Post by QPR Report on Oct 26, 2009 7:06:00 GMT
Edit a year...Now that Briatore is "back in the QPR news! And boy were the sportswriters wrong - As if our managers would even have a year in charge!
Surely not! A reminder that the 'controversy' re Briatore and QPR didn't just start with the F1 "issue"
Two years ago in the press after the Dowie axing:
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Daily Mail/NEIL ASHTON and IAN GIBB
Reading 0 QPR 0: Briatore's meddling too much as Dowie is shown the door
- Iain Dowie was sacked after QPR co-owner Flavio Briatore walked on to the training pitch last Friday to tell his manager which players to pick.
- As ambitious Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson emerges as the clear favourite to replace Dowie, Sportsmail can reveal the events which led to the dismissal.
QPR players were left stunned as Briatore marched on to the pitches at Harlington with instructions for the following day's clash with Reading. Dowie refused to carry out the eccentric Italian's orders and was sacked during a row in front of the first-team squad.
Ferguson, son of Manchester United boss Sir Alex, has been targeted by QPR, but he has made it clear he must have control over team selection and the biggest say about which players are brought in.
Briatore has been impressed with the way Ferguson has guided Peterborough out of League Two and into the League One play-off spots by playing an attractive, passing game - much different to the long-ball style often resorted to by Dowie.
Peterborough will demand at least £1million for their manager.
Director of football Barry Fry said: 'QPR had an eye on him last season. The compensation would have to be right because Darren has three years left on his contract.'
QPR caretaker manager Gareth Ainsworth admitted Briatore had influenced selection for the Reading trip, which finished goalless.
One such directive was almost certainly the deployment of midfielder Mikele Leigertwood at right back to nullify Reading wide man Stephen Hunt, who has been destroying teams at the Madejski.
Briatore's fingerprints were also all over the selection of striker Samuel Di Carmine, on loan from Fiorentina, in place of Dexter Blackstock. That was probably the last straw for Dowie and QPR looked sharper when Ainsworth sent on Blackstock for the Italian.
- QPR midfielder Gavin Mahon said: 'The first inkling I got the boss was going was at training on Friday. Flavio called a meeting 20 minutes later and said: "I want everyone to stick together".
- 'Once Flavio told us, we all went to see Iain to wish him all the best.' Mail
Telegraph/David Edbrooke - QPR expectation 'has gone through the roof', says Gavin Mahon
The next manager of Queens Park Rangers could be given less than a year to secure Premier League football, according to midfielder Gavin Mahon.
- Flavio Briatore, the QPR co-owner and chief of the Renault Formula One team, is used to the jet-set lifestyle, but the Italian's undiluted expectations have turned the Loftus Road manager's chair into an ejection seat.
- After Iain Dowie became the third QPR manager in 13 months to enter the departure lounge, the west London club were left to navigate their way through this testing fixture against Reading with a novice at the controls.
- The signore in temporary charge on the sidelines, Gareth Ainsworth, ensured that the team became the first to take points off Reading at the Madejski Stadium this season thanks to stout defending.
- Yet the chances of Ainsworth turning his caretaker role into a permanent position are as slim as the supermodels on the Milan catwalk. The veteran midfielder is QPR's longest-serving player, but he has none of the star quality associated with the front-runners for the job, namely Terry Venables, former Chelsea manager Gianluca Vialli and ex-Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini.
- Irrespective of who becomes the next QPR manager, they are likely to come under untold pressure from the start. Giving a unique insight into the time frame the next incumbent will probably be working to, Mahon said: "Since the new owners have come in the expectation has gone through the roof.
- "They want success. I know Flavio said he's got a two or three-year plan, but I know he wants it [Premier League football] sooner than that because he's an ambitious man."
- Former England manager Venables would be a popular choice with supporters, having played for QPR from 1969-74 before leading them into the top-flight when manager in the Eighties. However, Briatore's demand for instant results could diminish El Tel's interest.
- The Italian multi-millionaire is used to success, having led Renault to two F1 world championships – four including the two titles won by Benetton in the Nineties – and Dowie's record of eight wins, three draws and just four losses wasn't enough to prevent his sacking.
- Talking to Steve Coppell's players, you get the feeling expectations are managed better at Reading. Midfielder Liam Rosenior said: "The likes of even AC Milan, Juventus, Real Madrid don't win every game at home and we shouldn't expect to." Telegraph
Mirror/Rory Smith - Rangers steal point from rampant Royals
Caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth admits Flavio Briatore likes to have his say in team selection - and judging from this performance, maybe he's not doing a bad job.
