when he fired home from 18-yards despite handling in the build-up to the goal, before Jamie Mackie drew QPR level on 57 minutes.

Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Warnock said: "Their goal was a total injustice.

"We thought it was a blatant handball.

"The ref said he saw it but deemed it to be accidental, which is what worries me more than anything.

"When you watch it - it's the most obvious handball.

"On the flip side, they think they should have had a penalty and I said to Brendan (Rodgers) afterwards that I hoped it was the most blatant penalty you'll ever see, because of what happened to us for their goal."

Warnock added: "I said at half-time the second goal of the game would be crucial and once we got it I honestly thought we would go on to win the game.

"It's a good point here though.

"We played a lot quicker in the second half and I thought we were the better side.

"We looked much more of a threat."

The recalled Adel Taarabt was one of the stars of the show for Rangers in the second half and Warnock hailed his performance, adding: "Adel was super today.

"He probably deserved to be on the winning side, as did Ali Faurlin, who was magnificent."

Warnock added: "I'm delighted for Jamie (Mackie).

"He's a smashing lad, who gives us everything.

"When the keeper came out and spread himself I knew he'd tuck it away.

"He took it really well." QPR


GUARDIAN/Joe Lovejoy - Michel Vorm saves Swansea after Jamie Mackie earns point for QPR


Liberty Stadium

Queens Park Rangers were the better team when these two were in the Championship last season, Swansea City are better now, but the enigma that is Adel Taarabt turned back the clock on Tuesday to earn a draw for the club he is anxious to leave.

Neil Warnock, who is prepared to sell the Moroccan maverick to the highest bidder when the transfer window opens, restored him to the starting lineup for the first time since the end of October. He was rewarded with an influential performance which enabled QPR to wrest the initiative away from the Swans after they had taken an early lead.

Like his manager, Taarabt is not everybody's cup of Earl Grey, but he can play when the mood takes him and here he was back to something like the form that made him Championship player of the year last season, ahead of Craig Bellamy et al. Full of more dubious self-belief than the whole cast of The X Factor, he insists he should be playing Champions League football and has told his team‑mates so. But Europe's finest appear not to share that exaggerated opinion, and decent offers for his services have not been forthcoming.

If that situation changes next month and QPR get the £15m they want, Warnock will not be displeased, having grown tired of a player who gives a double meaning to the label "schemer". Taarabt will be gone anyway in the second week of January, when he joins up with Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations. He was rivalled for man-of-the-match honours here by Holland's Kemy Agustien who, returning after hamstring trouble, gave Swansea the edge in midfield until Angel Rangel's withdrawal with an ankle injury forced Agustien into emergency service at full-back.

Both teams could have done with maximum points to keep them out of the relegation maelstrom, but the two of them seem good enough to stay up regardless. QPR are closest to the bottom three, but Warnock says he has money to spend and confidently expects to bring in "three or four" reinforcements in January.

The rival managers, good friends since gaining promotion together last season, eventually accepted that the draw was the most equitable outcome, but not before castigating the referee, Lee Probert, who had a shocker. He failed to penalise Danny Graham for handball in the act of scoring Swansea's goal, denied the Welsh team an obvious penalty and should have sent off Joey Barton for a dreadful foul on Jazz Richards. Barton said afterwards he was "off to hospital" where his wife was in labour. He was lucky not to be facing extended paternity leave.

Swansea were rewarded for a bright start with a goal in the 14th minute. Graham turned one way and then the other, bemusing Luke Young and Fitz Hall, before burying a right-footed shot low inside Paddy Kenny's left-hand post. It was a top-class strike by the £3.75m recruit from Watford, who was a slow starter at Premier League level but has now scored six in his last 11 games.

QPR claimed the ball hit Graham's hand during his execution and replays suggested they had a case. Warnock said: "The referee told me he saw the handball, but that it wasn't deliberate. That disappoints me more than if he'd missed it."

At half-time QPR had only Barton's shot from distance to show for their hurrying and scurrying, but Taarabt was starting to make his presence felt and in the 58th minute they drew level via a "route one" equaliser. The vertically challenged Leon Britton could only back-head Paddy Kenny's long clearance to Jamie Mackie, who scored from near the penalty spot.

Swansea should have had their penalty when Graham was floored by Armand Traoré. Brendan Rodgers said of the incident: "Traoré made the foul and normally, in the box with the referee so close, it's a penalty, but the referee's reaction probably summed up his performance. He was inconsistent throughout the game."

