News

Steve McClaren eager to get started at Queens Park Rangers

Steve McClaren is excited to get to work after being unveiled as the new manager of Queens Park Rangers.

The former England manager, who previously worked at the club in 2013, replaces Ian Holloway who left the club earlier this month.

He has signed a two-year deal at Loftus Road and is back in English football more than a year on from his ill-fated return to Derby County.

When asked about the biggest challenges in his new job, McClaren said: “I think the biggest challenge will be taking this club forward, I think it’s recovering.

“I was here five years ago and it was a good three months for me working with Harry [Redknapp]. But certainly the dressing room needed sorting out.

“The last two seasons have been very good, getting the house in order, and on the field I am excited by the squad. I think that is the attraction for me.

“That’s what I’ve missed – the coaching, the building of a team – this squad I believe is very good.

“It’s young, it’s energetic, it’s enthusiastic, got attitude, and can play football.

“So for me a perfect fit and I cannot wait to get started.”

The 57-year-old has only been at the club for a couple days and will later discuss the season’s objectives with QPR’s director of football Les Ferdinand.

McClaren, who lost to the Rs in the Championship play-off final in May 2014, replaces Holloway who departed on May 10.

He added: “The priority, of course, is winning football matches which we will try to do every game and try doing that with a certain style.

“I’m just pleased that Queens Park Rangers have given me an opportunity to come back into the game at the coaching level, and I hope in two years that we take this club forward.

“That’s the most important [thing]. That it’s in recovery, stable, and now we need to take it forward.”

McClaren will ponder over what is required to enhance the squad over the next few weeks.

Derby County players, such as striker Chris Martin, have been linked with a move to Loftus Road, but the ex-Middlesbrough boss downplayed the links.

He also talked about the difficulties QPR have faced financially which he believes have damaged their fortunes.

When asked about how the club’s budget will fare against others, McClaren added: “That will be an interesting question that needs answering over the next few days I’m sure, but everybody knows the troubles that QPR have experienced over recent years.

“Financial Fair Play, find that they had to pay, and that’s obviously taken the club backwards.

“But I’ve got to credit everybody behind the scenes – the ownership, the board, the recruitment – over the last two seasons have stabilised this club.

“Definitely, in the next year or two, it’s in a position where instead of stabilising it can go forward.”

Related Articles