The Italian has come under fire from fans after he deposed former boss Iain Dowie for not picking the team he wanted. The pair clashed over Dowie's refusal to play young Italian striker Samuel Di Carmine but there was only ever going to be one winner.
Dowie departed, Di Carmine started and Briatore's - or rather Ainsworth's - managerial career got off to a flyer with an impressive point against title-chasing Reading.
Ainsworth said: "He's put a lot of money into the club and he likes to look after his investment.
"There are discussions about certain players, not just with him but with a number of people at the club.
"It's normal, but I'm the boss and I have the final input about who goes out there and plays, and we'd never discuss strategy. I'm not going to say I'd love the job long term, but I'm looking forward to the game against Birmingham, whether I'm in charge or not, just as long as I'm at QPR."
After becoming the first manager to stop Reading scoring at the Madejski this season - prior to this dour clash they had netted 27 in just six outings - it seems certain Ainsworth will be in charge on Tuesday.
But Steve Coppell warned the rookie that he should not have to put up with having to pick his team by committee.
He said: "If I didn't choose who played, what would I do?
"I wouldn't tolerate an owner wanting to interfere. They have a right to say what they think of certain players, but I manage."
If that's what Briatore does and it turns out like this, there may be some mileage in the idea. QPR were woefully short on flair, but their cautious 4-5-1 blunted Coppell's side.
They barely mustered a clearcut chance in a tight first half, despite Jimmy Kebe lashing into the side-netting and Noel Hunt seeing Radek Cerny clutch desperately at his goalbound header.
And the visitors even found time to threaten on the counter, Di Carmine forcing a fine save from Marcus Hahnemann after a well-worked move orchestrated by the impish Dani Parejo.
And QPR grew in confidence as the game wore on.
The disappointing Akos Buzsaky stung Hahnemann's palms with a ferocious drive and Parejo should have done better when he was picked out by sub Dexter Blackstock.
Reading went close through Andre Bikey's header but could not find a way through, losing valuable ground to Wolves and Birmingham in the promotion race.
It was a result that made a strong case for Ainsworth to be given the reins long-term and take QPR forward - but if Briatore doesn't fancy that, he could always give himself a go.
HOW THEY RATED...MAN OF THE MATCH 8 DAMION STEWART
Imposing centre back was a rock at the back as QPR scrapped for every ball
Referee: C Foy 7 Mirror
Nigel Brown/Sport.co - Vine: Dowie sacking came out of the blue
- QPR striker Rowan Vine admitted the sacking of boss Iain Dowie came as a bolt from the blue when the news was delivered on Friday. Vine, who is recovering from a broken leg picked up in training in March, said none of the players expected the news and were shocked when they found out Dowie would be leaving after just 15 games in charge. "Everyone was surprised," he said. "The owners and the chairman came in and delivered the news to us at training. It was a big shock.
- "There have been various rumours about managers and players ever since I arrived at the club.
- "We don't take much notice of the papers but as far as we were concerned it came out of the blue.
- "I certainly didn't see it coming but we've just got to get on with it."
- Gareth Ainsworth has been placed in temporary charge and picked up a credible 0-0 draw away to Reading on Saturday, but speculation is mounting as to who will be next in the hot seat at Loftus Road.
- Names from former boss Terry Venebles, Millwall's Kenny Jackett and Roberto Mancini have all been linked, but there is only one man for the job as far as Vine is concerned.
- "I have heard a few rumours about Zinedine Zidane - certainly in the summer," Vine admitted. "I'd love to see him walk through the door." Sport
The Times/Kaveh Solhekol
Flavio Briatore wants to give Gareth Ainsworth his chance at QPR
- Flavio Briatore is trying to convince his business partners at Queens Park Rangers that Gareth Ainsworth should become the club’s manager until the end of the season. Ainsworth became the caretaker manager when Iain Dowie left Loftus Road on Friday and the 35-year-old player-coach was in charge for QPR’s goalless draw away to Reading on Saturday.
- “We have everything,” Briatore said. “We have the players and we have the coach. There was no argument with Iain Dowie, it was just a decision of the board because we were not happy, it’s as simple as that.”
- The former Crystal Palace manager effectively resigned when he refused to allow Briatore to pick the team for the match at the Madejski Stadium. The Italian co-owns the club with Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal and was frustrated that Dowie would not pick players such as Samuel Di Carmine and Daniel Parejo, who are there on loan.