Warnock said: "I thought that was the most stonewall penalty you'll see. I said so to Brendan afterwards and we had a good laugh about it. Anyone can make a mistake, but at the end of the day they've got to know the rules." Guardian


QPR OFFICIAL SITE

Jamie Mackie's 57th-minute effort earned QPR a deserved share of the spoils at the Liberty Stadium.

In front of the live Sky Sports cameras, Swansea were ahead after just 14 minutes through Danny Graham.

There was a question of handball against the Swans forward in the build-up - but there was no doubting the quality of Graham's eventual effort, after he fired home a magnificent effort from 20 yards.

Article continues
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Rangers - who were unfortunate to be behind - continued to press and, just 12 minutes after the break, found a warranted equaliser.

Leon Britton's misplaced header after a long kick from Paddy Kenny put Mackie in the clear, before the R's attacker kept his cool to slide the Hoops level.

Both sides pushed for a second, but the draw was probably a fair outcome.

Warnock rang the changes in South Wales, making no less than three alterations to his R's side that picked up a 3-2 defeat against Sunderland in W12 on Wednesday night.

Fitz Hall, Clint Hill and Adel Taarabt were all handed starts - at the expense of Matt Connolly, Danny Gabbidon and Shaun Wright Phillips respectively.

Kenny was in goal for QPR, in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Luke Young, Hall, Hill and Armand Traore lined up at the back.

Shaun Derry and Alejandro Faurlin were in defensive midfield, behind the more advanced trio of Joey Barton, Taarabt and Mackie.

Heidar Helguson - on target for his seventh league goal of the season against the Mackems last week - led the Rangers line in attack.

QPR made a bright start and looked tidy in possession - particularly through reintroduced Moroccan ace Taarabt.

It wasn't long before the R's carved open their first chance of the evening.

Barton's high ball from the right found Helguson at the back post, whose nod back across goal saw Mackie force a fine point-black save from Michel Vorm from all of three-yards out.

And the Swans keeper was again called into action on nine minutes - although his job was a little easier this time, comfortably collecting Helguson's tame effort low at his left-hand post.

Five minutes later, the hosts edged ahead with their first real opportunity of the contest.

Routledge's lofted cross found Graham, who eventually controlled - with suspicions of a hand ball - on the edge of the box before curling a shot low into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.

QPR were unfortunate to be behind but it could have been worse just two minutes later, after Ashley Williams headed a Britton corner just inches over the bar.

The Swans - buoyed by a now vocal home crowd - grew in confidence after their opener.

But it was still Rangers who continued to pose more questions.

Vorm was forced into an acrobatic save on 18 minutes.

Taarabt's quick free-kick into Barton saw the former Newcastle man unleash a 30-yard blast that was fantastically tipped over the bar by the Dutch shot-stopper.

Kenny pulled off a smart save from Graham's 20-yard drive eight minutes before the break, before the R's twice went close to levelling on the stroke of half time.

Young and Taarabt combined down the right, before the latter sent over a looping cross for Hill, who - stretching for the ball - sent a header over the target.

Moments later, Rangers again went close. Barton's pinpoint ball from the right found Helguson, who rose highest but saw his nodded effort clear the bar.

The R's continued to enjoy their fair share of possession after the half-time interval - going close on in the 51st minute.

Barton's ball into Taarabt on the right-hand edge of the box saw the gifted playmaker turn to fire in a low shot that was deflected just wide of the target.

QPR soon went close again. This time, free-flowing build-up play eventually ended in Faurlin cutting in from the right, before curling a shot past the far post.

Swansea themselves went within a whisker on 56 minutes.

Allen's cutting ball put Routledge through on goal who, albeit from an acute angle, dragged an effort wide of the left-hand post from close range.

Two minutes later, Rangers were deservedly on terms.

Kenny's kick up field was unintentionally headed back by Britton into the path of Mackie, who raced into the area before coolly sliding the ball past Vorm.

Minutes later and Mackie - now in the grove after his goal - again went close, driving past two players and into the box, before Vorm did well to collect the ball at his feet.

The Swans had strong appeals for a penalty turned down in the 73rd minute, following Traore's challenge on Graham in the box.

And just a minute later, the R's almost struck what would have been a contender for goal of the season.

Crisp passing play eventually ended with Faurlin exchanging passes with Taarabt.

Thereafter, the Moroccan opened his body on 25 yards before drilling a low shot towards the right-hand corner that forced a superb stop from Vorm, who turned the ball around the post.

Swansea City: Vorm, Williams, Caulker, Britton, Graham, Sinclair, Routledge (Dyer 57), Rangel (Moore 57) Allen, Agustien, Richards.

