Thursday, November 24, 2005
QPR EVENTS - AUGUST
QPR 1st Latest Actions Taken By Trust Steering Grouphttp://www.qpr1st.co.uk/main/latestnews.aspQPR 1st Letter to Directorshttp://www.qpr1st.co.uk/documents/directorsletter.docCompany/share informationhttp://www.qpr1st.co.uk/documents/companytree.doc
Paladini Speaks
QPR OFFICIAL SITEBRIGHT FUTUREGianni Paladini has promised a bright future for Queens Park Rangers following the changes at Boardroom level last week.Bill Power is no longer Chairman and Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive was made redundant following a Board meeting at Loftus Road.But the Director insists that the decisions taken were made with only the Club's interest at heart and he has played down suggestions of turmoil at the highest level."I am still friends with Bill. We go out for lunch and we talk on the phone every day. I have no problem with Bill."This is not about individuals or personalities, it is about the future of this great Club and all of us - Bill included -want nothing more than to see QPR continue to grow and improve."Paladini is also sympathetic with supporters who may have been worried about the situation.He appreciates that the supporters are concerned and has stressed that their feelings are at the forefront of his mind."The supporters are what makes this Club great and from the moment I arrived at Loftus Road I have been overwhelmed by their passion and devotion."All supporters will worry when they see change and I can understand that. But I believe that change was necessary for long term stability."The investors and directors are ambitious - I am ambitious - but we are not turning things upside down. We are going to make sensible steady progress and take Rangers back to where we belong - the Premiership."Paladini also believes that the root of stability lies with the manager and that is why he hopes to sit down with Ian Holloway this week to discuss a new contract."Ollie is responsible for so much that has happened here during the past few years. Our successes on the pitch are down to him and he should be rewarded accordingly."http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~706682,00.html
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Match Reports & reports on Holloway's Comments
Times -Eccentric Holloway torn by domestic disharmony at QPRBy Tom DartQueens Park Rangers 0 Sheffield Wednesday 0EVEN by Ian Holloway’s unmatched standards it was an extraordinary post-match press conference. The Queens Park Rangers manager launched an impassioned defence of his club and their two feuding directors after last night’s dull goalless draw against Sheffield Wednesday.Bill Power, the chairman, was removed from his post, and Mark Devlin, the chief executive, was sacked after Gianni Paladini, a director, ousted Power at a board meeting on Wednesday with the help of Carlos Dunga, the former Brazil captain, who flew in from Japan to vote.Holloway said that the uncertainty was affecting his players and used the analogy of a dysfunctional family. Given that a director is alleged to have been involved in the threatening of Paladini at gunpoint before the previous home game, dysfunctional may be an understatement.“Mum and dad are splitting up, nobody likes that as kids, do they? I feel like a nanny, I’ve got to calm down the kids,” Holloway said. “I can’t stand the last couple of weeks, it’s all politics. I don’t do politics, I’m not Tony Blair. I’m proud that this is worth fighting for, we’ve come a damn long way. I love mum, I love dad, and if one ends up with [the club] I’ll go and visit the other. I’ll stay overnight. They both put the money in, they both deserve this club.“When my Mum and Dad had a row there was Mum’s side, there was Dad’s side and the truth was somewhere in the middle. That’s the same here.”There are suggestions that Holloway may be destabilised by the uncertainty. John Gregory, the former Aston Villa manager, who knows Paladini, was present last night. “I’ve got to consider my position all the time, haven’t I? I’m a blimmin’ football manager,” Holloway said.Power intends to challenge his removal on the basis that Dunga, although a director, was ineligible to vote. Paladini and Power were present yesterday, visited the home dressing-room and appeared on friendly terms.Holloway went on to compare the situation, bizarrely, to Men In Black. No need to use the Will Smith character’s memory-eraser on those who saw this forgettable game. QPR, injury-hit like their opponents, missed the chance to go top of the Coca-Cola Championship even though Wednesday were reduced to ten men for the final 15 minutes when John Halls was sent off for a second bookable offence.on. http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,435-1752939,00.html
Guardian -QPR 0 - 0 Sheffield WednesdayChampionship: QPR overcame their boardroom strife to claim a point at hope to Sheffield Wednesday.Rangers raise a point despite boardroom chaos Arindam Rej at Loftus RoadSaturday August 27, 2005The GuardianTrouble is mounting at QPR. A boardroom power struggle has unsettled the club to such an extent that this result was peripheral for their fans. The sooner they find out who their next chairman is, the better.Not that focusing on this point would have cheered them up. They failed to overcome a Wednesday side who picked up three injuries in 51 minutes and were reduced to 10 men for the final 15.Bill Power is expected to mount a legal challenge after his removal as chairman, during a board meeting this week in which the chief executive Mark Devlin was also sacked. Rangers' director Gianni Paladini has taken control, with Gualtiero Trucco as the interim chairman.Background worries are not unusual but this month the events have been scarcely believable. Paladini, whose long-held ambition is to run a football club, had his resignation demanded when he was threatened with a gun before the game with Sheffield United.The club was further startled by this week's news. Power and Paladini had worked together to bring down the previous regime 14 months ago but relations have deteriorated to such an extent that Power, despite remaining a director, has lost his job. More bizarrely Power still claims he is chairman.Amid the chaos there was a match taking place last night and the first half was encouraging for Rangers. They created the best chances, with Gareth Ainsworth and Kevin Gallen often involved. Ainsworth created the first by forcing his way through, cutting inside and setting up Gallen who curled over a shot from the edge of the area.Tommy Doherty gave Gallen another opportunity but the striker took a second touch rather than strike it first time and David Lucas was able to charge and snuff out the danger. Ainsworth then came to the fore again with a long-range volley from Gallen's cross that Lucas palmed past a post. Paul Furlong was also close after more good work from Ainsworth but he nodded over.Wednesday were offering little and their manager Paul Sturrock was forced into two injury-induced substitutions as Lee Peacock and Glenn Whelan succumbed. Then Drissa Diallo became the third casualty and all the replacements were used.Furlong's deflected free-kick was the first time that the reorganised Wednesday were tested but it was a rare attack. Wednesday looked sharp and should have taken the lead when Chris Brunt's cross was steered wide by David Graham.QPR were caught unaware by Adam Proudlock in the 70th minute. He wriggled around Danny Shittu before being thwarted by Simon Royce. Craig Rocastle also had a sniff of goal with a low half-volley that Royce again caught.Wednesday soon abandoned slim hopes of snatching a win, though, as John Hills was booked for a second time for a reckless lunge on Ainsworth.http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,1527,1557594,00.html