- Dowie, who had little say over the club’s transfer policy, lost his job when he refused to drop Dexter Blackstock, the club’s leading goalscorer, and start with Di Carmine and Parejo in attack. Both players were in Ainsworth’s starting XI on Saturday.
- “There are lots of talks and discussions about players with various people at the club and of course that includes Flavio Briatore,” Ainsworth said. “He’s the chief investor and he loves taking an active part in how his investment is going.”
- Ainsworth will be in charge for QPR’s home match against Birmingham City tomorrow while his employers decide whether to keep faith with him until the end of the season. Terry Venables, Darren Ferguson, Kenny Jackett and Italian managers such as Roberto Mancini and Roberto Donadoni have been linked with the post... . The Times
Commentary - Martin Sammuel/The Times...You cannot be serious
It is an open secret that Flavio Briatore, the joint owner of Queens Park Rangers, intends to have a say in team selection. This makes the speculation on the identity of Iain Dowie’s successor meaningless. Roberto Mancini and Terry Venables have been mentioned, but no serious football man would take the job in those circumstances." The Times
BBC - Dowie's exit was a shock - Mahon
Queens Park Rangers midfielder Gavin Mahon has admitted he was surprised by boss Iain Dowie's sacking after a training session on Friday morning.
Mahon told BBC London 94.9: "Just after training (QPR co-owner) Flavio Briatore said he wanted a meeting with everyone and said that Iain's leaving.
"It was strange because the gaffer had been taking training.
"Twenty minutes later we were told by the chairman to go upstairs and have a meeting and that's where we found out."
Mahon added: "I was a little bit shocked, but I've had all sorts of things in my career.
"On a personal note I got on really well with Iain. The coaching was top drawer, well organised, everyone was fit and at times we let him down on the pitch with our performances.
"His record's decent, you can't fault it. We've got a decent cup game coming up (Manchester United in the Carling Cup fourth Round) and are in a decent position in the league.
"Everyone knows how hard this league is. I think this club has moved on a lot from last year." BBC
GUARDIAN/Mikey Stafford - Briatore makes his point as QPR draw solace at Reading- Steve Coppell welcomed Iain Dowie and his QPR team to the Madejski Stadium in his programme notes, but it was instead the caretaker manager Gareth Ainsworth he pitted his wits against.
- The veteran midfielder's managerial debut was impressive and his resolute QPR side were the first this season to leave the Madejski with a point as they held the free-scoring Reading in a hectic encounter bereft of clear goal-scoring chances.
- Speculation is rife over who will take over on a permanent basis at the Championship's wealthiest club, with Terry Venables, Roberto Mancini, Gianluca Vialli and Sam Allardyce all thought to be in the frame. On Saturday evening, with the young Italian striker Samuel Di Carmine preferred to top scorer Dexter Blackstock, it would appear that whoever does take over may have to respect the opinion of Flavio Briatore, the Renault formula one team owner and chairman of QPR. The Italian was conspicuous in the director's box during the game, and Ainsworth admitted that Briatore had also spent some time in the dressing room beforehand.
- "I would say 80% of the games he comes into the dressing room," said the former Wimbledon midfielder. "Tonight he came in for a general chat when we had just arrived at the ground."
- The 35-year-old maintained that Briatore had no input on strategy and the final team was his to name, but he did confess that the chairman "likes his input" and "says what he sees". "There are discussions about the team and discussions about players. Flavio has put a lot of money in the club and wants to know how his investments are going. Already we have made a point that we are going to be meeting regularly, not just with Flavio but with the other people who have put their money in, but I have the final input on who goes out there. He doesn't discuss the strategies but he is a winner and he loves to be involved in sport."
- Dowie may have been dismissed because of his preference for Blackstock over Di Carmine, but on Saturday it was the QPR defence that dominated proceedings. Mikele Leigertwood in particular did a fantastic job of marshalling Stephen Hunt, Reading's provider-in-chief, and despite the tireless running of Hunt's brother Noel and Kevin Doyle up front, the previously free-scoring Royals failed to create any solid chances from open play. The substitute Kalifa Cissé went closest six minutes from the end when he met Stephen Hunt's corner with a powerful header, only to see Radek Cerny dive brilliantly to his left and divert the ball away from the top corner and around the post.