Subs: Tremmel, Dobbie, Monk, Lita, Gower.

Goals: Graham (14)

Bookings: Richards (42)

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry, Hall, Taarabt, Faurlin, Mackie, Traore, Barton, Young, Helguson.

Subs: Cerny, Orr, Gabbidon, Bothroyd, Connolly, Smith, Wright-Phillips.

Goals: Mackie (57)

Bookings: Hill (35), Barton (65), Taarabt (90)

Referee: Mr L Probert

Attendance: 19,570

- Eight Year Flashback: The Gianni Paladini Takeover of Port Vale is blocked

- (NonQPR) Bernie Ecclestone's Payments Deemed a Bribe

- Birthday for Richard Langley

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

TEAMS: Swansea vs QPR

-

-
- Throughout the day, the QPR Report Messageboard has news updates, comments and perspectives - even links to other board comments of interest re QPR matters (on and off the field) along with football (and ONLY football) topics in general....Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
__________________________________________________________________________________

Swansea vs QPR

Swans: Michel Vorm, Angel Rangel, Steven Caulker, Ashley Williams (capt), Jazz Richards, Kemy Agustien, Leon Britton, Joe Allen, Wayne Routledge, Scott Sinclair, Danny Graham.
Subs: Gerhard Tremmel, Garry Monk, Mark Gower, Stephen Dobbie, Nathan Dyer, Luke Moore, Leroy Lita.

QPR: Paddy Kenny, Clint Hill, Shaun Derry, Fitz Hall, Adel Taarabt, Alejandro Faurlin, Jamie Mackie, Armond Traore, Joey Barton (capt), Luke Young, Heidar Helguson.
Subs: Radek Cerny, Bradley Orr, Danny Gabbidon, Jay Bothroyd, Matt Connelly, Tommy Smith, Shaun Wright-Phillips.



Some Recent Christmas Greetings to QPR Fans From Loftus Road
- The QPR Chaplain Reflects

- Birthday for Richard Langley

- Eight Year Flashback: The Gianni Paladini Takeover of Port Vale is blocked

- Warnock on Graham Chosing Swansea over QPR

- Next Swansea: Past Games/Teams/Photos/Shared Players

- Flashback: Boxing Day 2010: QPR vs Swansea

- Year Flashback: 2010 Q&A Offering Swansea Fan Perspective I and Swansea Perspective II


- Past QPR Boxing Day Games and Team Lineups


- (NonQPR) Bernie Ecclestone's Payments Deemed a Bribe



QPR-Indian Connection Continues


Sportz Power - 370 schools in 3rd edition of South Mumbai Junior Soccer Challenger
Posted : Mon, 10/10/2011 -


MUMBAI: The third edition of South Mumbai Junior Soccer Challenger 2011, a community soccer championship and talent hunt initiative by Milind Deora, was inaugurated here over the weekend by AIFF president Praful Patel.

Over 3,000 participants have registered from 370 schools of which 270 schools are government aided, for the event - a 5-A-Side format for South Mumbai schools for boys and girls between the ages of 8-10 years, 10-12 years and 12-14 years.

The championship was played out Saturday and Sunday at University Stadium, Marine Lines & the finals will be held on 15 October at Western Railways football ground at Lower Parel.

SMJSC will also serve as a talent hunt programme for Queens Park Rangers as 30 talented youngsters will be shortlisted for a coaching clinic that will be conducted by the club's coaching teams from UK. From this training camp, two youngsters will be selected for further training as part of the Queens Park Rangers Youth training programme in UK.

Speaking on this initiative Milind Deora, who is a Member of Parliament from South Mumbai constituency, said, “It is overwhelming to see the response to my initiative of building community soccer. Through this championship I aim at providing children an opportunity to showcase their skills and learn from experts.

"Be it a student from a municipal school or private school, talent and skill should be the only parameter to judge their potential. Inculcating sportsman spirit at a young age will help develop a healthy India. Kids need the right exposure and training in football to be able to compete with international challenges or represent India globally. With this championship we hope to give students an equal opportunity that they truly deserve.”

A brainchild of Milind Deora, the annual Milind Deora South Mumbai Junior Soccer Challenger was conceptualized with a view to unearthing talent at the grassroots level.