Sporting Life HOLLOWAY LAMENTS QPR UNCERTAINTYIan Holloway revealed the boardroom uncertainty at QPR has left him feeling like a nanny in charge of panicking children.After his side's 0-0 draw with 10-man Sheffield Wednesday, Holloway was left to reflect on a troubled week that has seen the club announce Bill Power's and Mark Devlin's removal as chairman and chief executive respectively.Director Gianni Paladini appears to have seized effective control of the club - but the confusion increased when Power and Paladini were seen sitting side by side in the directors box.Holloway also said Power and Paladini had walked into the dressing room "arm in arm" before the match began."I feel a bit like the nanny who is trying to calm down the kids," said Holloway, who went on to compare Power and Paladini to quarrelling parents."It looks like mum and dad are splitting up and nobody likes that. I hope they get back together."They are the two people who should give me stability, but they are bickering away like they want a divorce - and I'm not going to be their lawyer."But I like them both. They showed commitment to QPR when nobody else wanted to - and they both deserve this club."Former Aston Villa manager John Gregory - a Rangers player in the early 1980s - was in the directors' box and Holloway's position may come under pressure.The club also announced that Paladini's fellow Italian Gualtiero Trucco - part of the Monaco-based groups of investors who put money into QPR last summer - has been installed as interim chairman."Whoever picks up this baton has to be able to carry it forward," Holloway continued."If not, they shouldn't pick it up. If they can't take it forward, I'll question my position."If they question my position, because change sometimes involves that, what can I do about it? It's not in my control."Discussing the game, Holloway believed his side had become downhearted too easily towards the end of the match.He added: "Some players showed disappointment before the fat lady had picked up her mic and started to sing."Show disappointment in the dressing room. It takes only a second to score a goal."Wednesday manager Paul Sturrock was left shaking his head after his injury-hit squad suffered four more losses.John Hills was sent off for a second bookable offence and will be suspended, while Glenn Whelan, Lee Peacock and Drissa Diallo were added to an already lengthy injury list.Sturrock said: "There's a Scottish character (Fraser) in [the TV comedy] Dad's Army who always says 'we're doomed' and that's how I feel at the moment."We've no rhythm because injuries mean I can't get the players on the training ground - but I'm proud of their performance tonight."We worked hard on the shape in training, and that benefited us."But I was disappointed with Hills. His sending-off was a bit of a zany moment."http://www.sportinglife.com/football/nationwide1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/05/08/26/SOCCER_QPR_2nd_Nightlead.html&TEAMHD=nationwide1
QPR Power Struggle Goes on - Sporting Life
Sporting Life - QPR POWER STRUGGLE GOES ONBill Power is expected to mount a legal challenge to his removal as QPR chairman.Director Gianni Paladini has taken control of the west London club with fellow Italian Gualtiero Trucco appointed interim chairman following a board meeting at which Power was ousted and chief executive Mark Devlin sacked.Former agent Paladini is backed by a Monaco-based groups of investors who bought shares in the club last year.Carlos Dunga, who captained Brazil to their 1994 World Cup victory, is a representative of one of the groups.Power, who remains a director, had been in charge for 14 months after forming an alliance with Paladini to remove the previous administration.http://www.sportinglife.com/football/nationwide1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/05/08/26/manual_133511.html
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"Ousted" Chairman, Bill Power's Posting/Statement
Bill Powers StatementThis is the only posting I will be making and, I will not be responding to any questions. Apologies if that is frustrating, but I am sure you will understand. A lot of things are being said and posted which are wildly off the mark. As in every board meeting different opinions were expressed, totally normal. What should be noted is that everybody at that meeting believed they had the interests of QPR in mind. No I didnt agree with everything, but to put things into perspective there was 100% agreement about most of the topics discussed. Obviously I could not comment on the decisions that were made after Kevin and I had to leave the meeting for family reasons and it continued without us. We are all talking amicably as we must above all else make sure that the club continues its revival. Everyone of us want only success for the club. Now what we all ask is that you do your part. When Ollie talks about the effect you have on the team it cannot be underestimated. We all know how unique our ground is when we really get behind the boys. We all remember the feeling around the place the night we beat Oldham in the play-off semi-final and that atmosphere is what we ask you to give us again tonight. Whoever plays tonight give them your all and you can be sure they will give you the same back. Finally I would like to thank everyone who has been kind enough to call me, text me and mail me. I have been overwhelmed by the many kind words that I have received and find myself truly humbled. Please feel free to post this to the Org, Rivals and Net. COME ON YOU R's _________________QPR & Ireland(taken from .org which in turn was taken from Official Sitehttp://www.qpr.org/forum/viewtopic.php?topic_view=threads&p=103329&t=32358
QPR 1st Statement re QPR Developments
STATEMENT FROM QPR 1st: 26/08/2005For immediate releaseQPR 1st response to recent QPR FC events QPR1st, the Supporters Trust for Queens Park Rangers FC, is saddened at the recent events relating to the board of QPR Holdings Ltd, the holding company of the club. The recent incidents behind the scenes, which have involved the police and now yesterday's changes in the boardroom are emblematic of the manner in which we prefer QPR's business not to be conducted, i.e., in an opaque, uncertain, possibly illegal manner in which we, the supporters, are left in the dark, puzzled, and embarrassed. QPR 1st Supporters Trust would like to reassure all Trust members and other stakeholders in QPR that it is in consultation with some of the involved parties and with lawyers with an eye to playing whatever role we can in the resolution of these developments in the best interests of QPR Football Club. We urge the other Supporters' Groups at QPR to join us in seeking a meeting with all board members, the various parties involved and other key persons who are interested in open lines of communication with the QPR family, which, as we all are aware, is truly global in its reach. Transparency is the fundamental hallmark of QPR 1st Supporters Trust. At this difficult time in our club's history, we pledge to members and non-members alike that we will continually seek out opportunities to engage key personnel at the club with the ultimate goal of letting the supporters make up their own minds. We urge supporters not to divide over this situation and to unite to support the club in what has been a very difficult time last few weeks in the history of our truly wonderful football club. Statement Ends(Taken from .org site)http://www.qpr.org/forum/viewtopic.php?topic_view=threads&p=103305&t=32349
Fan Site Reactions to Paladini over Power
QPRNet.com - Ron Norris - Rangers Lurch Towards Boardroom Chaos Once Againhttp://www.qprnet.com/features/ron/boardroom_chaos.shtmlQPR Rivals - Clive Whittingham - Chaos Behind the Sceneshttp://queensparkrangers.rivals.net/default.asp?sid=925&p=2&stid=8390008
Gianni's Coup at Loftus Road - News Report