- While he professed to not getting involved in the QPR "hoo-hah" before the game, as one of the most stable and autonomous managers in English football it was interesting to hear Coppell's take on Dowie's departure. "Picking a football team is not a committee decision," he said. "If I didn't pick the team what would I do?"
- Man of the match: Mikele Leigertwood - Guardian
The Sun/Paul Jiggins - Reading 0 QPR 0By PAUL JIGGINS -
IAIN DOWIE seemed to know he was a dead man walking when he took training at QPR for the final time on Friday.
- His players could tell their manager had something on his mind as he was quieter than usual. Even a bit distant maybe.
- But they had no idea of the drama that would unfold at the end of the session at the Hoops’ Harlington training ground.
- After announcing HIS team for the trip to the Madejski and giving the side their final instructions, Dowie was promptly sacked by the club’s co-owner and chairman Flavio Briatore after less than six months in the job.
- Midfielder Gavin Mahon revealed: “The first inkling I got the gaffer was going was at training on Friday when Gianni Paladini came up to me and said ‘I think he’s going’. I said ‘But he’s just taken training’.
- "Then Flavio called a meeting 20 minutes later and said ‘Yeah, the coach is no longer here. But I want everyone to stick together. I don’t want to see any down faces around the place because we’ve got an important game at Reading’.
- “I was stunned a little bit. But you could tell there was something on the gaffer’s mind or that he was feeling a bit under pressure. Once Flavio told us, we all went to see him to wish him all the best.”
- SunSport told on Saturday how Dowie was axed because he showed he could no longer stand being told what players to pick by Briatore.
- And this was seemingly backed up by Rangers’ starting XI against the Royals.
- Mahon admitted: “The gaffer had picked a side before he left and . . . er, it was sort of the same as the one that played.
- “There were a couple of changes made but I can’t mention names.
- “The lads who were told on Friday they were playing and then told before the game they were not, took it really well.”
- Briatore went into the Rangers dressing room to congratulate caretaker-boss Gareth Ainsworth and his players on becoming the first visiting side to leave the Madejski with a point this term.
- Mahon added: “I spoke to Gaz after the news was announced on Friday and he said he didn’t know whether to laugh or cry because he’s been thrown straight in at the deep end.
- “But he’s experienced. He’s gone through a lot of things in his career. I think he’ll do really well.”
- The QPR caretaker had referee Chris Foy and keeper Radek Cerny to thank for the point.
- First, Foy failed to spot Mahon’s blatant handball in the box. Then Cerny made a fabulous late save to keep out Kalifa Cisse’s header.
- Royals boss Steve Coppell said: “Ainsworth would be happy, his players played for him.
- “There was determination and steel from their back four and midfield four. They didn’t leave too much daylight.
- “They were not far from the ideal side Iain Dowie would have picked.”
SUN STAR MAN - RADEK CERNY (QPR). Keeper pulled out all the stops. The Sun
The Mirror. Alex Varney - MAHON: FLAV DID PICK THE QPR SIDE
- Gavin Mahon admits Rangers team selection was altered afterthedismissal of Iain Dowie on Friday.
- Dowie had named the starting XI before he was sacked following a row with co-owner Flavio Briatore over the line-up.
- Gareth Ainsworthwasput in temporary charge - although it certainly looked as if Briatore had the final say as fellow Italian Samuel Di Carmine was drafted in aheadofDexter Blackstock.
- "He (Dowie) had picked a sidebefore he left," revealed Mahon. "It was sort of the same as the one that played - but one or two changes were made.
- "That's football - all those ladswhoweretoldonFriday they were playing and then told before the game they were not, took it really well.
- "There were only a couple of changes made, but I can't mention names."
- Mahon was shocked to see the back of Dowie - who had guidedRangerstothe fourth roundoftheCarlingCupand left theWest London side ninthinthetable-butwants the managerial situation sorted quickly.
He said: "I was stunned a little bit. His training was very good. At times the players let him down on the pitch. But we're still in a decent league position and we'vegotManUawayinthe Carling Cup."
Despite their off field troubles Rangers became the first side to take points off Reading at the Madejski Stadium this season.
- Whether he picked the side or not caretaker boss Ainsworth seemed to have his side giving him their all.
- The hosts had plundered 27goals athome before this clashbutwerekeptquietby a defence expertly marshalled by Damion Stewart.
Reading remain third although they have slipped to six points behind leaders Birmingham.