The tournament is being sponsored by Coca Cola India, Nirmal Lifestyle and is being partnered by Queens Park Rangers (QPR), part owned by NRI business tycoon Lakshmi Mittal. The event is organized by Saran Sports. SportzPower


- Flashback: Another Ad-Hoc Documentary

AD HOC FILMS - FOOTBALL'S LAST FRONTIER

Format: Documentary. . Client: Swordfish Investments [which is Amit Bhatia and Ishan Saksensa] Date: April 2011

- We were lucky enough to uncover this story very late in the day, raise and receive full funding and have been shooting this film for the last 18 months. A fascinating account of a re-emerging interest in Indian football (considered by all the major clubs to be the last frontier of untapped talent) and the journey of two children plucked from the streets of Mumbai and flown to the UK to train with Premiership club QPR. We will be shooting the epilogue in Mumbai and Delhi very soon and the film will premiere on the festival circuit before a UK and Indian terrestrial TV broadcast.

- Click to See six minute Video Trailer AdHoc Films

- Two Year Flashback: QPR-India



Western Mail/Tim Lewis -
Swans’ Danny Graham aims to hit goal trail


DANNY Graham believes he was right to choose Swansea City over big-spending Queens Park Rangers – and he’s ready to repay the club with goals.

Graham could have been lining up against Swansea tomorrow if Brendan Rodgers hadn’t smashed the club record to bring the striker to the Liberty Stadium in June.

After 24 goals in the Championship last season, Graham was one of the most sought-after players outside the Premier League in the summer.

A host of clubs bid for the 26-year-old, including Neil Warnock’s QPR who had a £3m offer accepted, but Rodgers persuaded Graham he would be best suited to life in South Wales.

Graham was Swansea’s marquee signing of the summer at £3.5m, more than three times the £800,000 fee the club had paid for its previous record transfer Craig Beattie.

His former club Watford had given him permission to speak to QPR and Graham admits after talks with Warnock he thought hard about moving to the west London club.

Graham said: “I went to speak to QPR and I was tempted by them. They are obviously a club on the up and they have a lot of money to back that up.

“But, in terms of the football sense, I thought Swansea was better suited for me. I am a centre forward and can be a target man, but I like to play football as well.

“The way Swansea play football, they pass and move, and I thought it was better for my development as a player.

“I’m glad I joined Swansea City.”

QPR raided Swansea’s rivals Cardiff for striker Jay Bothroyd after missing out on Graham, but while the Swans’ striker has five goals in the Premier League, former City man Bothroyd has just two.

Graham says he is enjoying leading the line for Rodgers’ side, despite having to do a lot of hard graft on his own up front in the club’s last two away games at Newcastle and Everton.

Rodgers was the man who sorted the deal to take Graham to Watford back in 2009, but he left to take over as manager of Reading before ever working with the striker.

He also tried to sign Graham last January, but had to wait until the summer to finally get his man.

“Brendan was on the phone to me the morning after the play-off final,” revealed Graham, who started his career in the Premier League with Middlesbrough.

“He also tried to sign me before the window closed in January and he was also the person who set up the deal for me to go to Watford so he has shown how much he rates me as a player and how much he believes that I can come in and score goals.

“I have finally got the chance to work with him which is great. I’m loving every minute of it.

“I need to repay the faith that the gaffer has shown in me.

“To spend £3.5m is a heck of a lot of money for a club of the size of Swansea City. It’s no mean feat and smashed the club record by a couple of million pounds so I want to score goals to repay him.”

After a difficult start to the season, Graham now looks every inch a Premier League player as he leads the line for Swansea.

High-profile misses in the opening few games of the season, particularly ones against Sunderland and Arsenal, led some pundits to question whether he would be able to recreate his goal-scoring form from the Championship in the top flight.

But, once he broke his duck in the 2-0 win over Stoke at the start of October, he’s gone on to score four more goals for the Swans.

Graham has made his name as a striker who goes through hot streaks and he proved that once again with four in four games for Swansea.

His role in Rodgers’ 4-3-3 formation is not always the easiest, especially away from home when he can look isolated at times, but it is part and parcel of Swansea’s commitment to try and play passing, attractive, football despite being in their first season in the Premier League.

Graham added: “I was always confident I would score goals in this league. That’s not being arrogant or big-headed, it’s just about having belief in my ability. I’m sure every footballer has the same attitude. You need that.

“Most of my career I have played as the main striker. I played in a two and a one at Watford, and we played the same formation as here at Carlisle when we got to the play-offs. It worked and the 4-3-3 formation has always been one I’ve been fond of.

“Don’t get me wrong that at some points in a game as a striker you could do with the extra man up front, but the way that we pass and move and the fact the wingers are so quick means that some times you don’t need that.

“The style of football was the main factor for me coming here.”

Graham and Swansea will hope to get back among the goals tomorrow having gone two games without finding the net and they face a QPR side who are without a win in five games.