Updated:Local Gazette- GLOVES OFF AT RANGERS By David McIntyreUncertainty reigns at QPR after Italian director Gianni Paladini appeared to claim victory in the battle for control of the club. Paladini, backed by Monaco-based groups that bought shares in Rangers last year, moved to oust chairman Bill Power at a board meeting on Wednesday night. Power – outnumbered in terms of shares owned – was voted out and chief executive Mark Devlin told he was being fired. Another director and ally of Power, Kevin McGrath, is said to be ready to quit. But there are doubts over the legality of Paladini’s move, which is likely to be challenged through the courts. There is also uncertainty about how Paladini and the Monaco connection plan to plug a growing financial black hole QPR face. Power had planned to invest further and increase his shareholding, while there have been claims that Paladini and friends have no plans or ability to inject more cash and may sell players. But this has not been confirmed. Last night insiders at the club were also expressing fears over the future of the Loftus Road ground itself. The future of Ian Holloway does look secure though. His relationship with Paladini was strained at first and Argentine coach Ramon Diaz was lined up to replace the manager last year. But Holloway and Paladini have since become close. Paladini was unavailable as the Gazette went to press but was said to be on his way to the Rs’ Harlington training ground to tell the players he was now in full control. Rangers were also preparing a statement to clarify the position.Paladini’s master stroke was to fly in Carlos Dunga from Japan for the board meeting. The former Brazil captain joined the board as a PR-friendly representative of the Monaco investors and little has been heard from him since. But his surprise presence – and vote – smashed the Power camp’s hopes of resolving the struggle for control in their favour. Little did Power know when he posed for pictures with Dunga last year that the World Cup winner would return to help oust him. Directors and staff were reluctant to comment yesterday but morale throughout the club is rock bottom and Rangers president Harold Winton made his concern clear. Winton, who used to be on the board and has invested significant money in the club, said: “I have always been supportive of Gianni. I welcomed him and have backed him until now. “But what appears to have happened could destroy the club. QPR cannot be passed into the hands of people from Monaco. “When clubs like Wimbledon and Stoke have been controlled from a foreign country it has proved disastrous. That cannot be allowed to happen to QPR. It’s extremely worrying.”The Sun - Gianni in Power at QPR -By VIC HOLLYGIANNI PALADINI has seized control of QPR — with former Brazil captain Carlos Dunga’s help.The Italian director was recently alleged to have been threatened by an armed gang at Loftus Road.But yesterday Paladini ousted chairman Bill Power and claimed victory in a bitter struggle for control of the club.Dunga represents a Monaco-based group that owns a stake in Rangers and little had been heard of him since he was made a director last year.But he stunned lifelong fan Power by flying in from Japan and voting with Paladini at a crunch board meeting.Power, hugely popular among fans and club staff, was voted out and chief executive Mark Devlin sacked. Manager Ian Holloway will now be hoping his position is safe.Paladini, a former agent, faces supporter fury.Paul Finney of the QPR Loyal Supporters Association said: “It’s very worrying. There’s fear the future of our club, and especially the ground, is at risk. If Paladini and his people threaten either, every QPR fan will oppose them.”QPR president Harold Winton warned: “This could destroy the club.” http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2005390649,00.html
QPR Official Statement re Chairman Bill Power & CEO, Mark Devlin
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT" The Board of QPR Holdings Ltd has decided that Mr Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive Officer is to be made redundant with immediate effect.Mr Bill Power is no longer Chairman of the Board but remains as a Director.Mr Gualtiero Trucco has been appointed interim Chairman of the Board.Bill Power and Director Kevin McGrath do not recognise the validity of these decisions which were taken at yesterday's Board meeting in their absence. They are currently seeking legal advice with regards to these decisions.http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~704872,00.html
Chairman Bill Power Ousted....CEO, Devlin Fired
BBC - Power is removed as QPR chairman Gianni Paladini has taken control at Loftus RoadQueens Park Rangers chairman Bill Power has been removed and chief executive Mark Devlin sacked.Director Gianni Paladini, backed by Monaco-based groups that bought shares in Rangers last year, moved to oust Power at a board meeting on Wednesday.Power, who was a close ally of the Italian before their relationship turned sour, was voted out and Devlin told he was being fired.But Power and his supporters are likely to challenge the legality of the move.Both Power and the Monaco groups were keen to increase their shareholding.Power's camp were undone by former Brazil captain Carlos Dunga unexpectedly flying in from Japan to vote with Paladini.Dunga represents one of the Monaco groups but little has been heard of him since he was made a director last summer.Wednesday's board meeting was the first the World Cup winner has attended.Power and Paladini joined forces to topple the previous board 14 months ago, but there have been bitter divisions since.Paladini is now in control at Loftus Road and is likely to take over Devlin's duties.A new chairman is expected to be named shortly.http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/4185424.stm
"Paladini ‘threat’ just tip of iceberg at QPR " (Sunday Times)
Sunday Times - August 21, 2005
Paladini ‘threat’ just tip of iceberg at QPRPeter KoenigQUEEN’S PARK RANGERS football club has a tough week ahead. It must continue to deal with fallout from the alleged threats made against director Gianni Paladini two Saturdays ago, while on Wednesday the club’s board is due to discuss its heavy losses and issues of ownership.On August 13, armed police were called to the west London club’s ground after a confrontation between Paladini and a group of men who he said forced him to sign a resignation letter. Last Monday, QPR director David Morris and three other men were charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail and joint possession of a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.QPR’s financial difficulties have resulted in losses of about £35m since 1997. They originated in the 1990s from miscalculations about the value of the club in the wake of surging revenues from television. In 1996, media tycoon Chris Wright bought the club for £10m, merged it with Wasps rugby club and floated it on AIM.But QPR suffered a string of poor seasons, falling from the Premier League to the second division. In April 2001, it went into administration after Wright stopped subsidising its losses.Emerging from administration in May 2002 after borrowing £10m from Bahamas-based ABC Corporation to pay off its creditors, the club continued to generate red ink.The losses have prompted a series of boardroom shake-ups. Last year, directors and executives who nursed QPR through administration departed, leaving director Kevin McGrath to step in as acting chairman.Paladini invested £577,000 in the club and installed his wife, Olga, on the QPR board. Soon after, he helped attract about £1.6m in new money from Italian investors in two Monaco-based consortiums. This spring QPR nominated four new directors to its board, including Morris and Citigroup executive Valentin Ehmer.The men were named as “honorary directors with no voting powers with a view to becoming fully fledged directors in the near future”, a spokeswoman for QPR said.In an e-mail exchange with fans, QPR said its goal for the club five years from now was a return to the Premier League “without any debts and no need to sell players to survive”.Also up for possible discussion is the ownership composition of the club. Currently, one group of shareholders including Paladini and the Monaco-based consortiums hold about 44% of the shares, according to a person close to the club. Another group of shareholders, including McGrath, new QPR chairman Bill Power and Morris, hold about 30%.“The two groups each hold a large-enough stake to block the other,” said the individual.http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2095-1743245,00.html
Londonist Blog on QPR's Week
Londonist Webblog>August 18, 2005QPR Vs The BeanoAs regular readers will know, we at the Londonist love comics. So you can only imagine our excitement when this week's Beano found it's way to the Londonist sports desk featuring none other than the mighty Queens Park Rangers.
Not only are the R's second in Division Two, but this week we find they've been playing Beano Town. Of course, we won't tell you what happened - you'll have to buy it to find that out, although we can reveal that the comic steers well clear of the boardroom brouhaha that has erupted at Loftus Road this week.
In a tale that seems so far-fetched it would be rejected as a storyline in Eastenders, it transpires that prior to QPR's fantastic 2-1 victory over Sheffield United last weekend, director Gianni Paladini (allegedly) had a gun pointed at his head and was forced to sign a note of resignation by a gang of four men which included fellow director David Morris. The four men have since been in court facing blackmail and firearm charges and have been remanded in custody.