Royals defender Liam Rosenior said: "With the formweare in it's definitely two points dropped. We created more than enough chances to score.: Mirror
Surely not! A reminder that the 'controversy' re Briatore and QPR didn't just start with the F1 "issue"
Two years ago in the press after the Dowie axing:
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Daily Mail/NEIL ASHTON and IAN GIBB
Reading 0 QPR 0: Briatore's meddling too much as Dowie is shown the door
- Iain Dowie was sacked after QPR co-owner Flavio Briatore walked on to the training pitch last Friday to tell his manager which players to pick.
- As ambitious Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson emerges as the clear favourite to replace Dowie, Sportsmail can reveal the events which led to the dismissal.
QPR players were left stunned as Briatore marched on to the pitches at Harlington with instructions for the following day's clash with Reading. Dowie refused to carry out the eccentric Italian's orders and was sacked during a row in front of the first-team squad.
Ferguson, son of Manchester United boss Sir Alex, has been targeted by QPR, but he has made it clear he must have control over team selection and the biggest say about which players are brought in.
Briatore has been impressed with the way Ferguson has guided Peterborough out of League Two and into the League One play-off spots by playing an attractive, passing game - much different to the long-ball style often resorted to by Dowie.
Peterborough will demand at least £1million for their manager.
Director of football Barry Fry said: 'QPR had an eye on him last season. The compensation would have to be right because Darren has three years left on his contract.'
QPR caretaker manager Gareth Ainsworth admitted Briatore had influenced selection for the Reading trip, which finished goalless.
One such directive was almost certainly the deployment of midfielder Mikele Leigertwood at right back to nullify Reading wide man Stephen Hunt, who has been destroying teams at the Madejski.
Briatore's fingerprints were also all over the selection of striker Samuel Di Carmine, on loan from Fiorentina, in place of Dexter Blackstock. That was probably the last straw for Dowie and QPR looked sharper when Ainsworth sent on Blackstock for the Italian.
- QPR midfielder Gavin Mahon said: 'The first inkling I got the boss was going was at training on Friday. Flavio called a meeting 20 minutes later and said: "I want everyone to stick together".
- 'Once Flavio told us, we all went to see Iain to wish him all the best.' Mail
Telegraph/David Edbrooke - QPR expectation 'has gone through the roof', says Gavin Mahon
The next manager of Queens Park Rangers could be given less than a year to secure Premier League football, according to midfielder Gavin Mahon.
- Flavio Briatore, the QPR co-owner and chief of the Renault Formula One team, is used to the jet-set lifestyle, but the Italian's undiluted expectations have turned the Loftus Road manager's chair into an ejection seat.
- After Iain Dowie became the third QPR manager in 13 months to enter the departure lounge, the west London club were left to navigate their way through this testing fixture against Reading with a novice at the controls.
- The signore in temporary charge on the sidelines, Gareth Ainsworth, ensured that the team became the first to take points off Reading at the Madejski Stadium this season thanks to stout defending.
- Yet the chances of Ainsworth turning his caretaker role into a permanent position are as slim as the supermodels on the Milan catwalk. The veteran midfielder is QPR's longest-serving player, but he has none of the star quality associated with the front-runners for the job, namely Terry Venables, former Chelsea manager Gianluca Vialli and ex-Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini.
- Irrespective of who becomes the next QPR manager, they are likely to come under untold pressure from the start. Giving a unique insight into the time frame the next incumbent will probably be working to, Mahon said: "Since the new owners have come in the expectation has gone through the roof.
- "They want success. I know Flavio said he's got a two or three-year plan, but I know he wants it [Premier League football] sooner than that because he's an ambitious man."
- Former England manager Venables would be a popular choice with supporters, having played for QPR from 1969-74 before leading them into the top-flight when manager in the Eighties. However, Briatore's demand for instant results could diminish El Tel's interest.
- The Italian multi-millionaire is used to success, having led Renault to two F1 world championships – four including the two titles won by Benetton in the Nineties – and Dowie's record of eight wins, three draws and just four losses wasn't enough to prevent his sacking.
- Talking to Steve Coppell's players, you get the feeling expectations are managed better at Reading. Midfielder Liam Rosenior said: "The likes of even AC Milan, Juventus, Real Madrid don't win every game at home and we shouldn't expect to." Telegraph
Mirror/Rory Smith - Rangers steal point from rampant Royals
Caretaker boss Gareth Ainsworth admits Flavio Briatore likes to have his say in team selection - and judging from this performance, maybe he's not doing a bad job.