In contrast to Swansea’s fortunes, QPR’s best form has come away from home this season, as they’ve only won once at Loftus Road but have notched up three wins on the road.

That form will be tested against a Swansea side who have the best home record in the Premier League, with only one defeat and having conceded just two goals. Walesonline


Soccernet - Warnock targeting leaders
December 24, 2011


QPR manager Neil Warnock has highlighted a need to bring "leaders" to Loftus Road during the January transfer window.1

The club have endured a tumultuous campaign since their return to the Premier League, winning three times on the road but just once at home.

QPR currently lie two points above the relegation zone, in 16th spot, and Warnock has been vociferous in his need for new players, especially those that can shine during tough times.

"I don't think we have enough leaders," he said. "That is one department I am looking to bring players in. You can get leaders on the pitch and you can see certain players [which make you envious].

"We do have one or two here, but I probably have to look at using them a little more than I do. In the past it has always been a priority to check a player's character, but when you look at players at home and abroad it is impossible to do all your checks on every aspect of them. You go with your gut feeling really."

QPR's need for new blood and increased transfer funds have seen them linked to a host of players ahead of the window reopening.

Warnock does not expect any incoming players before the trip to Newcastle on January 15 and on Friday quashed speculation linking QPR with moves for Bristol City striker Nicky Maynard, Barcelona's Alexander Hleb and Fulham frontman Bobby Zamora.

When asked about the latter, Warnock said: "Are we not after Fulham striker Andy Johnson as well? I saw that one last week. It is not for me to talk about other people's players. I have got enough on my own plate trying to get players in.

"We are actively looking at bringing players in and we will bring players in, but it is not easy in January. You probably don't get your number one choice and you go onto your number two choice, etc.

"I don't know what choice I will get but I hope to bring one or even two forwards in and a couple of defenders. I don't know the specific numbers I am looking to sign because you don't know who becomes available.

"You can have your targets but they might be unrealistic so you have to have players as back-up that can do just as good a job if you can. We do need certain players for definite in certain areas."

While admitting he wants new players, Warnock was less forthcoming when asked about Adel Taarabt. The Morocco international has failed to shine since QPR's promotion and has been involved in a number of off-field incidents.

Taarabt has also been heavily linked with a move away from West London, with big-spending Paris St Germain mooted as a possible destination.

"I am just thinking whatever will be will be with Adel," Warnock said. "If we get an offer we can't turn down then I can use that money elsewhere, but if he continues how he has done the last two weeks it would be lovely for me.

"I like Adel. He has got to conform a little bit if he wants to stay and he has done the past couple of weeks so you never say never."

Asked what he was referring to, Warnock added: "In all walks of life you should turn up on time, shouldn't you? Whether you are a good player or a bad player, [you turn up on time].

"I don't have many issues with him. He is never going to be a trainer like Jamie Mackie, but Jamie is never going to be able to do things Adel can do, so that doesn't bother me, but you just have to be professional.

"Adel has let himself down a little bit this year but he is not on his own." Soccernet


DAILY MAIL/Laura Williamson
My wife picks my signings... but Swansea striker Graham got away, reveals Warnock


There's only one person prospective QPR signings need to impress in January – Neil Warnock's wife, Sharon.
The QPR boss says he always invites transfer targets round to his home in Richmond, south west London, so his other half can cast her eye over them.
Warnock said: 'I like my missus to see them. Women have got more idea about people.
'She gives them the once over and says: “I like him” or “I don't like him”. Or “Watch him, he didn't look you in the eyes.” She does all that.

Family man: Warnock takes prospective signings to meet his wife, Sharon (right)
'If I don't get the player I say: “That was down to you, love.”
'There have been a couple she's not liked - and she was right about them as well. It's woman's intuition.'
Striker Danny Graham passed Sharon's test last summer but QPR missed out on the 26-year-old as he opted to join Swansea City, Rangers' opponents on Monday.
Warnock said: 'She approved of Danny. She thought he was a nice lad.
'Everything was agreed, but he went to Swansea the next day because we couldn't buy him. It was disappointing but I wished him all the best. He's gone to a good club - he couldn't hang about for us any longer.

So near yet so far: Danny Graham came close to joining QPR
'We wanted so many (new players) and it didn't look like we were going to get any. I've never been so down.
'When you get promoted to the Premier League you should be on a high, but it was a disappointing time for me.
'Then (new majority shareholder) Tony (Fernandes) came in, but we're still playing catch-up really. Hopefully things will go well in January and that's what I should be judged on.'
The QPR manager's approach may seem slightly old-fashioned for a club buoyed by a new owner with money to spend in January, but Warnock insists he will stick to his tried and tested method.