Back in the world of football, QPR are the first visitors to the new Ricoh Stadium in Coventry at the weekend. http://www.londonist.com/archives/2005/08/qpr_vs_the_bean.php
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Thursday, August 18, 2005
Holloway - "Players Concern for Paladini"
TEAMTALK -Players concern for PaladiniIan Holloway revealed his players were worried about QPR director Gianni Paladini after some of the playing squad visited the Italian at his home.Four men were charged with an alleged attack on Paladini shortly before Rangers' victory over Sheffield United on Saturday.Eight first-team players - along with boss Holloway and assistant manager Tim Breacker - travelled to see Paladini in the Midlands.Holloway said: "The lads were concerned about him, so I suggested going to see him. They play for him as well as me."We wanted to give the players a rest so we went up and had a meal. He was delighted to see us."My job is keep the players focused, and I felt that going to see Gianni would be the right thing to do." http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,1801_635359,00.htmlHolloway
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re Paladini, Morris & QPR - "QPR Controversy Badly Timed " - Telegraph
Telegraph - QPR controversy badly timed QPR controversy comes at worst possible time Bt Mihir Bose (Filed: 18/08/2005)The alleged threats made to Queens Park Rangers director Gianni Paladini during Saturday's 2-1 win over Sheffield United at Loftus Road could not have come at a worse time for the clubArmed police were called to the ground following an incident which led to QPR director David Morris and three other men being charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail and with joint possession of a firearm.QPR are doing well off the field in their attempt to cut costs. They lost £2.3 million last season, will lose £1 million this season but will break even in 2006-07.The problem is that the club still need money from directors. Morris, a local businessman, paid the £3,500-a-week wages of defender Arthur Gnohere for a spell and also offered to install a new telephone system free of cost at the training ground.Paladini's involvement with QPR goes back to last summer. Paladini, from Naples, has done various jobs in this country including acting as an agent for players including former Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli.Paladini has brought in much-needed investment from two Monaco-based funds: Burnaby paid £450,000 for about 10 per cent of shares in the club, while Wanlock paid just over £1 million for 19.9 per cent.When these investments were being made there was speculation that Ramon Diaz, the former Argentina striker, would come in to replace Ian Holloway as manager. This did not happen.The only high-profile footballer QPR have seen so far has been Dunga, the former Brazil captain, who joined the board amid much fanfare at a Loftus Road press conference. So far he has not attended a single board meeting.Paladini, who has invested £650,000, formally joined the plc board only last month, though his wife, Olga, has been on the board since May 2004. She does not attend meetings.The feeling at QPR was that with Paladini involved, the club might have avoided paying agents' fees. But over the 2004-05 season the club paid £341,000 in agents' fees, more than the last three years in total. This included paying £40,000 to Mel Eves, a former colleague of Paladini, following the £100,000 transfer of Ian Evatt from Chesterfield.Paladini and Morris were once good friends and last season Morris drove Paladini to many of QPR's away matches.In recent weeks there have been many arguments at the club.One concerned an allegation that one of the directors was planning to sell the club and that he had met two Greeks associated with AEK Athens for this purpose. The director concerned denied the allegation vehemently.There was also a row about the way the weight rooms of the training ground at Harlington were being strengthened - fairly trivial but the incident on Saturday has focused the spotlight on these issues.
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Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Injury Update - Rowlands & Doherty out from Coventry Game, but may be back very soon
QPR OFFICIAL SITEBoth Martin Rowlands and Tommy Doherty will definitely miss Rangers' trip to Coventry this weekend.
But the prognosis on both is not as bad as first feared and it is hoped that they will be fit in time for the visit of Sheffield Wednesday the following Friday. ...Meanwhile Doherty has bruising within the knee joint. He has also got a cyst on his knee that has become inflamed and although they are very difficult to predict, the Loftus Road medical team hope to have him back for the Owls game.http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~700853,00.html
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Tuesday, August 16, 2005
QPR Reserves 3 Gillingham 1 - Match Reports
Reserve Match ReportsQPR Official Site - RESERVES WIN.... bright performance earned the reserves a comfortable 3-1 victory against Gillingham in this afternoon's Pontins Holiday Combination fixture at Loftus Road....Rangers Cole, Ukah, Hislop, Kanyuka, Munday (Yelland), Bean, Donnelly, Bailey, Miller (Howell), Baidoo, Townsendunused subs: Thomashttp://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~700469,00.htmlQPRnet.com Match Reporthttp://www.qprnet.com/reserves/0506/reports/gillinghamh.shtmlAlso Reserve Match report on Dave's Official QPR Sitehttp://www.queensparkrangersfc.com/Gillingham Rivals - QPR Reserves 3 Gills Reserves 1By Alan LiptrottDate: 16/8/2005Moses Ashikodi made his debut for Gills in this afternoons Pontins Holidays Combination Division fixture at Loftus Road. .....Gills found themselves a goal in arrears after only 5 minutes when the lively Baidoo latched onto a ball out of defence and seeing Knowles out of his area lobbed the ball over his head from all of 30 yards. Our new loan signing Moses Ashikodi had the ball in the back of the net on 18 minutes but the whistle had already gone for off-side.Moses Ashikodi keeping the ball under controlAshikodi showed us some more tricks from his extensive repertoire when although having a defender on his back and unable to turn towards goal flicked the ball over his shoulder before seeing the ball roll just past the post. Paul Shields was fouled on the edge of the QPR area but Frannie Collin hit the resultant free kick weakly into the wall before the danger was cleared.Justin Thompson stands his groundTrialist Justin Thompson playing at centre-back alongside Leon Johnson was a revelation in the Gills defence. He won just about every aerial duel and made a number of decisive tackles inside the 18 yard box. Wasn't afraid at coming forward either for corners and free kicks around the area.QPR forward Luke Townsend was a constant threat as he weaved his way into the Gills penalty area before shooting for goal but thankfully firing over the bar. Gills were on the back foot for most of the first half and fortunate to be going into the break only one goal down.Gills celebrate Iwan Robers equalizerGills drew level though after 52minutes when Thompson headed the ball back into the QPR penalty area and with Roberts catching the Rangers defence napping lashed the ball past the keeper from around 6 yards out. A minute later Ashikodi hit a scorching free kick 25 yards from goal that the Rangers keeper could only tip over the bar.Collin and Roberts were enjoying a good spell together on the left flank as were Ashikodi and Cornielle on the right. Wallis lined up a free kick 25 yards from goal after Shields had been fouled but his shot was charged down and cleared to safety.Gills defend in numbers in an effort to thwart the RangersRangers bustling forward Luke Townsend was quick to spot Danny Knowles had a regular habit of coming a long way off his line as the Gills woodwork saved his blushes on a number of occasions! Miller though restored Rangers lead after 61 minutes with some nifty footwork inside the Gills penalty before curling a shot into the right hand corner.Portuguese trialist Andrade made a few pacy runs down the right flank before crossing from the byeline, but didn't look quite match fit and may have another chance to show what he can do next week against Brighton reserves. For Danny Knowles it just wasn't his day as Rangers punted a long ball ball down field, Luke Howell headed it back towards goal only for our keeper to race out and see the ball pass him into the net.Seconds later the referee blew the full-time whistle.http://gillingham.rivals.net/default.asp?sid=934&p=2&stid=8389111