The Italian has come under fire from fans after he deposed former boss Iain Dowie for not picking the team he wanted. The pair clashed over Dowie's refusal to play young Italian striker Samuel Di Carmine but there was only ever going to be one winner.
Dowie departed, Di Carmine started and Briatore's - or rather Ainsworth's - managerial career got off to a flyer with an impressive point against title-chasing Reading.
Ainsworth said: "He's put a lot of money into the club and he likes to look after his investment.
"There are discussions about certain players, not just with him but with a number of people at the club.
"It's normal, but I'm the boss and I have the final input about who goes out there and plays, and we'd never discuss strategy. I'm not going to say I'd love the job long term, but I'm looking forward to the game against Birmingham, whether I'm in charge or not, just as long as I'm at QPR."
After becoming the first manager to stop Reading scoring at the Madejski this season - prior to this dour clash they had netted 27 in just six outings - it seems certain Ainsworth will be in charge on Tuesday.
But Steve Coppell warned the rookie that he should not have to put up with having to pick his team by committee.
He said: "If I didn't choose who played, what would I do?
"I wouldn't tolerate an owner wanting to interfere. They have a right to say what they think of certain players, but I manage."
If that's what Briatore does and it turns out like this, there may be some mileage in the idea. QPR were woefully short on flair, but their cautious 4-5-1 blunted Coppell's side.
They barely mustered a clearcut chance in a tight first half, despite Jimmy Kebe lashing into the side-netting and Noel Hunt seeing Radek Cerny clutch desperately at his goalbound header.
And the visitors even found time to threaten on the counter, Di Carmine forcing a fine save from Marcus Hahnemann after a well-worked move orchestrated by the impish Dani Parejo.
And QPR grew in confidence as the game wore on.
The disappointing Akos Buzsaky stung Hahnemann's palms with a ferocious drive and Parejo should have done better when he was picked out by sub Dexter Blackstock.
Reading went close through Andre Bikey's header but could not find a way through, losing valuable ground to Wolves and Birmingham in the promotion race.
It was a result that made a strong case for Ainsworth to be given the reins long-term and take QPR forward - but if Briatore doesn't fancy that, he could always give himself a go.
HOW THEY RATED...MAN OF THE MATCH 8 DAMION STEWART
Imposing centre back was a rock at the back as QPR scrapped for every ball
Referee: C Foy 7 Mirror
Nigel Brown/Sport.co - Vine: Dowie sacking came out of the blue
- QPR striker Rowan Vine admitted the sacking of boss Iain Dowie came as a bolt from the blue when the news was delivered on Friday. Vine, who is recovering from a broken leg picked up in training in March, said none of the players expected the news and were shocked when they found out Dowie would be leaving after just 15 games in charge. "Everyone was surprised," he said. "The owners and the chairman came in and delivered the news to us at training. It was a big shock.
- "There have been various rumours about managers and players ever since I arrived at the club.
- "We don't take much notice of the papers but as far as we were concerned it came out of the blue.
- "I certainly didn't see it coming but we've just got to get on with it."
- Gareth Ainsworth has been placed in temporary charge and picked up a credible 0-0 draw away to Reading on Saturday, but speculation is mounting as to who will be next in the hot seat at Loftus Road.
- Names from former boss Terry Venebles, Millwall's Kenny Jackett and Roberto Mancini have all been linked, but there is only one man for the job as far as Vine is concerned.
- "I have heard a few rumours about Zinedine Zidane - certainly in the summer," Vine admitted. "I'd love to see him walk through the door." Sport
The Times/Kaveh Solhekol
Flavio Briatore wants to give Gareth Ainsworth his chance at QPR
- Flavio Briatore is trying to convince his business partners at Queens Park Rangers that Gareth Ainsworth should become the club’s manager until the end of the season. Ainsworth became the caretaker manager when Iain Dowie left Loftus Road on Friday and the 35-year-old player-coach was in charge for QPR’s goalless draw away to Reading on Saturday.
- “We have everything,” Briatore said. “We have the players and we have the coach. There was no argument with Iain Dowie, it was just a decision of the board because we were not happy, it’s as simple as that.”
- The former Crystal Palace manager effectively resigned when he refused to allow Briatore to pick the team for the match at the Madejski Stadium. The Italian co-owns the club with Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal and was frustrated that Dowie would not pick players such as Samuel Di Carmine and Daniel Parejo, who are there on loan.