In charge: Majority shareholder Tony Fernandes

'I will still speak to the players at my house,' he said. 'I would rather show them views of Richmond than our training ground! I've got more chance of selling the club that way.
'It’s an exciting time with all the plans for a new stadium, academy and the direction the board are taking and the commitment to the club. To come on board when we are just establishing ourselves is a great opportunity.
'The lure of London is also significant. At the moment it’s an exciting place to be.' Daily Mail


- The 2011 Bernie Ecclestone Christmas Card (and Previous Years' Cards)

- QPR Official Supporters Club (OSC) AGM & EGM Scheduled


Some Recent Christmas Greetings to QPR Fans From Loftus Road

QPR Report Tuesday Update: Swansea...QPR India...Flashbacks

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- Throughout the day, the QPR Report Messageboard has news updates, comments and perspectives - even links to other board comments of interest re QPR matters (on and off the field) along with football (and ONLY football) topics in general....Also Follow: QPR REPORT ON TWITTER
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- The QPR Chaplain Reflects

- Birthday for Richard Langley

- Eight Year Flashback: The Gianni Paladini Takeover of Port Vale is blocked

- Warnock on Graham Chosing Swansea over QPR

- Next Swansea: Past Games/Teams/Photos/Shared Players

- Flashback: Boxing Day 2010: QPR vs Swansea

- Year Flashback: 2010 Q&A Offering Swansea Fan Perspective I and Swansea Perspective II


- Past QPR Boxing Day Games and Team Lineups


- (NonQPR) Bernie Ecclestone's Payments Deemed a Bribe



QPR-Indian Connection Continues


Sportz Power - 370 schools in 3rd edition of South Mumbai Junior Soccer Challenger
Posted : Mon, 10/10/2011 -


MUMBAI: The third edition of South Mumbai Junior Soccer Challenger 2011, a community soccer championship and talent hunt initiative by Milind Deora, was inaugurated here over the weekend by AIFF president Praful Patel.

Over 3,000 participants have registered from 370 schools of which 270 schools are government aided, for the event - a 5-A-Side format for South Mumbai schools for boys and girls between the ages of 8-10 years, 10-12 years and 12-14 years.

The championship was played out Saturday and Sunday at University Stadium, Marine Lines & the finals will be held on 15 October at Western Railways football ground at Lower Parel.

SMJSC will also serve as a talent hunt programme for Queens Park Rangers as 30 talented youngsters will be shortlisted for a coaching clinic that will be conducted by the club's coaching teams from UK. From this training camp, two youngsters will be selected for further training as part of the Queens Park Rangers Youth training programme in UK.

Speaking on this initiative Milind Deora, who is a Member of Parliament from South Mumbai constituency, said, “It is overwhelming to see the response to my initiative of building community soccer. Through this championship I aim at providing children an opportunity to showcase their skills and learn from experts.

"Be it a student from a municipal school or private school, talent and skill should be the only parameter to judge their potential. Inculcating sportsman spirit at a young age will help develop a healthy India. Kids need the right exposure and training in football to be able to compete with international challenges or represent India globally. With this championship we hope to give students an equal opportunity that they truly deserve.”

A brainchild of Milind Deora, the annual Milind Deora South Mumbai Junior Soccer Challenger was conceptualized with a view to unearthing talent at the grassroots level.

The tournament is being sponsored by Coca Cola India, Nirmal Lifestyle and is being partnered by Queens Park Rangers (QPR), part owned by NRI business tycoon Lakshmi Mittal. The event is organized by Saran Sports. SportzPower


- Flashback: Another Ad-Hoc Documentary

AD HOC FILMS - FOOTBALL'S LAST FRONTIER

Format: Documentary. . Client: Swordfish Investments [which is Amit Bhatia and Ishan Saksensa] Date: April 2011

- We were lucky enough to uncover this story very late in the day, raise and receive full funding and have been shooting this film for the last 18 months. A fascinating account of a re-emerging interest in Indian football (considered by all the major clubs to be the last frontier of untapped talent) and the journey of two children plucked from the streets of Mumbai and flown to the UK to train with Premiership club QPR. We will be shooting the epilogue in Mumbai and Delhi very soon and the film will premiere on the festival circuit before a UK and Indian terrestrial TV broadcast.

- Click to See six minute Video Trailer AdHoc Films

- Two Year Flashback: QPR-India



Western Mail/Tim Lewis -
Swans’ Danny Graham aims to hit goal trail


DANNY Graham believes he was right to choose Swansea City over big-spending Queens Park Rangers – and he’s ready to repay the club with goals.