# posted by Administrator @ 10:56 PM 0 comments
Stefan Moore on Getting into the tEam
Ben Kosky/Sudbury Times (& Other papers)Stefan eyes Moore goals for RangersStriker Stefan Moore is determined to force his way into QPR's starting line-up after bagging his first goal for the club in Saturday's win over Sheffield United, writes Ben Kosky.Moore, who replaced Tommy Doherty as a first-half substitute, capped an impressive performance by scoring Rangers' second goal - and hopes that can be a springboard to his full debut for the club.But injury problems could well force Ian Holloway's hand in any case, with Moore in line to start on Saturday at Coventry if Doherty and Martin Rowlands fail to recover from knee injuries in time."I've got to make the manager pick me.If we keep winning, it's going to be hard to get a place in the side, but I've just got to do as well as I can when I come on," said the former Aston Villa frontman."I just want to play football, that's the main thing - I'm 22 in September, I'd been at Villa a long time and hadn't played a lot. It didn't really happen for me and it was time to move on, so this is a new start for me and it's nice to get a goal."I haven't really set any targets, but obviously I want to be playing. If I'm not playing, there's got to be reasons for that and I've got to work on those myself."With Doherty and Rowlands both doubtful for the Coventry clash, Holloway is likely to move skipper Kevin Gallen into a midfield role, leaving a vacancy up front alongside Paul Furlong.Dean Sturridge is out until mid-September and another of Rangers' summer signings, Marc Nygaard, is struggling with an ankle problem.Fellow new arrival Ian Evatt was due to return to full training later in the week, but Saturday's game may come too soon for him to make his QPR debut. And, as a Birmingham boy, Moore is looking forward to the chance of playing in front of friends and family as Rangers aim to spoil the opening day celebrations at Coventry's new 32,000 Ricoh Arena.He said: "I'll have a few people there - it'll be easier for them to come to the game and that'll be nice. It's a new stadium and it should be an interesting occasion, but we're confident going into the game."There's big ambitions here, the club want to be back in the Premier League and that's where I want to be too.I was delighted when QPR showed an interest in me and this was the only place I wanted to go."Since I've been here, the coaching staff have all been great, especially the manager - he's a great motivator and the lads want to work for him. Hopefully we can keep going on as we've started and see what happens at the end of the season."....Read all the latest QPR news each Wednesday in the Timesben.kosky@archant.co.ukhttp://www.sudburychronicle.co.uk/content/brent/sudburychronicle/sport/story.aspx?brand=KLBTOnline&category=sportfootball&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=sporthsc&itemid=WeED16%20Aug%202005%2016%3A10%3A35%3A437
# posted by Administrator @ 10:14 PM 0 comments
Holloway on Brown...Bircham on Nygaard
Teamtalk Holloway optimistic over BrownIan Holloway is confident Aaron Brown will repay the faith QPR have shown in him this season.Former Bristol City midfielder Brown, 25, spent most of last season out of action with a broken leg - but Holloway is convinced he will come good.Rangers boss Holloway said: "I've waited a year for this lad to show what he can do."When we played at Wigan last year he looked finished; he had no aerobic base. But he's worked hard all summer and hopefully we can move forward with him."He's got a lovely left foot and he can keep hold of the ball." http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,1801_629898,00.htmlTeamtalk - Bircham praise for Nygaard QPR midfielder Marc Bircham has likened recent signing Marc Nygaard to England striker Peter Crouch. At 6ft 5ins, 28-year-old Nygaard is only two inches shorter than Liverpool player Crouch - and Bircham, 27, believes the pair have similar attributes.Bircham said: "Having seen Nygaard in training, he reminds me a bit of Peter Crouch."He's obviously a threat in the air, but his play on the ground is good as well." More...http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,1801_629457,00.html
# posted by Administrator @ 7:05 PM 0 comments
Richard Langley to Crystal Palace?
Sky SportsCrystal Palace manager Iain Dowie will turn to Cardiff's Richard Langley as he looks to beef up his squad for the Championship season.Jamaican international Langley has been told he can leave Ninian Park just two years after a £200,000 move from QPR.The 25-year-old - who has five caps for his country - has started 66 games for the Welsh club since leaving London, scoring eight goals, and would be tempted by a move back to the capital.Langley was this summer linked with a move back to QPR but Dowie hopes to hijack the move and said: "In terms of new signings we are working on one or two fronts."We are hopeful things will happen sooner rather than later."Former West Ham midfielder Steve Lomas was on trial at Selhurst Park during pre-season but is now on the verge of a move to Burnley. http://skysports.planetfootball.com/list.asp?hlid=299201&lid=4&cpid=10&title=Palace+want+Langley&channel=championship
# posted by Administrator @ 4:49 PM 0 comments
On this day, 30 years ago...
QPR's "Championship" season got under way: 27,000 saw QPR defeat Liverpool 2-0 at Loftus Road on August 16, 1975...Parkes, Clement Webb Mclintock, Gillard, Masson, Hollins, Francis, Thomas, Bowles, Givens, Sub: Leach : This was the 12 that took us so close....(With some assists from Shanks, Tagg, Abbott, Rogers)
# posted by Administrator @ 10:13 AM 0 comments
QPR Director, David Morris remanded in Custody - News Accounts
Guardian - Football club director remanded in custodyA director of QPR appeared in court yesterday charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail after allegedly holding a gun to a fellow director's head.
A director of Queens Park Rangers football club appeared in court yesterday charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail after an alleged incident involving a fellow executive before a match.David Morris appeared before West London magistrates in Hammersmith, after an armed police operation at the team's Loftus Road ground on Saturday.Gianni Paladini, a fellow director, claimed he had been threatened shortly before kick-off in QPR's 2-1 win over Sheffield United.Mr Morris, 49, from Buckinghamshire, Andrew Baker, 39, from Somerset, David Davenport, 37, from Buckinghamshire, and Michael Reynolds, 44, from north London, were charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail and joint possession of a firearm with intent to commit grievous bodily harm. District judge Susan Williams remanded the four in custody after a 45-minute hearing. They are due to appear at the Old Bailey for a preliminary hearing on November 21.Applications for bail on behalf of Mr Davenport and Mr Reynolds were refused.
There were complaints from lawyers for two of the men about press coverage of the case. Jeffrey Lewis, for Mr Morris, said Mr Paladini appeared to be speaking directly to the media while giving statements about the incident. The judge said: "I would sound a note of warning, for everyone's benefit, that if reporting of these proceedings strays beyond proper boundaries, it may cause difficulties with the progress of the case." She ruled that the four men's addresses could not be published.The Metropolitan police said seven other men had been bailed to return, pending further inquiries.QPR has had a troubled recent financial history. In 2001 the club went into financial administration and Chris Wright, its media businessman owner, left the club as a rebuilding exercise got under way. A significant proportion of the club is owned by a group of Monaco-based investors, for whom Mr Paladini is the public face.Mr Paladini, 59, a former football agent who represented the ex-Middlesbrough star Fabrizio Ravanelli, has long held an ambition of owning a football club. His involvement at QPR came after unsuccessful bids to take a controlling stake in Port Vale and Derby County. He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and his other business interests include owning several nightclubs.Yesterday QPR said it was cooperating fully with the police inquiry, but could not comment further while the investigation was continuing.