- Dowie, who had little say over the club’s transfer policy, lost his job when he refused to drop Dexter Blackstock, the club’s leading goalscorer, and start with Di Carmine and Parejo in attack. Both players were in Ainsworth’s starting XI on Saturday.
- “There are lots of talks and discussions about players with various people at the club and of course that includes Flavio Briatore,” Ainsworth said. “He’s the chief investor and he loves taking an active part in how his investment is going.”
- Ainsworth will be in charge for QPR’s home match against Birmingham City tomorrow while his employers decide whether to keep faith with him until the end of the season. Terry Venables, Darren Ferguson, Kenny Jackett and Italian managers such as Roberto Mancini and Roberto Donadoni have been linked with the post... . The Times
Commentary - Martin Sammuel/The Times...You cannot be serious
It is an open secret that Flavio Briatore, the joint owner of Queens Park Rangers, intends to have a say in team selection. This makes the speculation on the identity of Iain Dowie’s successor meaningless. Roberto Mancini and Terry Venables have been mentioned, but no serious football man would take the job in those circumstances." The Times
BBC - Dowie's exit was a shock - Mahon
Queens Park Rangers midfielder Gavin Mahon has admitted he was surprised by boss Iain Dowie's sacking after a training session on Friday morning.
Mahon told BBC London 94.9: "Just after training (QPR co-owner) Flavio Briatore said he wanted a meeting with everyone and said that Iain's leaving.
"It was strange because the gaffer had been taking training.
"Twenty minutes later we were told by the chairman to go upstairs and have a meeting and that's where we found out."
Mahon added: "I was a little bit shocked, but I've had all sorts of things in my career.
"On a personal note I got on really well with Iain. The coaching was top drawer, well organised, everyone was fit and at times we let him down on the pitch with our performances.
"His record's decent, you can't fault it. We've got a decent cup game coming up (Manchester United in the Carling Cup fourth Round) and are in a decent position in the league.
"Everyone knows how hard this league is. I think this club has moved on a lot from last year." BBC
GUARDIAN/Mikey Stafford - Briatore makes his point as QPR draw solace at Reading- Steve Coppell welcomed Iain Dowie and his QPR team to the Madejski Stadium in his programme notes, but it was instead the caretaker manager Gareth Ainsworth he pitted his wits against.
- The veteran midfielder's managerial debut was impressive and his resolute QPR side were the first this season to leave the Madejski with a point as they held the free-scoring Reading in a hectic encounter bereft of clear goal-scoring chances.
- Speculation is rife over who will take over on a permanent basis at the Championship's wealthiest club, with Terry Venables, Roberto Mancini, Gianluca Vialli and Sam Allardyce all thought to be in the frame. On Saturday evening, with the young Italian striker Samuel Di Carmine preferred to top scorer Dexter Blackstock, it would appear that whoever does take over may have to respect the opinion of Flavio Briatore, the Renault formula one team owner and chairman of QPR. The Italian was conspicuous in the director's box during the game, and Ainsworth admitted that Briatore had also spent some time in the dressing room beforehand.
- "I would say 80% of the games he comes into the dressing room," said the former Wimbledon midfielder. "Tonight he came in for a general chat when we had just arrived at the ground."
- The 35-year-old maintained that Briatore had no input on strategy and the final team was his to name, but he did confess that the chairman "likes his input" and "says what he sees". "There are discussions about the team and discussions about players. Flavio has put a lot of money in the club and wants to know how his investments are going. Already we have made a point that we are going to be meeting regularly, not just with Flavio but with the other people who have put their money in, but I have the final input on who goes out there. He doesn't discuss the strategies but he is a winner and he loves to be involved in sport."
- Dowie may have been dismissed because of his preference for Blackstock over Di Carmine, but on Saturday it was the QPR defence that dominated proceedings. Mikele Leigertwood in particular did a fantastic job of marshalling Stephen Hunt, Reading's provider-in-chief, and despite the tireless running of Hunt's brother Noel and Kevin Doyle up front, the previously free-scoring Royals failed to create any solid chances from open play. The substitute Kalifa Cissé went closest six minutes from the end when he met Stephen Hunt's corner with a powerful header, only to see Radek Cerny dive brilliantly to his left and divert the ball away from the top corner and around the post.
