Queens Park Rangers have released their own statement following the confirmation of Michael Beale’s appointment at Ibrox.
The Londoner becomes the 18th permanent manager at Rangers FC, following on from Giovanni van Bronckhorst and prior to that Steven Gerrard who he worked under to considerable effect, paving the way for this return to Glasgow.
However, he leaves Loftus Road in acrimonious circumstances with a bitter taste left after a drawn out saga, fuelled by Beale’s own ‘loyalty’ comments having turned down the call of Premier League Wolves. It appeared from there that he committed himself to the mission for the long haul in west London but the lure of Rangers would be too strong.
This was a matter that he had previously about, having declared his aspiration to one day get the top job at Ibrox. It isn’t his fault that the day came much, much earlier than would have reasonably been anticipated even if the optics aren’t good for Beale.
QPR remained professional and to the point in their statement, underlining the collective disappointment at their club with the loss of the head coach, just as it seemed they were building something but they did chose to include a reference to the Wolves situation six weeks ago.
Les Ferdinand, QPR director of football was attributed as saying:
“The start to the season we have made, coupled with very attractive football being played, gave us cause for optimism as we looked to build on the previous three seasons.”
“That optimism remains but there is no doubt it is a blow to lose Mick so soon into his tenure.”
The R’s CEO Lee Hoos attempted to connect with the fan fury by stating:
“There is so much to play for this season and I fully appreciate fans’ frustrations right now. Your support has been incredible and the players need your backing now more than ever.”
This all comes after a not so subtle public rebuke from the chairman on Twitter, as below.
With it now accepted and expected Michael Beale will be taking the reigns at Ibrox, QPR chairman Amit Bhatia has liked the below tweet.
Announcement expected by end of Monday. pic.twitter.com/KHw8JtKgD8
— Fraser (Fletcher) Gillan (@FrazFletcher) November 26, 2022