MIRRROR
BOSS OF QPR ON GUN PLOT CHARGE
'BLACKMAIL' 4 IN COURT
By Adrian Shaw
FOUR men appeared in court yesterday over an alleged plot to blackmail Queens Park Rangers' millionaire owner Gianni Paladini.
Armed police arrested 11 men near the ground in West London on Saturday after Mr Paladini, 59, claimed he had a gun held to his head and was forced to sign a letter of resignation before the team's 2-1 win over Sheffield United.
QPR director David Morris, 49, David Davenport, 37, Michael Reynolds, 44, and Andrew Baker, 39, appeared at West London magistrates court in Hammersmith.
They are charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail and joint possession of a firearm with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
The men were casually dressed for their 45-minute hearing.
Morris wore an open-necked grey shirt, and the other three wore T-shirts.
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District Judge Susan Williams remanded them in custody pending their appearance before the Old Bailey for a preliminary hearing on November 21. Applications for bail on behalf of Davenport and Reynolds were refused.
Shareholder Morris and Davenport are from Buckinghamshire, Reynolds is from North London, and Baker is from Somerset.
Another seven men have been bailed to return on various dates pending further enquiries.
Mr Paladini, a former football agent who also owns a string of nightclubs, lives in London with his English wife, Olga. http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=15861868&method=full&siteid=94762&headline=boss-of-qpr-on-gun-plot-charge--name_page.html
# posted by Administrator @ 1:25 AM 1 comments
Monday, August 15, 2005
QPR Team News ...Injuries
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - INJURY LATEST ....Both Tommy Doherty and Martin Rowlands have gone for scans; Doherty on his left knee and Rowlands on his right knee's Medial ligaments. Both will receive the results on Wednesday and club assistant physio Bobby Bacic admitted a 'rule of thumb' in these instances is to assume the players will be out for around two weeks ....Marc Nygaard will also sit out training until later in the week ... Dean Sturridge is now running sooner than expected and Lee Cook has started cycling as part of his rehabilitation. Ian Evatt is also looking to resume training this week ...http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~699803,00.html
# posted by Administrator @ 2:27 PM 0 comments
"Paladini Incident" Update - including Chairman Bill Power Comments
Updated 6:45 GMT
August 15, 2005 QPR director charged with blackmail threatsBy Times Online and PA News
A director of Queens Park Rangers football club appeared in court today charged with blackmail and threats against another club director.
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David Morris, 49, was among 11 men arrested by armed police near the QPR ground in west London on Saturday, after Gianni Paladini said that a gang held a gun to his head and forced him to sign a resignation letter, minutes before the team’s 2-1 Championship win over Sheffield United.
Four men have been charged over the alleged incident. Mr Morris appeared at West London Magistrates’ Court in Hammersmith today alongside David Davenport, 37, Michael Reynolds, 44, and Andrew Baker, 39, all charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail and joint possession of a firearm with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
District Judge Susan Williams remanded the four in custody pending their appearance before at the Old Bailey for a preliminary hearing on November 21. Applications for bail on behalf of Davenport and Reynolds were refused.
Police have said another seven men have been bailed to return on various dates pending further enquiries.
Armed officers were deployed within the Loftus Road ground following the incident on Saturday afternoon.
The men were casually dressed in their 45-minute appearance. Mr Morris wore a grey, open-necked casual shirt, and the other three men wore T-shirts.
Lawyers for two of the men complained of press coverage of the alleged incident. Jeffrey Lewis, for Mr Morris, said that Mr Paladini appeared to be speaking directly to the press, at the same time as giving statements about the matter.
The judge said: "I would sound a note of warning, for everybody’s benefit, that if reporting of these proceedings strays beyond proper boundaries, it may cause difficulties with the progress of the case."
Later, the judge made a ruling that the men’s addresses were not to be disclosed.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-1736207,00.htmlBBC - Four in court over QPR 'attack'
QPR Official Site - CHAIRMAN: BEWILDERED
QPR Chairman Bill Power has spoken of his bewilderment and distress following an alleged incident at Loftus Road on Saturday afternoon.Four men have now been formally charged and are due to appear at West London Magistrates on Monday afternoon.And Mr Power admits that he is trying to come to terms with the situation."I am completely bewildered by what occurred on Saturday and I would like to assure all supporters that we are trying to ascertain the exact nature of events."Nevertheless there is an ongoing police investigation and we are unable to comment further at the moment.As soon as I can say more I will endeavour to, but in the meantime we are co-operating fully and must allow the police to carry out their duties as effectively as possible."All I hope for now is that we can soon get on with the business of talking about football again and fully enjoy the fantastic start that Ian Holloway and his team have made to this season."
# posted by Administrator @ 2:21 PM 0 comments
Georges Santos Turns 35
Georges Santos Turns 35. Born August 15, 1970, Marseilles, France: ex-Tranmere, WBA, Sheff United, Ipswich and now QPR....http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=10573
# posted by Administrator @ 8:41 AM 0 comments
Paladini "Attack" - Updated Stories
UPDATED: 9:00 am GMT
Scottish Daily RecordGANG OUIZZED OVER MATCH GUN THREATAug 15 2005Shareholder is held in bizarre blackmail plotBy Pete SamsonA QUEENS Park Rangers shareholder has been arrested over a bizarre blackmail plot against the football club's millionaire owner. QPR supremo Gianni Paladini, 59, claims a gang of thugs held a gun to his head and forced him to sign a letter of resignation at the club's Loftus Road ground in London on Saturday.Yesterday, it emerged fellow shareholder Dave Morris was among 11 men arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit blackmail. They were still being quizzed by police. Armed police stormed the ground after Scotland Yard were alerted to the incident.Later, fans spotted Paladini being led from his director's box in tears. His wife Olga is believed to have witnessed the ordeal.Yesterday, Paladini said the armed gang pounced as he went to his office with Morris.He said: 'I was petrified. One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun.'They shouted at me to signa piece of paper resigning from the board. Of course, I signed it - but I have no intention of leaving the club'They tried to push me out of the ground, but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom,shouting for help.'Manager Ian Holloway, the team and most fans were unaware of the incident, despite a delay to the second half of the match against Sheffield United.Yesterday, Holloway said: 'I've been called by the police to give a statement on the situation at the club. 'I'm devastated. It was a surreal day. I've never seen anything like it.' A police spokeswoman confirmed: 'There were no injuries to any person. No weapons were seized and no shots fired.'Former agent Paladini bought a 22 per cent stake for about £650,000 last May.He is the public face of a Monaco consortium who invested £1.7million in the debt-ridden club last yearhttp://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=15857618&method=full&siteid=89488&headline=gang-ouizzed-over-match-gun-threat--name_page.html
Updated: 8:30 am GMT
As posters on the .org & Rivals sites have pointed to the coincidence that one of those charged in the Paladini "attack" has the same name as one of QPR's newest member of our Board of Directors: David Morris . (For more on QPR's newest Board Members, see Boardroom Blues.http://www.boardroomblues.co.uk/4newdirectors.htm)
BBC-Four men in court over QPR attack
Four men are to appear in court in connection with an attack on a Championship football club director. Four men are to appear in court over an attack on a football club director shortly before a Championship match. ...David Davenport and David Morris, both from Buckinghamshire, Michael Reynolds, of north London, and Andrew Baker, of Somerset are due in court on Monday.
