QPR’s manager, Gareth Ainsworth, has been dismissed following a home defeat to Leicester City. After the 2-1 loss, the club announced that the 50-year-old had been relieved of his duties immediately. QPR CEO Lee Hoos expressed the difficulty of making this decision, given the respect they had for Ainsworth and his assistant, Richard Dobson. Ainsworth was highly regarded by supporters, but the team’s poor performance this season necessitated a change.
QPR had gone 12 league and cup games without a win since their victory over Cardiff on August 12, leaving them in 23rd place in the Championship, six points from safety. Ainsworth, who had previously played for the club for seven seasons between 2003 and 2010, returned as manager in February amid praise for his managerial achievements at Wycombe Wanderers over 11 years. However, his return was followed by a string of disappointing results, with the team hovering just above the relegation zone in 20th place. Ainsworth had expressed his desire to make significant changes during the summer, but a 4-0 home loss to Watford on the opening day of the season increased the pressure on him.
Despite the team’s precarious situation, QPR’s CEO, Lee Hoos, lauded Ainsworth’s work ethic, acknowledging that the decision to part ways was a painful one. Hoos expressed his gratitude for Ainsworth’s dedication, passion, and professionalism and stated that Ainsworth would always be welcome at the club. The club’s board recognized the urgency of naming a new head coach, and an announcement regarding a new manager would be made in the coming days.
The timing of this decision is intriguing, as the upcoming game against Rotherham United, who are just one point ahead of QPR in 22nd place, will be crucial for the new manager. This crucial match will be a test for the team’s ability to avoid relegation.