Graham could have been lining up against Swansea tomorrow if Brendan Rodgers hadn’t smashed the club record to bring the striker to the Liberty Stadium in June.

After 24 goals in the Championship last season, Graham was one of the most sought-after players outside the Premier League in the summer.

A host of clubs bid for the 26-year-old, including Neil Warnock’s QPR who had a £3m offer accepted, but Rodgers persuaded Graham he would be best suited to life in South Wales.

Graham was Swansea’s marquee signing of the summer at £3.5m, more than three times the £800,000 fee the club had paid for its previous record transfer Craig Beattie.

His former club Watford had given him permission to speak to QPR and Graham admits after talks with Warnock he thought hard about moving to the west London club.

Graham said: “I went to speak to QPR and I was tempted by them. They are obviously a club on the up and they have a lot of money to back that up.

“But, in terms of the football sense, I thought Swansea was better suited for me. I am a centre forward and can be a target man, but I like to play football as well.

“The way Swansea play football, they pass and move, and I thought it was better for my development as a player.

“I’m glad I joined Swansea City.”

QPR raided Swansea’s rivals Cardiff for striker Jay Bothroyd after missing out on Graham, but while the Swans’ striker has five goals in the Premier League, former City man Bothroyd has just two.

Graham says he is enjoying leading the line for Rodgers’ side, despite having to do a lot of hard graft on his own up front in the club’s last two away games at Newcastle and Everton.

Rodgers was the man who sorted the deal to take Graham to Watford back in 2009, but he left to take over as manager of Reading before ever working with the striker.

He also tried to sign Graham last January, but had to wait until the summer to finally get his man.

“Brendan was on the phone to me the morning after the play-off final,” revealed Graham, who started his career in the Premier League with Middlesbrough.

“He also tried to sign me before the window closed in January and he was also the person who set up the deal for me to go to Watford so he has shown how much he rates me as a player and how much he believes that I can come in and score goals.

“I have finally got the chance to work with him which is great. I’m loving every minute of it.

“I need to repay the faith that the gaffer has shown in me.

“To spend £3.5m is a heck of a lot of money for a club of the size of Swansea City. It’s no mean feat and smashed the club record by a couple of million pounds so I want to score goals to repay him.”

After a difficult start to the season, Graham now looks every inch a Premier League player as he leads the line for Swansea.

High-profile misses in the opening few games of the season, particularly ones against Sunderland and Arsenal, led some pundits to question whether he would be able to recreate his goal-scoring form from the Championship in the top flight.

But, once he broke his duck in the 2-0 win over Stoke at the start of October, he’s gone on to score four more goals for the Swans.

Graham has made his name as a striker who goes through hot streaks and he proved that once again with four in four games for Swansea.

His role in Rodgers’ 4-3-3 formation is not always the easiest, especially away from home when he can look isolated at times, but it is part and parcel of Swansea’s commitment to try and play passing, attractive, football despite being in their first season in the Premier League.

Graham added: “I was always confident I would score goals in this league. That’s not being arrogant or big-headed, it’s just about having belief in my ability. I’m sure every footballer has the same attitude. You need that.

“Most of my career I have played as the main striker. I played in a two and a one at Watford, and we played the same formation as here at Carlisle when we got to the play-offs. It worked and the 4-3-3 formation has always been one I’ve been fond of.

“Don’t get me wrong that at some points in a game as a striker you could do with the extra man up front, but the way that we pass and move and the fact the wingers are so quick means that some times you don’t need that.

“The style of football was the main factor for me coming here.”

Graham and Swansea will hope to get back among the goals tomorrow having gone two games without finding the net and they face a QPR side who are without a win in five games.

In contrast to Swansea’s fortunes, QPR’s best form has come away from home this season, as they’ve only won once at Loftus Road but have notched up three wins on the road.

That form will be tested against a Swansea side who have the best home record in the Premier League, with only one defeat and having conceded just two goals. Walesonline


Soccernet - Warnock targeting leaders
December 24, 2011


QPR manager Neil Warnock has highlighted a need to bring "leaders" to Loftus Road during the January transfer window.1

The club have endured a tumultuous campaign since their return to the Premier League, winning three times on the road but just once at home.

QPR currently lie two points above the relegation zone, in 16th spot, and Warnock has been vociferous in his need for new players, especially those that can shine during tough times.

"I don't think we have enough leaders," he said. "That is one department I am looking to bring players in. You can get leaders on the pitch and you can see certain players [which make you envious].