All four have been charged with blackmail and firearm offences.A total of eleven men were arrested near the west London football ground on Saturday.A Metropolitan Police spokesman said the other seven men had been bailed to return on various dates pending further inquiries.High profile transfers Mr Paladini was taken to Hammersmith police station after the incident, which he said happened as he made his way to a meeting before his team's 2-1 win over Sheffield United.Mr Paladini, a former football agent who represented ex-Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, bought his stake in the club last May.He is the public face of a Monaco-based group of investors who own a significant proportion of the club.The Italian handed in his football agent's licence last year to pursue his dream of buying into an English football club.After becoming an agent in 1980 he was involved in dozens of high profile transfers over two decades. He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and his business portfolio includes several nightclubs.Mr Davenport, 37, Mr Reynolds, 44, Mr Baker, 39, and Mr Morris, 49, will appear at West London magistrates charged with conspiracy to commit blackmail and joint possession of a firearm with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
Independent - Men helad after QPR Boss is threatened with gun...Matthew Beardolice are questioning 11 men after a director of Queen's Park Rangers football club in west London was ambushed at gunpoint outside the boardroom.Gianni Paladini, 58, an Italian recently installed on the club's board, was attacked minutes before kick-off by a gang of five men as he walked towards his office in the Loftus Road stadium with a fellow director.His assailants burst through double security doors, kicking him, beating him and demanding he resign his position as they held a gun to his head.
Fearing for his life, Mr Paladini signed his own "resignation letter" and broke free from the gang to the nearby boardroom from where he alerted police at about 3pm as his side's home game against Sheffield United was getting underway.
Armed police rushed to the ground where they made some arrests as well as in the nearby Uxbridge and South Africa roads. Mr Paladini was visibly distressed as he watched the second half of the club's 2-1 win and wept as he was escorted into the players' tunnel by two police officers after the game.
As Mr Paladini was recovering from his ordeal, in which he suffered suspected broken ribs, Scotland Yard detectives began to investigate the club's turbulent off-the-field recent history - which has seen an unseemly struggle for control of the once-fashionable west London club - for a possible motive for the attack.
From the heights of the 1970s, when their outstanding side boasted such stars as Gerry Francis and Stan Bowles, QPR sunk three divisions. After financial collapse under former owner Chris Wright, the club staved off closure with a £10m loan accruing £1m in interest per year.
Yesterday supporters were struggling to explain the attack, although some thought it may have been in connection with Mr Paladini's criticism of the club's finances.
The Italian, a former players' agent, bought a reported 22.1 per cent share in QPR for £600,000 in May last year. He openly questioned the £10m loan taken out by the club when it was on the point of folding in 2002. He told a recent fans' forum it was "absolutely imperative" to renegotiate the loan. The money was lent by ABC Corporation, registered in Panama, which has also lent £15m to Derby County. http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/crime/article305935.ece
Guardian 11 held after gun attack on QPR boss Robert Booth Monday August 15, 2005 The Guardian
Eleven men were being held in police custody last night as detectives investigated an armed attack on a football club director moments before kick-off on Saturday.Queen's Park Rangers' majority shareholder, Gianni Paladini, 58, was walking towards his office in the club's west London ground with fellow director David Morris just before a Championship fixture with Sheffield United when he was allegedly ambushed by a gang of armed men who burst from behind double doors. they are understood to have threatened to kill him and demanded he sign a paper agreeing to resign from the board. The former Italian football agent, who is considered by many supporters a stabilising force at the club after years of financial turmoil, says he was kicked and beaten."A bunch of big, heavy black men come out, rush towards me and start kicking and beating me up," he told the News of the World."I was petrified. One of them held my wrists and another pointed a gun. They tried to push me to the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."Mr Paladini signed the paper, but later insisted he has no intention of resigning.As the game kicked off on schedule at 3pm, police were called and armed officers were deployed inside the ground.Arrests were made immediately outside the stadium and in nearby Uxbridge Road. After further arrests at 4.10pm, a total of 11 men were held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit blackmail.QPR's players knew nothing of the drama as they continued their strong start to the Championship season with a 2-1 win.The club's manager, Ian Holloway, said yesterday he was "shocked and horrified" by the alleged attack.The club declined to comment on how armed men might have gained access to the ground.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk_news/story/0,3604,1549255,00.html
Telegraph
Telegraph n gang tell QPR director to resignBy Douglas Roberts(Filed: 15/08/2005)A gang put a gun to the head of a football club director and forced him to sign a note of resignation only minutes before a match on Saturday.Gianni Paladini, 58, a director at Queen's Park Rangers, was allegedly kicked and beaten before being told to resign by a group of men who had burst into the hospitality area of the club's ground.Eleven men were arrested in and around the ground by armed police soon after, on suspicion of committing blackmail and making threats to kill, according to a Metropolitan Police spokesman.Mr Paladini was attacked just before the 3pm kick-off against Sheffield United.After the incident he attempted to watch the second half before being escorted out of the directors' box looking distressed.He told the News of the World that he had been kicked and beaten on a flight of stairs by five people."One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun," he told the newspaper. "They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board."Of course I signed it but I have no intention of leaving the club."They tried to push me out of the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."Mr Paladini, a former football agent, has been a controversial figure at QPR since buying a 22 per cent share for £650,000 in April last year.He had reportedly complained of being shunned by the board and had questioned a £10 million loan, which incurs annual interest payments of £1 milLION http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2005/08/15/nqpr15.xml&sSheet=/news/2005/08/15/ixhome.html
Paladini Threatened - Updated Report
Update:QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT
INCIDENT AT LOFTUS ROAD
Queens Park Rangers Football Club confirms that the Metropolitan Police are investigating an incident at Loftus Road.
A number of arrests were made on Saturday afternoon and the police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
QPR are co-operating fully with the police in the course of their enquiries but while the investigation is ongoing the Club is unable to comment further on the nature of the alleged incident.
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10373~699432,00.htmlThe TimesQPR chairman [sic] has gun held to head in attack at groundBrendan BourneAN armed gang held a gun to the head of a director of Queen’s Park Rangers football club outside the club’s boardroom as the match was about to kick off yesterday afternoon.Gianni Paladini, 58, the Championship club’s majority shareholder, was reportedly kicked, beaten and threatened unless he agreed to resign from the board.Eleven men were later arrested in and around the west London club’s Loftus Road ground on suspicion of conspiracy to commit blackmail. Last night they were being questioned at west London police stations.Paladini, a former Italian international, whose club career included spells at Juventus and Napoli, has been a controversial figure at QPR since buying a reported 22.1% share for £600,000 in May last year.He complained that existing board members shunned him and that his questions into a £10m loan from a Panama based bank, which incurs annual interest payments of £1m, were unwelcome.Last autumn he claimed the club was a fortnight away from bankruptcy and, with the help of football agent Antonio Caliendo, organised a £1.7m investment into the club from two Monaco-based consortiums.Paladini has since increased his stake to a reported 46% and his British-born wife, Olga, is a non-executive director.Paladini told the News of the World that he was with fellow director Dave Morris when five black men burst from his office minutes before kick off against Sheffield United.“One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun,” he said. “They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board. Of course I signed it but I have no intention of leaving the club.“They tried to push me out of the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help.”Armed police rushed to the ground where they made some arrests as well as in the nearby Uxbridge and South Africa Roads.Paladini was visibly distressed as he watched the second half of the club’s 2-1 win and wept as he was escorted into the players tunnel by two police officers after the game. He was taken to Hammersmith police station.Paladini, who has lived in Britain since 1968, had a successful career as a football agent after he finished playing, representing Brazilian stars Emerson and Juninho, and ex-Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli.Steve Midmer from the QPR Loyal Supporters Association said: “He is very popular with fans. We are going places now because of him. It is the other board members who have left that weren’t liked. Paladini has been welcomedhttp://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2087-1734725,00.htmlINDEPENDENT
Police hold 11 for gun threat on QPR chief
By Steve Bloomfield
Published: 14 August 2005
A football club director allegedly had a gun pointed at his head outside the boardroom just moments before a Championship football match kicked off yesterday afternoon.
