Sky Sports detail on Beale QPR extension u-turn prior to Rangers

Michael Beale had discussed new terms with Queens Park Rangers prior to recent developments putting him on the brink of a return to Ibrox, this time as manager.

The detail was reported yesterday by Sky Sports which adds another intrguing layer to this saga, following the departure of Giovanni van Bronckhorst.

Matters of timing and circumstance have dictated actions that Beale has taken whilst his visit to watch Rangers v Aberdeen in October hasn’t gone down well in terms of the narrative, both from the perspective of QPR as well as Gio’s camp.

Added to his comments post-Wolves regarding showing loyalty to the R’s and the people around him that he brought to the West London side, it is easy to see why so many are angry with the 42-year old.

‘Sky Sports News can reveal Beale and his staff were in contract extension talks with QPR before Rangers’ interest developed.’

‘It is also understood the Championship club were aware Beale wanted to return to Ibrox as boss one day when initial talks about his appointment at QPR took place.’ 

Opportunity

The optics of Mick Beale’s move to Rangers isn’t a good look but it isn’t his fault that things have panned out exactly as they have. In hindsight, he wouldn’t have gone to the Aberdeen game with GvB under considerable pressure, even then. He will proably look back at regret that call.

After Beale spoke to, and declined the pull of Wolves it showed a maturity and understanding of his situation, as well as an acknowledgement of the cut-throa nature of the Premier League. On settling back to QPR, those thoughts of the project and loyalty were likely to have been prominent on his mind. What is more than likely, is the certainty that he was on record on his desire to take the Rangers job.

Even when he was presented to the press at boss at Loftus Road, he later spoke to Scottish journalists and repeated that aspiration one day including the “nobody says no to Glasgow Rangers” quip. If anything, Beale was too honest and upfront.

He then was a victim of circumstance with Rangers pre-World Cup awful form that led to the end for Gio. Next thing, he’s the number one choice and the amazing opportunity that he wanted one day has presented itself.

That one day may never come again so how could he say no, even if he will look back at the comments made with an element of regret.

Life is often about choices and making the most of things, even when there is risk involved. Mick Beale is no different to many of us in that way, he is being true to himself first and foremost in pursuing his ambition.