- While he professed to not getting involved in the QPR "hoo-hah" before the game, as one of the most stable and autonomous managers in English football it was interesting to hear Coppell's take on Dowie's departure. "Picking a football team is not a committee decision," he said. "If I didn't pick the team what would I do?"
- Man of the match: Mikele Leigertwood - Guardian
The Sun/Paul Jiggins - Reading 0 QPR 0By PAUL JIGGINS -
IAIN DOWIE seemed to know he was a dead man walking when he took training at QPR for the final time on Friday.
- His players could tell their manager had something on his mind as he was quieter than usual. Even a bit distant maybe.
- But they had no idea of the drama that would unfold at the end of the session at the Hoops’ Harlington training ground.
- After announcing HIS team for the trip to the Madejski and giving the side their final instructions, Dowie was promptly sacked by the club’s co-owner and chairman Flavio Briatore after less than six months in the job.
- Midfielder Gavin Mahon revealed: “The first inkling I got the gaffer was going was at training on Friday when Gianni Paladini came up to me and said ‘I think he’s going’. I said ‘But he’s just taken training’.
- "Then Flavio called a meeting 20 minutes later and said ‘Yeah, the coach is no longer here. But I want everyone to stick together. I don’t want to see any down faces around the place because we’ve got an important game at Reading’.
- “I was stunned a little bit. But you could tell there was something on the gaffer’s mind or that he was feeling a bit under pressure. Once Flavio told us, we all went to see him to wish him all the best.”
- SunSport told on Saturday how Dowie was axed because he showed he could no longer stand being told what players to pick by Briatore.
- And this was seemingly backed up by Rangers’ starting XI against the Royals.
- Mahon admitted: “The gaffer had picked a side before he left and . . . er, it was sort of the same as the one that played.
- “There were a couple of changes made but I can’t mention names.
- “The lads who were told on Friday they were playing and then told before the game they were not, took it really well.”
- Briatore went into the Rangers dressing room to congratulate caretaker-boss Gareth Ainsworth and his players on becoming the first visiting side to leave the Madejski with a point this term.
- Mahon added: “I spoke to Gaz after the news was announced on Friday and he said he didn’t know whether to laugh or cry because he’s been thrown straight in at the deep end.
- “But he’s experienced. He’s gone through a lot of things in his career. I think he’ll do really well.”
- The QPR caretaker had referee Chris Foy and keeper Radek Cerny to thank for the point.
- First, Foy failed to spot Mahon’s blatant handball in the box. Then Cerny made a fabulous late save to keep out Kalifa Cisse’s header.
- Royals boss Steve Coppell said: “Ainsworth would be happy, his players played for him.
- “There was determination and steel from their back four and midfield four. They didn’t leave too much daylight.
- “They were not far from the ideal side Iain Dowie would have picked.”
SUN STAR MAN - RADEK CERNY (QPR). Keeper pulled out all the stops. The Sun
The Mirror. Alex Varney - MAHON: FLAV DID PICK THE QPR SIDE
- Gavin Mahon admits Rangers team selection was altered afterthedismissal of Iain Dowie on Friday.
- Dowie had named the starting XI before he was sacked following a row with co-owner Flavio Briatore over the line-up.
- Gareth Ainsworthwasput in temporary charge - although it certainly looked as if Briatore had the final say as fellow Italian Samuel Di Carmine was drafted in aheadofDexter Blackstock.
- "He (Dowie) had picked a sidebefore he left," revealed Mahon. "It was sort of the same as the one that played - but one or two changes were made.
- "That's football - all those ladswhoweretoldonFriday they were playing and then told before the game they were not, took it really well.
- "There were only a couple of changes made, but I can't mention names."
- Mahon was shocked to see the back of Dowie - who had guidedRangerstothe fourth roundoftheCarlingCupand left theWest London side ninthinthetable-butwants the managerial situation sorted quickly.
He said: "I was stunned a little bit. His training was very good. At times the players let him down on the pitch. But we're still in a decent league position and we'vegotManUawayinthe Carling Cup."
Despite their off field troubles Rangers became the first side to take points off Reading at the Madejski Stadium this season.
- Whether he picked the side or not caretaker boss Ainsworth seemed to have his side giving him their all.
- The hosts had plundered 27goals athome before this clashbutwerekeptquietby a defence expertly marshalled by Damion Stewart.
Reading remain third although they have slipped to six points behind leaders Birmingham.
Royals defender Liam Rosenior said: "With the formweare in it's definitely two points dropped. We created more than enough chances to score.: Mirror
