Gregory axed by QPR

Monday, October 01, 2007 12:58pm

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Championship basement-dwellers Queens Park Rangers have sacked first-team coach John Gregory following their 5-1 defeat to West Bromwich Albion.

The humiliating loss leaves the west London outfit rooted to the foot of the table without a win in seven games so far this season.

Despite saving the club from relegation last season when off-the-field issues could have seen the outfit slip into administration as a result of mounting debts, Gregory has been relieved of his duties.

First-team coach Mick Harford, who has managerial experience at a number of clubs including Nottingham Forest, Luton Town and Rotherham United, has been installed as caretaker manager ahead of Wednesday's trip to Colchester United.

QPR chairman Gianni Paladini said: "The club would like to thank John for everything he has done during a difficult period as manager, in particular for saving us from relegation last season.

"However, the performances and results this season have not met with our expectations. The league table does not lie.

"The club have decided to act swiftly in time to turn things around for the remainder of the season."

Gregory's replacement will be named "in due course" according to Paladini, with a number of candidates already being linked to the job, including former Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock and ex-Wigan Athletic manager Paul Jewell.

"Everyone at QPR wants to wish John good luck and success in the future," Paladini added.

"In the meantime, Mick and the entire team are focused on achieving the club's first win of the season at Colchester."