Gregory levels stark warning

John Gregory warned QPR they face "a serious relegation threat" after succeeding Gary Waddock as manager at Loftus Road.

The former Aston Villa and Derby boss has signed a contract until the end of the season with Rangers, with the option of a one-year rolling contract to follow if he does well.

Gregory takes over with Rangers bottom of the Coca-Cola Championship and out of the Carling Cup - and he urged the players to show more heart in the battles that lie ahead. "There is a serious threat of relegation at this club," Gregory said.

He added: "I saw them knocked out of the Carling Cup at Port Vale last night (Tuesday).

"Some of the players turned up - but quite a few of them did not bother going.

"Every player will have a fresh chance to impress me, and that is what they are here to do.

"I still have lots of points to prove to myself - although not to anyone else. I hope I can improve the fortunes of the team."

Waddock was relieved of his duties after meeting Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini - a close friend of Gregory - after the 3-2 defeat at Vale Park.

Waddock is to remain at Loftus Road as assistant manager after winning only three of his 24 matches in charge since replacing Ian Holloway last February.

Gregory, who played for Rangers from 1981 until 1985, returns to management three-and-a-half years after his departure from Derby following a 14-month stint at Pride Park.