"We do have one or two here, but I probably have to look at using them a little more than I do. In the past it has always been a priority to check a player's character, but when you look at players at home and abroad it is impossible to do all your checks on every aspect of them. You go with your gut feeling really."

QPR's need for new blood and increased transfer funds have seen them linked to a host of players ahead of the window reopening.

Warnock does not expect any incoming players before the trip to Newcastle on January 15 and on Friday quashed speculation linking QPR with moves for Bristol City striker Nicky Maynard, Barcelona's Alexander Hleb and Fulham frontman Bobby Zamora.

When asked about the latter, Warnock said: "Are we not after Fulham striker Andy Johnson as well? I saw that one last week. It is not for me to talk about other people's players. I have got enough on my own plate trying to get players in.

"We are actively looking at bringing players in and we will bring players in, but it is not easy in January. You probably don't get your number one choice and you go onto your number two choice, etc.

"I don't know what choice I will get but I hope to bring one or even two forwards in and a couple of defenders. I don't know the specific numbers I am looking to sign because you don't know who becomes available.

"You can have your targets but they might be unrealistic so you have to have players as back-up that can do just as good a job if you can. We do need certain players for definite in certain areas."

While admitting he wants new players, Warnock was less forthcoming when asked about Adel Taarabt. The Morocco international has failed to shine since QPR's promotion and has been involved in a number of off-field incidents.

Taarabt has also been heavily linked with a move away from West London, with big-spending Paris St Germain mooted as a possible destination.

"I am just thinking whatever will be will be with Adel," Warnock said. "If we get an offer we can't turn down then I can use that money elsewhere, but if he continues how he has done the last two weeks it would be lovely for me.

"I like Adel. He has got to conform a little bit if he wants to stay and he has done the past couple of weeks so you never say never."

Asked what he was referring to, Warnock added: "In all walks of life you should turn up on time, shouldn't you? Whether you are a good player or a bad player, [you turn up on time].

"I don't have many issues with him. He is never going to be a trainer like Jamie Mackie, but Jamie is never going to be able to do things Adel can do, so that doesn't bother me, but you just have to be professional.

"Adel has let himself down a little bit this year but he is not on his own." Soccernet


DAILY MAIL/Laura Williamson
My wife picks my signings... but Swansea striker Graham got away, reveals Warnock


There's only one person prospective QPR signings need to impress in January – Neil Warnock's wife, Sharon.
The QPR boss says he always invites transfer targets round to his home in Richmond, south west London, so his other half can cast her eye over them.
Warnock said: 'I like my missus to see them. Women have got more idea about people.
'She gives them the once over and says: “I like him” or “I don't like him”. Or “Watch him, he didn't look you in the eyes.” She does all that.

Family man: Warnock takes prospective signings to meet his wife, Sharon (right)
'If I don't get the player I say: “That was down to you, love.”
'There have been a couple she's not liked - and she was right about them as well. It's woman's intuition.'
Striker Danny Graham passed Sharon's test last summer but QPR missed out on the 26-year-old as he opted to join Swansea City, Rangers' opponents on Monday.
Warnock said: 'She approved of Danny. She thought he was a nice lad.
'Everything was agreed, but he went to Swansea the next day because we couldn't buy him. It was disappointing but I wished him all the best. He's gone to a good club - he couldn't hang about for us any longer.

So near yet so far: Danny Graham came close to joining QPR
'We wanted so many (new players) and it didn't look like we were going to get any. I've never been so down.
'When you get promoted to the Premier League you should be on a high, but it was a disappointing time for me.
'Then (new majority shareholder) Tony (Fernandes) came in, but we're still playing catch-up really. Hopefully things will go well in January and that's what I should be judged on.'
The QPR manager's approach may seem slightly old-fashioned for a club buoyed by a new owner with money to spend in January, but Warnock insists he will stick to his tried and tested method.

In charge: Majority shareholder Tony Fernandes

'I will still speak to the players at my house,' he said. 'I would rather show them views of Richmond than our training ground! I've got more chance of selling the club that way.
'It’s an exciting time with all the plans for a new stadium, academy and the direction the board are taking and the commitment to the club. To come on board when we are just establishing ourselves is a great opportunity.
'The lure of London is also significant. At the moment it’s an exciting place to be.' Daily Mail


- The 2011 Bernie Ecclestone Christmas Card (and Previous Years' Cards)

- QPR Official Supporters Club (OSC) AGM & EGM Scheduled


Some Recent Christmas Greetings to QPR Fans From Loftus Road

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