Armed police were called to Queen's Park Rangers' Loftus Road ground in west London and 11 men were arrested after Gianni Paladini and an unnamed woman were threatened with the weapon.
After threatening to kill them, the men tried to leave the ground without firing any shots. Metropolitan Police firearms officers managed to arrest some of the men inside the ground, while the rest were detained near the stadium.
"Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at the QPR football ground today," a police spokeswoman said.
"At approximately 1500 hours, police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises. No one was injured and no shots were fired."
Mr Paladini bought his stake in QPR back in May 2004 and a large proportion of the club is now owned by a Monaco-based group of investors for whom Mr Paladini is the public face.
He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and has a business portfolio which includes several nightclubs.
Before becoming a director of QPR, Mr Paladini was a football agent who represented a number of high-profile footballers over the past two decades, including the Italian striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, who enjoyed a successful spell in England in the 1990s with Middlesbrough.
QPR won their match against Sheffield United 2-1 to rise to second place in the Coca-Cola Championship.
A football club director allegedly had a gun pointed at his head outside the boardroom just moments before a Championship football match kicked off yesterday afternoon.
Armed police were called to Queen's Park Rangers' Loftus Road ground in west London and 11 men were arrested after Gianni Paladini and an unnamed woman were threatened with the weapon.
After threatening to kill them, the men tried to leave the ground without firing any shots. Metropolitan Police firearms officers managed to arrest some of the men inside the ground, while the rest were detained near the stadium.
"Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at the QPR football ground today," a police spokeswoman said.
"At approximately 1500 hours, police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises. No one was injured and no shots were fired."
Mr Paladini bought his stake in QPR back in May 2004 and a large proportion of the club is now owned by a Monaco-based group of investors for whom Mr Paladini is the public face.
He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and has a business portfolio which includes several nightclubs.
Before becoming a director of QPR, Mr Paladini was a football agent who represented a number of high-profile footballers over the past two decades, including the Italian striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, who enjoyed a successful spell in England in the 1990s with Middlesbrough.
QPR won their match against Sheffield United 2-1 to rise to second place in the Coca-Cola Championship.http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/crime/article305771.eceBBC
QPR director tells of gun ordeal
A football club director has reportedly been forced at gunpoint to sign paperwork resigning from the board.
Armed police were called to Queen's Park Rangers' Loftus Road stadium after Gianni Paladini was attacked.
Eleven men were arrested in or near the west London ground after the incident, which happened near the club's boardroom at about 1500 BST (1400 GMT).
Mr Paladini told the News of the World newspaper he had been "petrified" but would not quit.
One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun Gianni Paladini
The gang had pounced as he had been going to his office with shareholder Dave Morris before the game started, he added.
Mr Paladini told the paper he had been kicked and beaten on a flight of stairs by five people.
"I was petrified. One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun.
"They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board.
"Of course I signed it - but I have no intention of leaving the club.
"They tried to push me out of the ground, but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."
'Threats to kill'
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground.
"Police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises."
Mr Paladini, a former football agent who bought his stake in the club in May 2004, was later taken to Hammersmith Police Station.
He lives in London with his English wife Olga and his business portfolio includes several nightclubs.
QPR won their game against their Championship rivals Sheffield United, 2-1. http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4149692.stm
THE INCIDENT
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Gun Incident vs Paladini at Loftus Road....11 Arrested
Raises some interesting questions...(oh QPR won 2-1)BBC Gun scare at QPR football match
Gun scare at QPR football match
Armed police were called to the ground of football team Queen's Park Rangers after a club director reportedly had a gun put to his head.
Eleven men were arrested in or near the Loftus Road stadium, west London, after director Gianni Paladini was allegedly threatened during Saturday's game.
The incident happened near the club's boardroom at about 1500 BST (1400 GMT).
Officers arrested the men following reports that a group had threatened to kill a man and a woman, police said.
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground.
"Police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises."
Armed officers were deployed and a total of 11 men arrested, she said.
"Some were arrested inside the ground and some were arrested outside. Our enquiries continue."
Mr Paladini was later taken to Hammersmith Police Station.
The former football agent bought his stake in the club in May 2004.
He lives in London with his English wife Olga and his business portfolio includes several nightclubs. QPR won their game against their Championship rivals Sheffield United, 2-1.Sky Sports
Gun drama at QPR
QPR director was allegedly threatened with a gun in the club's boardroom during a 2-1 win against Sheffield United.
Gianni Paladini and a woman were apparently threatened with a weapon, with armed police later arresting 11 men near the ground.
"We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground today," said a spokeswoman.
"At approximately 1500 police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises.
Armed officers had been deployed and a total of 11 men were arrested.
"Some were arrested inside the ground and some were arrested outside. Our inquiries continue," she added.
"No-one was injured and no shots were fired."
http://skysports.planetfootball.com/Article.asp?id=298687SportingLifeQPR DIRECTOR 'THREATENED WITH GUN'
Armed police were called to a Championship match on Saturday after a club director apparently had a gun held to his head.
Eleven men were arrested near Queens Park Rangers' Loftus Road stadium in west London after Gianni Paladini and a woman were reportedly threatened with the weapon near the boardroom during their 2-1 win over Sheffield United.
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said armed officers were deployed within the ground following the incident at 1500 BST and Paladini was taken to Hammersmith police station.
The spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground today.
"At approximately 1500 police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises."
She said armed officers had been deployed and a total of 11 men had been arrested.
"Some were arrested inside the ground and some were arrested outside. Our inquiries continue.
"No-one was injured and no shots were fired."
Paladini, a former football agent who represented ex-Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, bought his stake in the club in May of last year and has become an influential figure there.
A significant proportion of the club is owned by a Monaco-based group of investors for whom Paladini is the public face.
Little is known about the Italian, who handed in his football agent's licence last year to pursue his dream of buying into an English football club.
He became an agent in 1980 and over two decades was involved in dozens of high profile transfers.
He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and has a business portfolio which includes several nightclubs. http://www.sportinglife.com/football/cc_championship/news/story_get.cgi? STORY_NAME=soccer/05/08/13/SOCCER_QPR_Paladini.html&TEAMHD=nationwide1
