Redknapp to hold QPR talks

On November 23, 2012

Rock-bottom QPR are set to open talks with Harry Redknapp after terminating the contract of the former Manchester City and Fulham manager Mark Hughes.

A spokesman for Paul Stretford’s Triple S Sports and Entertainment company said: “Contact has been made between QPR and us as Harry Redknapp’s representatives. Talks will be beginning shortly.”

Former Portsmouth, West Ham and Southampton manager Redknapp has been without a club since leaving Tottenham in the summer.

Hughes, 49, took charge at Loftus Road in January following Neil Warnock’s departure and guided the club away from the relegation zone last term. However, QPR are currently at the foot of the Premier League table after failing to win any of their first 12 games of the season.

The Board of Directors wish to thank Mark for his commitment, hard work and dedication in his ten months in charge.

QPR statement

They have secured only four points so far this term and Hughes’ final game in charge proved to be last weekend’s dire 3-1 home defeat to fellow strugglers Southampton. That result left QPR at 4/5 to be relegated this season and 15/8 to finish at the foot of the Premier League table.

Speculation has linked Hughes with the sack for much of the campaign after he brought a host of big-name players to Loftus Road who have since flattered to deceive.

Club owner Tony Fernandes had issued statements confirming that he would not axe Hughes, but he appears to have finally lost patience with the ex-Manchester United, Chelsea and Barcelona striker.

A statement on the club’s official website confirmed the news, saying: “This decision has been taken after careful consideration by the Board of Directors, following numerous meetings over the last few days.

“The Board of Directors wish to thank Mark for his commitment, hard work and dedication in his ten months in charge.

“The Board will now be working actively to put a new managerial structure in place as soon as possible.”

Mark Bowen and Eddie Niedzwiecki will take charge for the trip to Manchester United on Saturday afternoon. QPR are 14/1 to win the match and 22/1 to grind out a goalless draw at Old Trafford.

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